Cleaner and Greener

Several ways to keep your humble abode clean and green:

Ditch the paper towels. Instead, try using sponges, rags, or micro fiber towels. Micro fiber towels are super absorbent and claim to really grip grime and dust. Leave it to Target, they even make certain towels for different surfaces. I place my sponges in the dishwasher or microwave regularly to prevent the growth of gross bacteria.

Instead of using chemical filled clearness try using natural and simple cleaners instead. A 2002 U.S. Geological Survey study found that 66% of streams sampled contained disinfectants, and 69% contained “detergent metabolites” which have been shown to harm fish reproduction and cause breast-cancer cells to proliferate in test tubes.

Natural Cleaning Recipes:
Replace your counter wipes and spray with a recycled spray bottle filled with equal parts of water and white vinegar. Also, undiluted vinegar is great for those tough messes you would typically reserve for a more serious cleaning concoction.

Baking soda can easily replace scouring cleaners and naturally removes mystery odors.

Windex can be traded in for a spray bottle mixed with 1 cup of rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, 1 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar.

While you’re saving the fish, think of all the money you’re saving too. These natural alternatives are very easy on the wallet, just another reason to feel good about going green.