10 Sustainable Cleaning Hacks for Busy People

Keeping a clean and organized home is essential for our well-being, but it can be challenging to find the time and energy to tackle cleaning tasks, especially for busy individuals. Fortunately, there are sustainable cleaning hacks that save time, minimize the use of harsh chemicals, and reduce environmental impact.

We will share 10 detailed and practical cleaning hacks that are perfect for busy people who want to maintain a clean and eco-friendly home. These hacks are easy to implement, effective, and designed to make your cleaning routine more efficient.

Hack 1: All-Purpose Vinegar Cleaner

Vinegar is a versatile and natural cleaning agent that can be used for various surfaces in your home. Before listing the steps, let's explore the benefits and properties of vinegar as a cleaner:

Vinegar, especially white distilled vinegar, contains acetic acid with antimicrobial properties. It is effective in removing grease, grime, and mineral deposits. Vinegar is also non-toxic, affordable, and readily available, making it an excellent eco-friendly cleaning solution.

Now, let's move on to the steps for creating an all-purpose vinegar cleaner:

1. Mix equal parts of water and white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle.
2. Optional: Add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.
3. Shake the bottle to combine the ingredients.
4. Spray the solution onto surfaces like countertops, windows, and mirrors.
5. Wipe with a microfiber cloth or a reusable sponge.

Hack 2: Lemon and Baking Soda Scrub

Lemon and baking soda are natural cleaning powerhouses that can tackle tough stains and odors. Here's why they work well together. Lemon juice is acidic and acts as a natural bleaching agent, while baking soda is a gentle abrasive that helps lift stains. The combination of these two ingredients creates an effective scrub for various surfaces.

To create a lemon and baking soda scrub, follow these steps:

1. Cut a lemon in half and dip it in baking soda.
2. Scrub the stained area using the lemon, applying gentle pressure.
3. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe away the residue with a damp cloth or sponge.
5. Rinse the surface with water.

Hack 3: DIY Air Freshener with Essential Oils

Commercial air fresheners often contain harmful chemicals and synthetic fragrances. Creating your own DIY air freshener with essential oils is a sustainable and safer alternative. Essential oils have natural aromas that can freshen up your home while providing therapeutic benefits. They are derived from plants and offer a wide range of scents to suit your preferences.

To make a DIY air freshener, follow these steps:

1. Fill a spray bottle with distilled water.
2. Add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil or a combination of oils.
3. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients.
4. Spray the solution in your home, focusing on areas that need a refresh.
5. Enjoy the natural scent.

Hack 4: Eco-Friendly Window Cleaner

Commercial window cleaners often contain harsh chemicals and contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution. Creating your own eco-friendly window cleaner is a sustainable option. Vinegar and water are the main ingredients for an effective eco-friendly window cleaner. Vinegar cuts through grime and streaks, leaving your windows clean and shiny.

To make an eco-friendly window cleaner, follow these easy and simple steps:

1. Mix equal parts of water and white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution onto the windows.
3. Wipe the windows with a microfiber cloth or a newspaper.

Remember, let the solution sit for stubborn stains for a few minutes before wiping.

Hack 5: Natural Oven Cleaner

Cleaning the oven can be daunting, but you don't need harsh chemicals to get the job done. Baking soda and vinegar work together to remove grease, baked-on food, and odors from your oven. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive, while vinegar helps to break down grime and neutralize odors.

Here's a natural and effective oven cleaner recipe:

1. Sprinkle baking soda on the interior surfaces of your oven.
2. Spray or drizzle vinegar over the baking soda.
3. Let the mixture sit for several hours or overnight.
4. Scrub the oven using a sponge or a scrub brush.
5. Wipe away the residue with a damp cloth.
6. Rinse the surface thoroughly.

Hack 6: Reusable Cleaning Cloths

Disposable cleaning wipes and paper towels are not environmentally friendly and contribute to waste. Using reusable cleaning cloths is a sustainable alternative that saves money and reduces waste.

Invest in a set of reusable cleaning cloths made from microfiber or natural fibers like cotton or bamboo. These cloths are highly absorbent and can be used for various cleaning tasks. After use, simply wash and reuse them, reducing the need for disposable cleaning materials.

Hack 7: Natural Drain Cleaner

Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and harmful to the environment. Instead, opt for a natural and eco-friendly drain cleaner. Here's a simple recipe:

Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar. Pour the mixture into the drain and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, flush the drain with hot water. The baking soda and vinegar react to create a foaming action that helps remove clogs and deodorize the drain.

Hack 8: DIY Multipurpose Cleaner

Creating your own DIY multipurpose cleaner is a sustainable and cost-effective option. You can customize the scent and avoid harsh chemicals. Here's a basic recipe:

1. Fill a spray bottle with water.
2. Add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid castile soap.
3. Optional: Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.
4. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients.
5. Use the solution to clean various surfaces like countertops, appliances, and furniture.

Hack 9: Natural Carpet Freshener

Commercial carpet fresheners often contain artificial fragrances and chemicals. Creating your own natural carpet freshener is a sustainable and safer choice. Here's how:

Mix 1 cup of baking soda in a container with 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Next, shake the mixture to distribute the essential oil evenly. Following this, you can then sprinkle the mixture over your carpet.

Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes to absorb odors. Once this is complete, vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove the baking soda.

Hack 10: Green Laundry Practices

Practicing green laundry habits can minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability. Here are some tips.

• Wash Clothes in Cold Water: Heating water accounts for significant energy use during laundry. Washing your clothes in cold water can save energy and still achieve clean results.
• Use Eco-Friendly Detergents: Look for laundry detergents that are labeled as eco-friendly or made from natural ingredients. These options are less harmful to the environment. Tru Earth’s eco-friendly laundry detergent strips are a great choice to live sustainably.

• Air Dry When Possible: Whenever feasible, air dry your clothes instead of using the dryer. This saves energy and extends the life of your garments.
• Opt for Sustainable Stain Removers: Choose stain removers that are eco-friendly and free from harsh chemicals. There are many natural options available that effectively remove stains.

Stay Sustainable!

Maintaining a clean and sustainable home can be manageable, even for busy individuals. By implementing these 10 sustainable cleaning hacks, you can save time, reduce your environmental impact, and create a healthier living environment. Remember, small changes can make a significant difference.

So, embrace these eco-friendly practices and enjoy the benefits of a clean and sustainable home. Remember, sustainability is a journey and every step counts!