Week 8: #Waves4Change 2020 Sustainability Challenge – Homemade Cleaner
Guest Post by Pembroke Strickland, DLDT Associate Board Member
Why Take This Challenge?
Chemicals used in household cleaners can help to keep your living space clean but can also have harmful effects on your health and the environment if used or disposed of improperly – hence the warning label on most cleaning products. Fortunately, there are plenty of do it yourself (DIY) cleaning products that don’t include any toxic chemicals or warning labels. DIY can sometimes be intimidating, but not when it comes to homemade cleaners! With baking soda, vinegar, water and essential oils (optional for scent) you can create an all-purpose cleaner that can rival store-bought alternatives.
How Does This Challenge Benefit Me?
No need for face masks, safety glasses or rubber gloves – your homemade cleaners can be used without worrying about hidden toxic chemicals. You can also save money and time by making your cleaners in bulk. And let’s be honest, it feels good to be crafty!
What If I Already Do This?
Go beyond the all-purpose cleaner and replace all products with homemade alternatives. You can also share a cleaning formula with a friend and encourage them to do the same.
Prep This Weekend for a More Sustainable Week
Look up some DIY cleaning blogs for easy recipes. Then you can check your pantry and figure out what essentials you need – you probably already have most of them! If possible, do your shopping at a wholesale club (Costco, Sam’s Clube or BJ’s) to save some money by buying products in bulk.
FAQ:
Where can I find DIY blogs?
Here are three blog posts that provide a great starting point. There are plenty more that can be found through a simple internet search for “DIY non-toxic cleaning products.”
https://wellnessmama.com/6244/natural-cleaning/
https://naturesnurtureblog.com/non-toxic-household-cleaners/
https://keeperofthehome.org/homemade-all-natural-cleaning-recipes/
Taking this challenge? Spread the word and use the hashtag #Waves4Change so we can change the world together and inspire others to live better.