December 31, 2024 | Sustainable Home Tips
10 sustainable spring cleaning reminders you always forget
Spring cleaning is often a cathartic ritual, but amidst the flurry of dusting and decluttering, some essential tasks tend to slip through the cracks. From neglected filters to overlooked appliances, let’s uncover 10 spring cleaning reminders that are easy to forget. If you want tips on how to tackle sustainably, you’ve come to the right place!
- Replace Air Filters:
- Reminder: When was the last time you changed your HVAC filters? Clogged filters impair air quality and energy efficiency.
- Sustainable Tip: Opt for reusable air filters that can be washed and reused, reducing waste from disposable filters.
- Deep Clean the Oven:
- Reminder: The oven is often overlooked until spills and grime become a stubborn problem.
- Sustainable Tip: Use a homemade oven cleaner with natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, avoiding harsh chemicals that harm the environment.
- Clean Behind Appliances:
- Reminder: Dust and debris accumulate behind refrigerators, washers, and dryers, affecting appliance efficiency.
- Sustainable Tip: Unplug appliances before cleaning to save energy and use a vacuum with a long attachment to reach tight spaces without wasting disposable wipes.
- Wash Pillows and Bedding:
- Reminder: Pillows harbor dust mites and bacteria, impacting sleep quality and hygiene.
- Sustainable Tip: Wash pillows with eco-friendly detergent and consider using pillow protectors made from organic materials to prolong their lifespan.
- Descale Faucets and Showerheads:
- Reminder: Mineral deposits accumulate over time, reducing water flow and compromising cleanliness.
- Sustainable Tip: Soak faucets and showerheads in a solution of vinegar and water to dissolve mineral buildup, conserving water and avoiding chemical cleaners.
- Clean Refrigerator Coils:
- Reminder: Dust accumulation on refrigerator coils forces the appliance to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption.
- Sustainable Tip: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently clean refrigerator coils, improving efficiency and reducing energy usage.
- Wipe Down Light Fixtures:
- Reminder: Dust and grime on light fixtures not only dim illumination but also pose fire hazards.
- Sustainable Tip: Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs that last longer and consume less electricity, reducing waste from frequent bulb replacements.
- Dust and Vacuum Lampshades:
- Reminder: Lampshades trap dust and allergens, affecting air quality and aesthetics.
- Sustainable Tip: Use a microfiber cloth or duster to clean lampshades, minimizing the need for disposable cleaning products.
- Inspect and Clean Gutters:
- Reminder: Clogged gutters lead to water damage and pest infestations, especially during spring rains.
- Sustainable Tip: Collect debris from gutters and compost organic matter instead of discarding it, promoting soil health and reducing landfill waste.
- Refresh Mattresses:
- Reminder: Mattresses accumulate sweat, dust mites, and stains over time, impacting sleep hygiene.
- Sustainable Tip: Sprinkle baking soda on mattresses to neutralize odors, then vacuum thoroughly and air out in sunlight for natural disinfection.
This spring, let’s tackle our cleaning tasks with renewed vigor, ensuring no corner goes unnoticed. By incorporating sustainable practices into our cleaning routines, we not only create healthier living environments but also contribute to a greener planet. Let’s embrace these often-forgotten spring cleaning reminders, making our homes shine with eco-consciousness and cleanliness. And hey, if it’s not for you, no shame! Throw it on your home wishlist and team up with your neighbors for a group deal on home cleaning services!