In an ever more environmentalist world, people are searching for solutions to minimize waste and live sustainably. One such shift is in household cleaning. Typical cleaning routines contain single-use products in plastic packaging and chemical solutions that are environmentally harmful and create landfill waste. But with a few easy swaps, you can easily transition to a zero waste cleaning routine that’s effective and green.
Zero-waste cleaning involves minimizing waste with reusable, biodegradable and natural products. This lowers your environmental footprint, saves you money and makes a healthier home. From making your own cleaning solutions to choosing sustainable tools, there are tons of ways to go zero waste with cleaning.
We break down six easy swaps to create a zero-waste cleaning routine in this handy guide. These tips include DIY cleaning solutions, reusable tools and sustainable habits. By the end, you should have all the knowledge & motivation to make your cleaning a zero waste practice. Let’s dive in!
1. Switch single use Products for Reusable Alternatives
Simple ways to reduce waste in cleaning: Swap out single-use products for reusable ones. Disposables like paper towels, sponges and cleaning wipes are landfill waste and often come in plastic bags.
Rather than paper towels, use reusable microfiber clothes or cotton towels. These can be washed and used several times – more sustainable. For scrubbing, use a natural bristles brush or a resuscitated scrub pad made of coconut fiber or recycled plastic.
Another swap is using reusable cleaning cloths instead of disposable cleansing wipes. Make your own by cutting up T-shirts or towels or buy reusable cloths for cleaning. Spray your cleaning solution onto a cloth, wipe down surfaces and then put the cloth in the wash.
Make the swaps below to reduce waste and create a greener cleaning routine.
2. Make Your Own Cleaning Solutions
Making your own cleaning solutions is another key to a zero waste cleaning routine. Store-bought cleaners come in plastic bottles and contain harmful chemicals. Making your own solutions saves plastic waste and avoids harmful ingredients.
Start with a simple all-purpose cleaner containing equal parts water & white vinegar. A few drops of your favorite essential oil – lemon or tea tree – will give your space a clean scent and cleaning power. Store solution in a clear reusable glass spray bottle.
Make a paste of baking soda and water for scrubbing tasks. Use this mild abrasive on sinks, tubs and stovetops. Use hydrogen peroxide or water diluted in rubbing alcohol as a natural disinfectant.
Making your own cleaning solutions reduces waste, saves money and makes a healthier house.
3. Choose Sustainable Cleaning Tools
Beyond reusable cloths and DIY solutions, sustainable cleaning tools are also necessary for a zero waste routine. Look for tools manufactured from natural, biodegradable or recycled material.
Take for example a wooden scrub brush made of natural bristles versus a plastic one. They’re tough, biodegradable & good for scrubbing surfaces. One other option is a silicone scrubber that lasts and can be cleaned.
For mopping use a mop with a reusable, washable pad instead of disposable pads. Or use a string mop with bucket & wringer – these will last years if maintained properly.
Choosing sustainable cleaning tools means fewer disposable products and a greener cleaning routine.
4. Reduce Packaging Waste
Packaging waste is a major source of landfill waste – particularly cleaning products. Most store bought cleaners come in plastic bottles, spray cans or single-use pods.
Buy bulk cleaning ingredients to reduce packaging waste. Many stores have bulk sections where you buy baking soda, vinegar and castile soap in your own reusable containers. So you save plastic waste & money too!
Or choose products with minimal or compostable packaging. Find brands that use cardboard, glass or any other sustainable materials instead of plastic.
You can start reducing packaging waste today.
5. Adopt Zero-Waste Cleaning Habits
Use reusable products and make your own solutions – but zero-waste cleaning is also important for a sustainable routine. Consider some habits:
Get it cleaned often to keep grime and dirt from building up. A little effort each day will save you time and effort down the road.
Use water sensibly – turn off of the tap if not in use – and also make use of a bucket instead of using water for mopping.
Old items work well as cleaners. As an example, old toothbrushes can be used to scrub little areas or old socks can be used as dusting mitts.
So develop these habits for a more sustainable and efficient cleaning routine.
6. Maintain and Repair Cleaning Tools
And finally, don’t forget about repairing and maintaining your zero-waste cleaning tools. Throw away old tools – repair or recycle them.
Suppose a mop handle breaks – fix it with glue or tape instead of buying a new one – and then go buy another one. If a scrub brush loses its bristles, replace just the head instead of the entire brush.
Take care of your cleaning tools and extend their life to save money and reduce waste.
Conclusion
Moving to a zero waste cleaning routine need not be difficult or overwhelming. By making simple swaps like using reusable products, making your own cleaning solutions and adopting sustainable habits you can reduce waste and create a healthier, more eco-friendly home.
How to choose sustainable tools, reduce packaging waste & maintain your cleaning supplies: these tips for a zero-waste clean. Following these practices will make your home cleaner and more sustainable.
So next time you reach for that cleaning product, swap it for a zero waste swap. With the info & suggestions in this guidebook, you could make your home cleaner, sustainable and greener.
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