As we ask that the fundamental question, "Is it really Green?" SUDS brings you along as we delve deeper into green cleaning products. Green is the new black. It seems nowadays every product is labeled “green and eco-friendly”. Many who self- proclaim to be green products are not even “light” green. Don’t be misguided by overzealous GREEN advertisers into buying green cleaning products that are no more than a big load of “dirty laundry”.

The recent trend of green products has now become the new symbol in leading a healthy lifestyle. The problem we face with “old” cleaning agents is the damage it does to our health and the environment.

For example, chlorine bleach products have been known to cause respiratory problems with adults, children, and pets. Not to mention, when released in the water supply its reaction can create toxins and dioxins that are linked to cancer and low sperm count. Also, there are chlorine by-products that can wreak havoc on wildlife by causing mutations, sterility and even extinction of certain species. According to Beach (1998), "the ozone depletion directly related to global warming, all of which are directly related to chlorine bleach." WOW! Who knew something we have been using for years could cause such harm? However, just like anything, it also has its positive uses and causes most of which are already known. But education is key and proper use in moderation is even more important.

Green products are promoted to be healthier and safer for the environment but it takes more than slapping on the "green label" to make that claim. As a matter of fact, there are some cleaning products on the market claiming you can actually drink or eat them. I have even had someone demonstrate that to me. Let's think along these lines and look at some basic foods or ingredients found in your pantry, which can double as cleaning products for those days when SUDS is not around. For a green cleaning appointment, click here.

 

Vinegar:

Use equals parts of water and vinegar to clean windows.

Mix 1⁄2 cup of olive oil, 1⁄2 cup of vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water and it can be used to clean wood paneling.

Deodorize – 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of white distilled vinegar, 1 cup of water, and a few drops of eucalyptus oil makes a great spray to freshen the air. (I personally love this)

Salt:

Mix salt with a dab of dish soap to clean stained cups.

Mix salt and soda water to wipe out and deodorize the
inside of your fridge. This prevents you from using
chemicals around your food.

Mix salt with hot water and pour down the kitchen sink
to keep grease from building up.

Lemons:

Use lemon and salt to clean discolored brass. Always do a small test spot before starting and be careful with antiques.

Lemon juice is great for cleaning cutting boards and helps kill germs.

Pouring a gallon of hot water with a 1⁄2 cup of lemon juice down your garbage disposal will help sanitize it.

Olive Oil:

Use olive oil to remove paint and other sticky substances.   

Use it to polish wood.

It can also be used to polish metal.

Club Soda:

Use it to water your indoor and outdoor plants. 

Removes grease stains. Pour on stain and scrub gently. 

Soak your diamonds, emeralds, and rubies for a bright sheen. An overnight soak will get the job done.

Eucalyptus Oil:

Spray eucalyptus oil on your mattress and sheets. It is a deterrent for dust mites.

Spot clean stains on carpets.

Use as a natural spray deodorizer.

These are just a few GREEN tips that we wanted to share with you! Why spend double the money on “green” cleaning products when you can use what you have in your own kitchen? We do encourage everyone to live a Greener lifestyle.





References:
Beach, Emily. "The Effects of Chlorine Bleach on the Environment." Livestrong.com. N.p., 24 Aug. 2010. Web.

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