Go Green As You Spring Clean

According to Amy Singleton, McCreary County Extension Family & Consumer Science Agent, now that warmer temperatures are on the way, it is a good time to take inventory and make plans to go green for your annual spring cleaning.  She suggests one way to go green is to make or purchase and use green cleaning products.

Green cleaning products are safer for humans and the environment.  According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air in our homes is usually more polluted than the air outside.  By using green cleaning products, home air quality can be greatly improved.

Some of the best green products are kept right in your kitchen cabinet.
“Some common household items, such as white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be used to clean glass and other surfaces,” Singleton commented.  “They are also great for removing odors.”

It is usually possible to determine if a product is green by reading its label.  Check the ingredient list for potentially harmful chemicals such as chlorine or peroxide-based bleach, ammonia, turpentine, and lye.  If a product supposedly “kills germs” or disinfects, check the label for an EPA registration number.
Singleton provides the following simple recipes for two green household cleaners.

Glass cleaner:  Mix ¼ cup ammonia, 2 tablespoons white vinegar and 1 cup water

Air Freshner:  Place an open box of baking soda in the fridge and freezer or sprinkle into garbage cans