Thursday, April 28, 2011

Going Green

Not too long ago, I tried the Martha Stewart 28 day wellness challenge. I failed miserably at it. I think because I took on so much at one time. I really want a change in my life, but to do it all at once feels like it would be one of those crash diets, where you fall off the wagon. This approach has never worked for me at any point in my life. Slow and steady is the way to go here.


Part of the challenge was changing your lifestyle to a more earth friendly, greener you. This is going to be my first challenge. I've already started substituting my old cleaning products out for more natural ones. Vinegar has become my friend. Below are a list of different methods I have researched from Martha Stewart Whole Living.


Natural All-Purpose Scrub
Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into a bowl. Add just enough liquid soap to make a creamy paste. Spread mixture on the flat side of 1/2 of a lemon and scrub. The lemon acts as a sponge and leaves a natural citrus scent. Use a damp rag or sponge to wipe away any residue. You'll find the paste will stay moist for a few hours.

Mold Remover
Vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner; use it straight for tough jobs, or dilute it with water. Tea-tree oil is a natural fungicide and can help disinfect surfaces -- mix 2 teaspoons with 2 cups water. To whiten stained tiles or grout, use a mixture of 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to 1 cup water.All of these solutions can be sprayed onto a surface, allowed to dry, then wiped with a damp cloth.

DIY Tub and Tile Cleaner
Vinegar works well on soap scum and mineral deposits, but rinse thoroughly, as it can corrode some fixtures and etch glaze on tiles. You can also try tea tree oil -- 2 drops tea tree oil with 1 cup water -- in a spray bottle. A natural antiseptic and fungicide, tea tree oil costs more than vinegar but will kill most types of mold and help prevent growth; as with all concentrated oils, it should be used with caution, as it can trigger allergic reactions if it comes into contact with skin.

 Natural Carpet Stain Remover

Pour a small amount of soda water onto a fresh carpet spill, and blot with a towel. Don't rub, as you may mat the fibers. If the stain is set, try hydrogen peroxide: Pour some onto a clean, white cloth, then press cloth to carpet. Wait about 15 minutes, blot with a clean cloth. There should be no need to rinse.

1 comment:

  1. I liked your work and the way in which you have shared this article here. It is a beneficial and helpful article for us. Thanks for sharing an article like this. carpet cleaning service provider Clonskeagh

    ReplyDelete