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The Ultimate Guide to Eco-Friendly Spring Cleaning

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, and what better way to do it than with eco-friendly cleaning practices? By switching to sustainable cleaning methods, you not only keep your home sparkling clean but also reduce your environmental impact. In this guide, APC Pure will explore eco-friendly cleaning chemicals and effective methods to clean different areas of your home.

What Chemicals Are Eco-Friendly?

Using eco-friendly cleaning chemicals ensures that you’re not only keeping your home clean but also protecting the environment. Here are six top-performing eco-friendly chemicals to include in your spring-cleaning routine…

1. Acetic Acid 5% (Vinegar)

Acetic Acid 5% is a concentration often found in households in the form of vinegar. It is a sustainable and natural cleaner that is biodegradable, non-toxic, and derived from natural fermentation processes, making it an excellent alternative to chemical-based cleaning products. Acetic Acid can replace multiple cleaning items, reducing the need for harsh chemicals while effectively cleaning surfaces, removing odours, and even dissolving mineral deposits.

2. Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (Baking Soda)

Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate is a naturally occurring compound that is both non-toxic and biodegradable. It’s an effective cleaner, deodoriser, and abrasive, making it perfect for tackling tough stains, neutralising odours, and gently scrubbing surfaces without harming the environment. It’s safe for humans and pets, and its versatility makes it an excellent all-purpose cleaning product.

For more information on cleaning with baking soda, read our blog Bicarbonate of Soda for Cleaning: The Ultimate Guide.

3. Isopropanol 70% (Rubbing Alcohol)

Isopropanol 70%, or rubbing alcohol, is a powerful disinfectant that is commonly used to clean surfaces. It’s biodegradable and evaporates quickly, reducing water usage during cleaning. Isopropanol is highly effective in sanitising areas such as kitchen counters and bathroom surfaces while being less harmful than many commercial disinfectants.

For further information on Isopropanol, read our blog APC Pure | News | The Many Uses of Isopropanol

4. Sodium Hypochlorite 5% (Bleach)

Sodium Hypochlorite 5%, often found in eco-friendly bleach alternatives, is a chlorine-based compound that disinfects and sanitises. It’s biodegradable and can break down more quickly in the environment compared to traditional bleach, which makes it a safer option for both your home and the planet.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide 3%

Hydrogen Peroxide 3% is a highly effective, eco-friendly disinfectant. It is naturally occurring and breaks down into water and oxygen when it decomposes, making it a non-toxic and environmentally safe option. It works well for sanitising and disinfecting surfaces, removing stains, and even brightening whites in laundry.

A Woman Cleaning Glass with a cloth.

For more information on Hydrogen Peroxide 3%, also read our blog on the Ultimate Guide to Hydrogen Peroxide 3%

6. Safe+ Surface Cleaner

Safe+ is a high-quality liquid spray that is BSEN 1500 / 1276 approved, manufactured to WHO Standards. It contains glycerol, which lessens the impact of the alcohol on skin, and manufactured with Hydrogen Peroxide. It is perfect for cleaning surfaces and a sustainable alternative to many other cleaning products.

Sustainable Cleaning Methods

Switching to sustainable cleaning practices is as important as choosing the right chemicals. Here are some simple methods to ensure that your spring cleaning is as eco-friendly as possible:

1. Kitchen Cleaning

In the kitchen, Acetic Acid and Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate are the most effective. Use Acetic Acid 5% to clean countertops and remove grease, and sprinkle baking soda on tough stains to scrub away residue. For appliances, Hydrogen Peroxide can effectively sanitise without toxic chemicals.

2. Bathroom Cleaning

The bathroom is another area that requires regular cleaning, especially with mould and grime. Use Hydrogen Peroxide 3% to disinfect surfaces, and vinegar to clean glass, taps, and tiles. Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate can be used as a gentle abrasive to scrub grout, while Acetic Acid helps remove soap scum build-up.

3. Living Areas and Bedrooms

In living areas and bedrooms, focus on dusting and cleaning fabric surfaces. A mix of Acetic Acid and Distilled Water can help clean windows and mirrors without streaks, while Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate can be sprinkled on upholstery or carpets to neutralise odours.

4. General Surface Cleaning

Safe + Surface Cleaner in Multiple Pack Sizes.

For everyday surface cleaning, Safe+ Surface Cleaner is a fantastic choice. Its natural formulation is tough on dirt but gentle on the environment, making it ideal for countertops, tables, and other frequently touched surfaces. Isopropanol is also excellent for sanitising high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches.

Conclusion

By incorporating natural, sustainable cleaning chemicals like Acetic Acid 5%, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate, and Hydrogen Peroxide, you can effectively maintain a clean and healthy environment without relying on harmful chemicals. Adopting these eco-friendly practices will not only refresh your living spaces but also contribute to a cleaner, greener world. With the right products and methods, spring cleaning can be both effective and environmentally responsible.