Spring Renewal and a Renewable way of life can go hand in hand! Grab our Eco-friendly tips for a Sustainable Spring Clean this year that also leaves your home sparkling.

These techniques are not just for spring; they’re for life—you can also apply them to your regular cleaning routine! All it takes is a few simple switches to eco-friendly practices to minimise your environmental impact.

We’ve put together some key points and solutions to consider. Moreover, we’ve included a list of Clean-fluencers to keep you in the loop, too!

Why Aim for an Eco-Friendly Spring Clean?

There’s a load of good, sensible reasons for taking this approach

• Ditching the harsh chemicals for softer or even made solutions may help you save money and the environment! Effective cleaning solutions can be made with everyday household staples like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
• Eco-friendly solutions are gentler on surfaces and household fixtures.

Unleash The Power of Sustainable Ingredients:

What to look out for when choosing the chemical solutions or natural ingredients when embarking on a more sustainable Spring Clean:

Natural Cleaning Powerhouse Ingredients

• Vinegar: Look for a large jug of vinegar in the “Household” section. This versatile ingredient is a staple for DIY cleaning solutions.
• Baking Soda: Another essential natural cleaner, baking soda, can be found in the “Household” section.
• Lemon Juice: While not at Homevalue, consider buying lemons from your local grocer. Fresh lemon juice adds a natural cleaning boost and fresh scent.
• If you clean brushes or remove paint stains, consider using Bartoline Clean Spirit. This non-flammable, non-toxic, and odourless solvent is ideal for indoor use as a fast-acting solvent that breaks down paint quickly and is easy to use.

Aim Reusable Cleaning Tools

Avoid disposable napkins, single-use paper towels, cloths and cleaning wipes.

• Investing in reusable Microfiber Cloths is an excellent step in the right direction! These highly absorbent cloths can be reused hundreds of times after washing. Head to the “Cleaning Accessories” section for a pack of microfiber cloths. These reusable wonders will tackle most cleaning tasks.
• Don’t replace the whole mop—just replace the head with a multipurpose option! The Urban Living Palio Orange Microfibre Flat Mop Head is gentle on floors, Machine washable, and reusable. You can even use it to wet or dry a surface.

• Buckets and Sponges: Opt for a sturdy bucket from the “Household” section to hold your DIY cleaning solutions. Look for natural sponges in the “Cleaning Accessories” section.
• Repurpose old spray bottles, and don’t forget to label them clearly for safety!
• Consider using old t-shirts or other unwanted fabric as cleaning rags.

Use a Steam Cleaner

Using a cleaning appliance that packs a punch can reduce your need for harmful toxic cleaning materials by relying on the impact of pressure or steam. Clean without chemicals. All you need is tap water to deep clean your home.

• A Steam cleaner such as the Karcher SC 1 EasyFix Steam Cleaner kills 99.99% of bacteria using powerful 3-bar superheated pressurised steam. Use it to remove common household bacteria on hard surfaces. This device’s compact design makes storing anywhere in your home easy.

Better Timing Could Save You Energy!

Sometimes, it’s not just the type of cleaning products that matter. Approach your spring clean more strategically with these timely tactics.

• Reduce the heat when washing clothes. Aim for the bio setting, which may take longer but will reduce energy use. If possible, aim for a lower temperature setting.
• If you are on an eco-friendly energy plan – that uses wind energy, you can save by waiting for windy days to use the cleaning appliances all day.
• Use your machines at off-peak times to avoid straining the energy grid—and it could save you money, too!
• Consider using natural Air Fresheners: Instead of aerosol sprays, consider natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers, beeswax candles lit at times of the day when everyone is home, or simply opening your windows to let fresh air in during warm weather!
• Air dry whenever possible to avoid using the Dryer and make the best use of the spring sunshine and windy, dry air outside
• Spring cleaning is more sustainable because it focuses on deep cleaning rather than frequent cleaning: It avoids too frequent cleaning touch-ups with chemical cleaners.

Decluttering That Avoids Landfill

Aim for an annual declutter that doesn’t generate too much wasteful landfill.

• REUSE – Donate to charity shops or local shelters.
• RESELL – Use online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Donedeal or Apps such as Depop or Vinted.
• RECYCLE—Many household items can be recycled, such as old electronics, batteries, and glass and plastic containers. Just Head to the local Recycling centre for a once-off drop-off.
• REPAIR – Repair old items if you can use them again.
• UPCYCLE – avoid throwing away old clothes or furniture if you can upcycle them into a newer design or look.

To make the process easier, it’s worth investing in Heavy-Duty Bags. These can be larger-sized, reusable bags from the “Storage” section, perfect for donating clothes or household items. You can also vacuum-pack bags to save on space!

• The Hero Extra Strong Eco Black Bin Bags are black heavy-duty refuse sacks ideal for recycling. They are made from plastic recycled from landfills and have a 100L capacity.

Follow and learn from Green Clean-(in)fluencers

Many websites or apps offer eco-friendly cleaning recipes and tips. But there’s also lots of great content on Social media.

Tiktok

• For example, head to the #Cleantok hashtag on TikTok to track these great ideas.

Instagram

• @cleanmama: @cleanmama on Instagram: Melissa Maker is a cleaning expert with a large following focusing on natural cleaning solutions and a minimalistic approach.
• @ecosalon_: @ecosalon_ on Instagram: This account offers sustainable living tips, including eco-friendly cleaning recipes and product recommendations.
• @simply.living.well_: @simply.living.well_ on Instagram: This influencer promotes a holistic approach to living, including natural cleaning methods and DIY solutions.

Support sustainable brands, too—if you find a good product! Mention companies that offer eco-friendly cleaning products with minimal packaging.

There you have It!

Don’t forget there are loads of these Homevalue domestic essentials you can combine with your eco-friendly cleaning solutions and sustainable practices.

Finally, use this opportunity to educate your family about the importance of eco-friendly practices. Green cleaning can help instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

 You’re now well on your way to a sparkling, clean home and a healthy planet this spring!