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dryer balls
GARRETT DIETZ
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toothbrush
38 wnrmag.com
Spring sunshine means the start of longer, warmer days. For many of us, it also illuminates the clutter that has settled into our homes during the cold winter months. If seeing dust particles dance through early spring sunbeams isn’t your definition of a good time, this article is for you. Make your spring cleaning more sustainable and dive into the joys of a cleaner, greener home in six easy steps. 1. Repurpose household items Most people overlook household essentials with secret double identities as cleaning products. Remember that worn-down toothbrush? It’s perfect for cleaning shoes, grout or other small, detailed objects. You can give old towels and T-shirts a second life as cleaning rags. And you can reuse those online shopping boxes you’ve saved since the holidays as storage containers. 2. Find sustainable alternatives to disposal Buy reusable mop heads, dryer balls and other long-term cleaning tools to prevent waste. Cleaning is about removing the junk around your home — don’t create more waste by purchasing single-use items. Also, consider donating items like gently used clothes, toys, tools or cutlery. Your donations divert waste from Wisconsin’s landfills and help provide affordable items for members of your community. 3. Try something new Reduce chemical use by incorporating nontoxic and contemporary cleaning methods into your repertoire. Simple substitutes include vinegar, which can kill E. coli and salmonella; hydrogen peroxide, which sanitizes, disinfects and deodorizes; baking soda, which doesn’t scratch surfaces; and castile soap, which lifts dirt and grime. 4. Use natural scent-makers Ditch the floral candles and pine-scented plug-ins and add the real deal to your living spaces. Fresh-cut boughs, potted plants, flowers and citrus slices are all-natural (and compostable) ways to make your home smell fresh all year. You can even make a simmer pot with citrus or cinnamon to take it to the next level! 5. Swap responsibly For most messes, some combination of soap, water, baking soda or vinegar usually does the trick. But sometimes, extra-stubborn stains need industrial-strength solutions. It’s OK to use traditional cleaning products when needed, but know how to store, use and dispose of them. Which leads us to our final tip …