Creating a greener and effectively safer home is just as important as what we eat, our beauty regimes and how we think. Our homes aren't safe and clean if the air we are breathing in are polluted with chemicals from common household cleaners. Below is a list adapted from the Environmental Working Group's website (www.ewg.org) - follow these and protect your health while you clean your home:
1. Less is More
Dilute your cleaning products according to instructions and use only what is needed.
2. Open the window
Clean with the windows and doors open so you don't trap air pollution inside your home. Yes even in winter, perhaps leave the house after you clean, go for a walk or the like, so you don't have to sit in an ice box.
3. Use gloves and other precautions
Cleaning chemicals may harm or penetrate the skin and eyes - so check the labels and wear rubber gloves as often as possible.
4. Avoid "Antibacterial"
If you are generally healthy, there is no need to use potentially toxic 'antibacterial' products. Wash your hands with plain soap and water.
5. Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar or other acids
These combinations can produce deadly gases!
6. Try Natural Alternatives
This is my favourite. Experiment with non-toxic options. Vinegar and Baking Soda are key stable natural ingredients that kill a wide range of nasties.
7. Take Care with pine and citrus oil cleaners
Avoid using these cleaners especially on smoggy days, when the ingredients can react with ozone to produce cancer-causing formaldehyde.
8. Skip the biggest hazards
Avoid air fresheners, use baking soda and water paste to clean the oven and tackle toilet stains, and use a mechanical snake to unclog the drain.
9. Beware of the Dark
Dark little hiding spots combined with moisture are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria and mould, so try keep rooms well ventilated and clean.
10. Don't be fooled by Labels
Always check the labels ingredients as many companies can trick us into believing they are eco-friendly, but in actual fact are not.
Here is for a happy safe and clean home :)
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