As we continue to make changes to many of our habits - recycling and composting more, eliminating paper products like coffee filters and paper napkins, and just being more thoughtful before we buy - there is always more to learn. We consider it a fun challenge.

We’ve been slowly shifting to a more “green” cleaning routine, and to follow-up on our speed-clean checklist from yesterday, a breakdown of the products we use seemed timely, in addition to shifts we’re making to make our routine more eco-friendly.

• All-purpose Cleaner: We like Method’s Pink Grapefruit all-purpose cleaner, but have begun shifting to a 1 part vinegar to 1 part water solution for surfaces in the Kitchen and Bathroom. From time to time we will sprinkle the counter with baking soda and then scrub with half a lemon. Wipe down with a damp cloth and your kitchen smells refreshingly clean!
• Furniture Cleaner: We like Method’s Wood for Good Surface Cleaner, but use it sparingly. Whenever possible we dust with a microfiber cloth that we then throw in the wash.
• Laundry Detergent: Arm & Hammer Liquid Laundry Detergent, Perfume & Dye Free (so it’s safe for baby, too!) Arm & Hammer’s website has a fun tool to learn how to use baking soda for cleaning around your home.
• Dryer Sheets: None! These are not safe to use on infant clothing, and they leave a chemical residue behind in your clothing.
• Dishes: 7th Generation dishwasher and dish soap; Additionally, we’ll run an empty dishwasher with a bowl of vinegar every once in awhile to disinfect.
• Glass Cleaner: Mrs. Meyer’s Window Spray (for mirrors and windows)
• Toilet: 7th Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner; I also use straight vinegar occasionally
• Tub: Vinegar does wonders. Wipe down the grout and tub, let it sit for several minutes and then rinse.
• Mop: Cassabella mop uses washable microfiber mop refills.
• Garbage Disposal: When we use lemons in cooking, we’ll run a small piece of it through the disposal, which smells great. Baking soda is also a great way to clear out the gunk.

We’re stocking up more on vinegar, baking soda, and lemons for our cleaning needs, in addition to dishrags instead of sponges and microfiber cloths in place of paper towels. The most important point in all of this is that we are still learning and trying new things. As we learn more about a company or product, we may use up we what we have and try something new.

Thoughts? Ideas? Questions?

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