The pulp and paper industry is the third largest producer of global warming pollution in the world, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council. In comparison to paper towels, cloth is reusable, washable, and often biodegradable when it comes time to replace it. You can even use your old clothes that are too worn to donate as cloth for cleaning purposes. Mirrors and windows will be streak and lint-free when using lint-free cloth and a non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner. A cheap non-toxic formula for streak-free glass surfaces: 1 part water, 1 part distilled white vinegar, 2-5 drops dish soap. Put contents in a spray bottle and wipe.
Use cleaners and personal care products that are safe for people, animals, and the environment
Many chemicals in household cleaning products, such as alkalies, acids, and detergents, can cause health problems, decrease air quality, and harm the environment. For instance, fragrances can impact the human endocrine system, and phosphates in detergents contribute to algal blooms which degrade the Chesapeake Bay.
Green cleaning product lines can be found at your local natural food store or at most grocery stores. Look for seals such as Green Guard, Green Seal, and Green Clean Institute that help to ensure product safety. You can also make your own green cleaning solutions from safe and cheap household products such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and natural soaps. Learn more from our Tips for Green Leaders Natural Household Cleaners Fact Sheet, or read this article about reducing hazardous products in the home.
Many personal care products, such as lotions, soaps, hair spray, and make-up, have health risks and negative environmental impacts. To reduce these impacts, you can use fewer products, make your own products, check out ingredient labels, buy organic, avoid fragrances and dyes, and go easy on the antibacterial products. While sunscreen is an important product for avoiding skin cancer, it may contain chemicals with health risks. Limit your use of sunscreen by covering your skin with cool clothing in the summer, wearing a hat, and staying under an umbrella in the sun. Learn more about choosing safe personal care products.
Reduce washing machine and dishwasher use by at least one load per week by washing full loads only
Washing full loads of laundry and dishes reduces the number of loads that need to be washed each week. To save even more water when washing the dishes, use the “water efficient” or “light load” mode when running the dishwasher.
Soak dishes instead of washing them under running water
Instead of leaving your water running while scrubbing each dish, allow your dishes to soak in your sink or a washing basin filled with hot soapy water. You can do any scrubbing required using the water in the sink, and your dishes will only need a quick rinse at the end. Also, make sure to use biodegradable, phosphate-free soap.
Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator instead of using running water
Defrosting frozen foods with running water can waste 50 to 150 gallons of water a month. Instead, place them in the refrigerator overnight or thaw in the microwave.
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