Spring cleaning is one of the highlights of spring. It’s a time to declutter and freshen up spaces as soon as birds hatch and flowers bloom.
Most would agree that spring cleaning is one of the hotly anticipated events as September comes to a close.
The custom revolves around breathing new life into your home and getting a fresh start. While slowly doing away with or reusing those unwanted items, you inevitably reduce future stress and anxiety.
The season almost feels incomplete without spring cleaning as it has become an annual activity to stimulate new beginnings.
You might regret it when summer comes around, and it’s not ticked-off your checklist.
But have you ever thought of taking your spring cleaning up a notch by making it all the more meaningful? Embrace the sustainable way of spring cleaning and get the job done minus the guilt.
You see, our current environmental concerns and an unfortunate amount of carbon in the atmosphere is encouraging many to join the eco-cleaning movement.
So, why not hop aboard the sustainability train for a better planet?
Brace yourselves for some sustainable spring cleaning tips that you can take advantage of. A greener spring cleaning routine will become have your home in full bloom.
Do away with non-recyclable items
Going for the low cost and zero-waste approach is the easiest way to make decisions when it comes to deciding on which cleaning products to use.
First of all, why go for a cleaning service when you can save more by doing it on your own or with your loved ones, all while having some productive bonding time and jamming out to some golden oldies?
During your spring cleaning bonanza, you can also refrain from going over budget by either rejecting single-use items or reducing the amount of waste you produce in your cleaning process.
A perfect example that contributes to unnecessary waste is paper towels. (However, switching to bamboo eliminates this problem.) Do the environment a favour by opting for washable cleaning cloths. Note that cleaning wipes also do not belong in your household recycling and are one of the worst household rubbish items that end up in landfills.
Speaking of landfills, did you know that landfill sites are rife with environmental hazards such as toxins, leachate, and greenhouse gases?
Avoid purchasing any cleaning agents in plastic containers that will further contribute to unnecessary waste. Better keep an eye on those cleaning materials that contain plastic.
Now, if you’re going to shop anyway, shop for sustainable, earth-friendly products. There are containers made from recycled material with environmentally friendly packaging — they’re either not too costly or will save you money in the long run.
Natural home-made cleaners
We mentioned parting with cleaning agents sold in plastic containers.
Here are a handful of DIY cleaning solutions that serve as multi-purpose cleaners so you can do away with those pesky plastics.
One of the most popular natural homemade cleaners is lemon, as it serves as an antiseptic and antibacterial agent.
- Dip one half of a lemon into baking powder for shiny copper pans and pots (or anything stainless steel).
- For stovetops, microwaves, and other small appliances – marinate the lemon peel in white vinegar for a couple of days.
- For cutting boards – 1/2 lemon can be rubbed onto the surface of the cutting board.
- Stains on plastic containers? – lemon juice can be mixed with baking soda to make a paste that can be used to scrub.
Now, what if you’re experiencing some tough moulds that need targeting? Here’s how you can maximise the vinegar that’s been hiding out in your kitchen cupboards.
- For stubborn mould and mildew in your bathroom – soak for a few hours in vinegar and scrub away. If that doesn’t work, mix vinegar with baking soda in a bit of water to make a paste and use it as a gentle abrasive.
- For streak-free mirrors and windows – try using some vinegar with a bit of recycled newspaper.
- For an all-purpose floor mopping solution – mix vinegar and water in equal amounts.
As an FYI – the effects of mould on the body can be grave. Exposure to dampness and mould is responsible for an estimated 4.6 million asthma cases in the United States. That said, you can still utilise natural homemade remedies and decrease your carbon footprint at the same time.
Creative wardrobe decluttering
It feels a bit lacklustre if your wardrobe is not given the same amount of attention during spring cleaning. Yes, some old clothing might be hard to dispose of. But where there’s a will (for the sake of sustainability), there must be a way.
Remember the reusable cloths that are an excellent substitute for non-recyclables, such as wet wipes and paper towels? Well, how about converting those old T-shirts you’d rather throw away to nice-looking rags?
Of course, if you don’t have time to sew, you can still help those in need by donating your old clothes to charity. Think of fun, creative ways to get your whole neighbourhood together for a good cause.
Look for active organisations in your community, and you can easily go zero-waste without disposing of those pre-loved clothes.
You might even be able to sell some items in good condition via Facebook marketplace or a resale website like Poshmark.
Sharing spring cleaning success
Don’t you forget — eco-friendly and economical products are now the key ingredient of any sustainable home. Going green and looking out for the environment should definitely be on your cleaning bucket list (get it?)
Sustainable spring cleaning has become a necessity so we can look out for the generations to come.
Think of inspiring others to do the same and ignite that sustainable spring cleaning spirit. Get your family involved or host a clothing swap with friends.
Let others know that you care and post your inspiring content on social media. Use hashtags in your posts or even add your two cents to the list of zero-waste or eco-friendly hacks on TikTok.
May this year’s spring clean awaken greener habits and an organised, clean home.
