As spring arrives and I start my annual spring cleaning routine, I’m making a concerted effort this year to use more natural and less harsh ingredients for cleaning my home. Here’s what I’m doing to go green with my spring cleaning.
Why Go Green?
The main reason I’m switching to more natural cleaners is to reduce my exposure to harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These ingredients are common in many conventional cleaning products and can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs. Some are also suspected endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormone function.
By choosing plant-based, non-toxic alternatives, I can avoid these concerning chemicals while still efficiently cleaning my home. Going green is better for my health and the environment.
Swap Out Harsh Chemicals
Here are some of the harsh chemicals I’m avoiding in my green spring cleaning and simple natural swaps I’m making instead:
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Bleach – I’m skipping chlorine bleach and opting for hydrogen peroxide or baking soda instead to whiten and disinfect.
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Ammonia-based glass cleaners – Rather than using Windex or other ammonia-laden glass cleaners, I’m using equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle for streak-free windows and mirrors.
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Antibacterial cleaners – With concerns over antimicrobial resistance rising, I’m switching to simple cleaning with soap and water which is sufficient for most household surfaces.
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Synthetic fragrances – Many conventional cleaners contain synthetic fragrances that can irritate lungs. I’m using cleansing products with essential oils like lemon, lavender, and tea tree for a natural, pleasant scent.
My Green Cleaning Cabinet
Here are some of my go-to natural cleaning solutions for green spring cleaning:
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Baking soda – Cleans, deodorizes, scours, and whitens without harsh chemicals.
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White vinegar -Cuts grease, removes odors, disinfects, and makes windows sparkle.
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Lemon juice – Brightens, bleaches, and disinfects naturally.
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Hydrogen peroxide – Disinfects and whitens without toxic chemicals.
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Liquid castile soap – Makes an effective natural all-purpose cleaner.
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Essential oils like lavender, lemon, and tea tree – Add antibacterial and aromatic properties.
Green Cleaning Recipes
Here are a few of the DIY green cleaning recipes I’ll be using this spring:
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/2 gallon water
- 15 drops lemon essential oil
Mix ingredients together in a bucket. Use on all washable hard surfaces.
Glass and Mirror Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/2 tsp liquid castile soap
Combine in a spray bottle. Shake before use. Spray on glass or mirrors and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
Whitening Scrub
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
- 2 tbsp liquid castile soap
Make a paste by mixing ingredients together. Gently scrub surfaces with paste and rinsed. Whitens without bleach!
Going Green Feels Great!
I’m excited to see how going green with my cleaning improves the health of my family and home this spring. With just a few simple swaps to natural ingredients, I can still get everything sparkling clean without the harsh chemicals. My lungs, skin, and environment will thank me!
