It's that time of year again... time to clean out the closets, scrub the floors, and simplify, simplify, simplify. I began the process of purging our accumulation of excess crap (for lack of a better term) before I had Ella, but there's still so much more to be done. And it's become even more apparent that we need to downsize ever since she showed up. There are just too many things that I'll either never use, never fit into, or didn't need in the first place. And they need to be gone... NOW!
I suppose I should warn you now that this post won't have any cute pictures (you probably already figured that out) and will most definitely be at least a little bit preachy. But I feel the need to impart some wisdom and am using the upcoming Earth Day (April 22) as an excuse to do so. Here goes...
While I have always tried to be as environmentally-friendly as possible in my daily practices, my resolve has strengthened in the last year or so. Why? We absolutely, positively have to do something to make sure that the earth that we leave our children and grandchildren is worth inheriting. So on the subject of cleaning... Did you know that most of the conventional products used in households all over the country are petroleum derivatives? Yes. Not only are we dependent on oil for our cars, but also for the cleaners/detergents we use and the plastic containers in which they are sold. Additionally, they are incredibly toxic both to humans and to the environment. Here's an article if you'd like to read more about it.
On a brighter note, here are some of the products we use and really like. And since they're non-toxic, my house smells better and I'm not so worried about little Ella being exposed to nasty crap that will make her sick. Sure, some of these cost a little more. But it's all worth it. Really. Even using good old vinegar and water or baking soda will work.
LifeTree Bathroom Cleaner - works for toilet, tub and sink
Ecover - cleansing scrub, dishwashing liquid, etc.
Method Wood for Good - it smells like almond
Seventh Generation - detergent, chlorine-free diapers + paper towels
Check them out. And let me know if you end up using any of them or have questions. I know I won't convince any of you to become vegetarians, but this is a start :-)
2 comments:
thank you for your in sight into the cleaning products. I am always using bleach for everything so I will look into your suggestions to help keep Ben safe as I know that bleach is great for killing germs and could also do the same for a small child. Thank you!!
we use ecover dish liquid, dishwasher detergent, and laundry detergent for our cloth diapers. We also use the seventh generation paper products. They aren't that much more expensive and they work as well if not better!!
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