Back to Basics

 

Written by Jenny Catton

 

From detergents and polishes to antibacterial wipes and sprays, the average modern home is full of a myriad of different cleaning products. The problem is that these tend to be full of chemicals which can be harmful for the environment and not too great for our bodies either. Many people find that they suffer from headaches, tiredness or even skin rashes after using mass-produced chemical products. In addition, many are unsustainable being made from petrochemicals and can contaminate our water systems when they are washed down the plug hole.

 

But don’t worry – there are plenty of natural ways to keep your home looking and smelling great whilst being healthy, cheap and environmentally-friendly. Here are some ideas:

 

Vinegar
White distilled vinegar can be used for everything from cleaning kitchen surfaces to removing mildew from your shower curtain.

 

Bicarbonate of soda
A small bowl of bicarbonate of soda placed in your fridge will keep it smelling fresh.

 

Lemon juice
Lemon juice is ideal for removing stains from various surfaces including worktops and white linen.

 

Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil with antibacterial properties, making it ideal for a wide range of uses around the home. It’s particularly good for dealing with mould.

 

Soap Nuts
If you’re looking for a natural, chemical-free alternative to laundry detergents, try soapnuts. They’re made from dried fruit shells and as well as being environmentally-friendly, they’re also great for allergy sufferers who may find traditional detergents too harsh.

 

For ideas and tips for creating an environmentally-friendly household, visit: www.thedailygreen.com

 

Categories: antibacterial, detergents, environmentally, environmentally friendly, friendly, Home, lemon juice, nbsp, tea tree, tree oil

How Planet-friendly is Your Kitchen?

Written by Jenny Catton

 

If you’re trying to be more ecologically aware at home, then the kitchen is a good place to start. Of all the rooms in your house, the kitchen is perhaps the one where you can make the most changes. From electrical equipment to detergents, there are plenty of ways to turn your kitchen from an eco-disaster zone into a planet-friendly space.

 

Here are some ideas:

 

Oven

Avoid heating up the oven just for one small dish. Instead, cook several things at once to make the most of the heat created.

 

Fridge

Fridges are most energy-efficient when they are full or nearly full. So if your fridge is looking a bit bear try filling empty shelves with cans or bottles that you might have stored elsewhere. Alternatively, fill pitchers of water to fill the space and you’ll have easy access to a cold glass of water anytime.

 

Dishwasher

Only turn your dishwasher on once it is full. Running half loads is incredibly inefficient. Check that your detergent is eco-friendly and when buying a new dishwasher (or washing machine), choose an energy-efficient model.

 

Recycling

Pretty much all kitchen waste from tin cans to plastic bottles can now be recycled. Keep recycling bins to hand so that you remember to recycle as much as possible. If you have a garden, you might want to invest in a mini composter for your fruit and vegetable peelings.

 

For more ways to reduce your carbon footprint around the home, visit carbonfootprint.com

Categories: Bottles, dishwasher, energy efficient, friendly, kitchen, nbsp, planet friendly