Quick house cleaning hacks and advice for a tidier residence
In today's world, many of us are seeking ways to live more sustainably and reduce our environmental impact. One area where we can make a significant difference is in our homes, where we can implement eco-friendly cleaning practices that not only help the planet but also keep our living spaces clean and fresh. Here are some effective home cleaning hacks and tips for maintaining a natural home.
Switch to Microfiber Cloths and Water
Using high-quality microfiber cloths can clean most surfaces with just water, eliminating the need for chemical cleaners. This method is non-toxic, saves money, and reduces chemical usage in your home.
Make DIY Natural Cleaners
Creating homemade cleaning solutions using simple, natural ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, mild liquid soap, and essential oils can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to store-bought cleaners. For example, a lemon vinegar cleaner (lemon wedges, water, and vinegar) serves as an all-purpose cleaner with a fresh scent.
Use Vinegar and Baking Soda Combos
This classic pair is great for deep cleaning tasks such as ovens and drains. Mixing lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda loosens stubborn stains and grime effectively without harsh chemicals.
Steam Clean Your Microwave
Boil a cup of water in the microwave to generate steam, which loosens dried-on grime, making it easy to wipe clean without harsh chemical sprays.
Maintain and Clean Cleaning Tools Regularly
Washing microfiber cloths, mop heads, vacuum filters, and kitchen sponges often keeps cleaning tools hygienic and effective while reducing waste.
Use a Window Squeegee for Streak-Free Glass Cleaning
Clean windows with warm water and soap, then squeegee dry and wipe remaining moisture with a dry cloth to avoid streaks and reduce paper towel use.
Address Spills Promptly
Keeping natural cleaning wipes handy allows you to quickly clean spills on couches, floors, and countertops, preventing stains and reducing heavy cleaning later.
Bicarb Soda and Water for Tile Grout Cleaning
Mixing bicarb soda with water forms a paste that can be used to clean tile grout effectively.
Prevent the Spread of Germs
Wiping away spills and stains with dirty equipment can spread germs around the house. Regularly cleaning your kitchen sponge or duster is essential to prevent the spread of germs.
Create a Chore Schedule
Creating a chore schedule can help you stay on top of tasks, preventing a mountain of work from piling up and relieving stress.
Deep Clean Your Kitchen Bin
Fill your kitchen bin with hot, soapy water and leave it for an hour to deep clean it once a week.
Natural Deodorisers for Bins and Rubbish Bags
Using natural deodorisers like bicarb soda, vinegar, lemon, or coffee grounds can be used in bins and rubbish bags to help soak up odours.
Cleaning for Shorter Amounts of Time, More Often
Cleaning for a shorter amount of time, but more often, can be effective in maintaining a clean home.
Use Vinegar to Restore Shower Head's Water Pressure
Soaking your shower head in a solution of vinegar for 60 minutes can help restore its water pressure.
Use a Solution of 1:1 Vinegar and Water to Wipe Windows Clean
A solution of 1:1 vinegar and water can be used to wipe windows clean, leaving them sparkling.
Keep a Microwave Squeaky Clean
A solution of equal parts vinegar and water, heated in the microwave and then wiped down, keeps a microwave squeaky clean.
Banish Built-Up Grime and Odours in a Dishwasher
Bicarb soda can be used to neutralise any remaining odours in a dishwasher and banish built-up grime.
Prevent Musty Smells in a Linen Closet
Bicarb soda can be used to prevent musty smells in a linen closet.
Get Glassware Sparkling
Soaking glassware in vinegar for 5 minutes can make them sparkle.
Lemon for Nasty Odours in a Garbage Disposal
Lemon can be used to get rid of nasty odours in a garbage disposal by cutting it up and throwing a few small slices down the disposal.
Unclog Drains
Pouring half a cup of bicarb soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar, can easily unclog drains.
Neutralise Any Remaining Odours in a Kitchen Bin
Bicarb soda can be used to absorb food odours in a kitchen bin, neutralising any remaining odours.
These tips combine natural ingredients, regular maintenance of tools, and simple daily habits to keep your home clean effectively while minimizing environmental impact and chemical exposure.
Adopting a natural lifestyle doesn't only apply to personal care products but also extends to home-and-garden cleaning. Whether it's using microfiber cloths and water, creating DIY natural cleaners, or employing classic combos like vinegar and baking soda, there are numerous eco-friendly ways to maintain a clean lifestyle at home.
