At Mises Affid Cleaning Services, we've been steadily transitioning to eco-friendly cleaning methods across all our services. We've seen firsthand how these greener practices not only benefit the environment but also create healthier living spaces for our clients. In this article, we'll share our insights on eco-friendly cleaning and practical ways to implement it in your home.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning?
The shift toward eco-friendly cleaning isn't just a trend—it's a response to growing concerns about both environmental sustainability and indoor air quality. Here's why making the switch matters:
Health Benefits
Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can:
- Irritate the respiratory system, eyes, and skin
- Trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions
- Release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to poor indoor air quality
- Leave residues that may be absorbed through the skin or accidentally ingested, especially concerning in homes with young children
Eco-friendly alternatives typically use plant-based ingredients that are gentler on the body while still effectively removing dirt and germs.
Environmental Impact
Traditional cleaning products can harm the environment in several ways:
- Chemicals washed down drains can damage aquatic ecosystems
- Phosphates in some cleaners contribute to harmful algal blooms in waterways
- Manufacturing processes often use non-renewable resources
- Many products come in single-use plastic containers that contribute to waste
By choosing eco-friendly options, you're reducing your household's environmental footprint.
Effectiveness
A common misconception is that eco-friendly cleaning products don't work as well as conventional ones. In our professional experience, this simply isn't true. Modern green cleaning solutions are highly effective, especially when paired with proper cleaning techniques.
Our Favourite Eco-Friendly Cleaning Ingredients
Many effective green cleaning solutions can be made from simple household ingredients. Here are some staples we recommend keeping on hand:
White Vinegar
This versatile ingredient works wonders for:
- Cutting through grease and grime
- Dissolving mineral deposits and limescale
- Cleaning windows and glass to a streak-free shine
- Disinfecting surfaces (it's effective against many bacteria)
How to use it: For a basic all-purpose cleaner, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. For cleaning windows, use 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water.
Note: Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite, as the acid can etch the stone.
Baking Soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is excellent for:
- Gentle scrubbing without scratching
- Neutralising odours
- Lifting stains
- Boosting laundry detergent performance
How to use it: For scouring sinks and bathtubs, make a paste with water. For carpet freshening, sprinkle liberally, leave for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.
Lemon Juice
The citric acid in lemons makes this fruit ideal for:
- Cutting through grease
- Removing soap scum
- Whitening and brightening surfaces
- Adding a fresh, clean scent
How to use it: Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto a cloth to clean taps, or add to vinegar solutions for extra cleaning power and a more pleasant scent.
Essential Oils
Beyond adding pleasant aromas, many essential oils have antimicrobial properties:
- Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties
- Lavender offers mild antibacterial action plus a calming scent
- Lemon, orange, and other citrus oils cut through grease and leave a fresh fragrance
- Eucalyptus helps tackle mould and mildew
How to use them: Add 10-15 drops to homemade cleaning solutions to boost cleaning power and add fragrance.
DIY Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
Here are some of our favourite eco-friendly cleaning recipes that we use professionally and recommend to our clients:
All-Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 500ml water
- 125ml white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 15 drops essential oil (lemon, tea tree, or lavender work well)
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle, shake gently to mix, and use on most surfaces around your home. Avoid marble and granite.
Glass and Mirror Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 250ml water
- 250ml white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (helps prevent streaking)
- 10 drops essential oil (optional)
Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle, shake well before each use, and apply to glass surfaces. Wipe with a lint-free cloth or crumpled newspaper for best results.
Bathroom Scrub
Ingredients:
- 150g baking soda
- 50ml liquid castile soap
- 15 drops tea tree essential oil
- 10 drops lemon or eucalyptus essential oil
- Water to create desired consistency
Instructions: Mix ingredients in a container with a lid. Apply to surfaces with a sponge or cloth, scrub as needed, and rinse well. This is excellent for sinks, tubs, and tile.
Carpet Freshener
Ingredients:
- 500g baking soda
- 30 drops essential oil (lavender, lemon, or a blend)
Instructions: Mix thoroughly and store in an airtight container. Sprinkle on carpets, leave for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stronger odours), then vacuum thoroughly.
Top Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tools
Sustainable cleaning isn't just about the products you use—it's also about the tools. Here are some eco-friendly options we recommend:
Microfibre Cloths
High-quality microfibre cloths can be used wet or dry and often clean effectively with just water. They're washable and reusable for years, making them more sustainable than disposable wipes or paper towels. We recommend having separate cloths for different cleaning tasks to prevent cross-contamination.
Natural Fibre Brushes
Look for cleaning brushes with handles made from sustainable wood and bristles made from natural materials like plant fibres or horsehair. These break down naturally at the end of their life, unlike plastic alternatives.
Refillable Glass Spray Bottles
Invest in durable glass spray bottles for your homemade cleaning solutions. They won't degrade when used with acidic ingredients like vinegar and can be reused indefinitely.
Biodegradable Sponges
Traditional synthetic sponges are petroleum-based and don't break down in landfills. Opt instead for cellulose sponges, loofah scrubbers, or coconut fibre scourers, which are biodegradable and often more effective.
Store-Bought Eco-Friendly Products: What to Look For
When you don't have time to make your own cleaning products, there are excellent commercial options available. Here's what to look for:
Certifications
Reliable eco certifications include:
- EU Ecolabel
- Nordic Swan
- Cradle to Cradle
- Leaping Bunny (cruelty-free)
These certifications help verify environmental claims and ensure products meet established standards.
Ingredients to Avoid
Be wary of products containing:
- Phosphates
- Phthalates
- Synthetic fragrances
- Chlorine bleach
- Ammonia
- Petroleum-based ingredients
Packaging Considerations
The most eco-friendly products also consider packaging:
- Concentrated formulas that require less packaging
- Recycled and recyclable materials
- Refillable options
- Minimal or plastic-free packaging
Our Eco-Friendly Cleaning Approach at Mises Affid
At Mises Affid Cleaning Services, we've integrated eco-friendly practices throughout our business:
- We primarily use plant-based, biodegradable cleaning solutions
- Our staff are trained in water-conserving cleaning techniques
- We use reusable microfibre cloths rather than disposable options
- Our vacuum cleaners have HEPA filters to improve indoor air quality
- We offer concentrated product options to reduce packaging waste
Our clients appreciate not just the environmental benefits, but also the absence of harsh chemical odours after cleaning, the reduced health risks, and the knowledge that they're making a more sustainable choice.
Getting Started with Eco-Friendly Cleaning
If you're new to eco-friendly cleaning, here are our tips for transitioning smoothly:
- Start gradually — Replace products one at a time as they run out rather than disposing of usable products
- Begin with the basics — White vinegar, baking soda, and some essential oils will cover many cleaning needs
- Focus on high-impact areas first — Kitchens and bathrooms typically involve the most chemicals
- Consider your specific needs — Some situations (like mould or certain pathogens) may require specific approaches
- Keep learning — Eco-friendly cleaning options continue to evolve and improve
Making the switch to eco-friendly cleaning is a journey rather than an overnight transformation. Even small changes can make a significant difference to your home environment and the planet. Whether you choose to hire a green cleaning service like ours or implement these practices yourself, the benefits extend far beyond just a clean home.
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