Creating A Clean Home

About two years ago, if you would have looked under my kitchen or bathroom sink, you would have found Clorox, Raid, and several other toxic chemicals. In November 2010, I found out that I was expecting my first child and decided that I needed to be more careful of the things that I put on, in and near my body. I started by buying one bottle of Seventh Generation Glass and Surface Cleaner. After one use I noticed that I was not holding my breath while cleaning to avoid the inhalation of harsh smells, I didn't feel the need to scrub my hands from chemicals when finished cleaning and the scent was very refreshing. Within a week, I replaced all of my chemicals with Seventh Generation cleaning products. My favorite product is probably the Lemongrass and Thyme scented disinfecting wipes. They are so handy in every room that has a surface to be cleaned.
Overtime, I have learned there are several natural ways to clean your home. Many herbs have antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties that can assist in the chemical free cleansing of your home.

• White vinegar is a great glass cleaner. Just put 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup water in a clean, empty spray bottle and clean glass and mirrors as usual.
• Mix about 15-20 drops of lavender oil in 1 cup of water in a clean, empty spray bottle. Give a good shake, spray on surface and let sit about 10 minutes and then wipe off.
• In place of harsh scouring chemicals, make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub the surface with some of this mixture and a sponge.

I encourage everyone to try at least one or more of these green cleaning tips for a safer and healthier environment at home.

Crazy Facts: In 1989, the EPA estimated that the fumes produced by common household cleaners were three times more likely to cause cancer than other air pollutants.

A 2007 study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that exposure to cleaning products accounts for 15 percent of all asthma cases. Again, these effects are minor compared to the damage such products cause the eco-system.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,318832,00.html#ixzz1kNw09NUV

"Be the change you want to see in the world." Mahatma Gandhi