Green Challenge #8 – Green Cleaning

Sorry for the delay on the Green Challenge everyone! I’ve been super busy lately with traveling, work, etc. that I didn’t have time to write up a Green post, but now here I am!

June’s challenge is all about green cleaning!

(source)

I’ve been wanting to do this for a while, since I’ve always believed that environmentally friendly cleaning products are way better for the environment then the toxic cleaning products we’re used to using. The biggest dilemma I’ve had with switching over is the cost! We all know that green products are always more expensive than the conventional, and I have a bunch of cleaning products already that are not green, and I don’t feel the need to waste them by throwing them out, which in itself is probably not great for the environment.  So over the next few months, instead of buying new conventional cleaning products, I’m going to be making my own! I think in the end this will be cheaper anyway.

According to the Environmetal Protection Agency, conventional cleaning products “may contain chemicals associated with eye, skin, or respiratory irritation, or other human health issues. Additionally, the concentrated forms of some commercial cleaning products are classified as hazardous, creating potential handling, storage, and disposal issues for users. “

All the more reason to switch, no?

You may have some ingredients for natural cleaning products lying around your house. According to OrganizedHome.com, the following can be used to make them:

• Baking Soda (scouring powders)
• Rubbing Alcohol (base for an evaporating cleaners)
• White Vinegar and Water (cleaning sprays)
• Olive Oil and Lemon Juice (furniture polish)

You can also find some more ingredients here.

So from June 4, 2011 to June 4, 2012 I will no longer be purchasing conventional cleaning products! I will be making my own or shelling out the cash for the eco-friendly kind!

Leave a comment telling me: Do you use home made cleaning products? Do you have a recipe to share? Let me know!!!