4 key considerations when switching to natural cleaning solutions for your home

MARCH 7, 2024 5 MIN. READ

Michelle McNally - Communications manager, Royal LePage

More and more, people are adopting greener lifestyles, whereby daily choices are made to significantly improve not only personal well-being, but the health of the planet too.

Homeowners are embracing the eco-friendly movement by making conscious decisions about the products they bring into their homes. This includes cleaning supplies, as they are known to contain chemicals that are harmful when ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with our skin.

If you’ve been thinking about switching out commercial cleaning products for a greener cleaning solution, then keep reading. We’ve got you covered with four key considerations when making the move to all-natural cleaning products.

Be sure to read to the end for a comprehensive list of cleaning ingredients you can use if you prefer the DIY route.

1. Harness the power of natural cleaning solutions

Sometimes people are hesitant to switch to natural cleaning products because they’re unsure if they will actually clean or disinfect surfaces. In most situations, natural cleaning products are strong enough to take care of everyday cleaning in your home. If you’re wondering which products are effective, click here for HGTV’s list of ‘The Best Natural Home Cleaning Products’.

2. Utilize bulk cleaning products

For additional sustainability and to cut down on single-use plastics, consider investing in refillable glass spray bottles to use with a bulk supply of cleaning liquids or tabs. Not only are you saving money, but displaying glass bottles can add to the aesthetic of your home. Many major retailers have several refill options available in a variety of pleasant scents to personalize your cleaning experience.

3. Avoid these ingredients

When it comes to selecting household cleaners, it’s crucial to be wary of greenwashing. Greenwashing refers to companies falsely marketing their products with misleading wording or packaging, while persuading the consumer to believe the product is natural or healthy.

Many mainstream cleaning products contain harmful ingredients, and even go as far as including known carcinogens. Protect yourself by reading the label, avoiding harsh chemicals and ensuring the cleaning solutions you are purchasing contain organic and biodegradable substances.

Some examples of chemicals to avoid include ammonia, chlorine, phosphates, synthetic fragrances, parabens, butoxyethanol, ethanolamine, sulfates, phthalates, phenols and triclosan.

4. Integrate DIY options into your cleaning routine

New to do-it-yourself cleaning products? Making your own cleaning products is cost-effective and eco-conscious. Organic, biodegradable ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can be combined to create effective cleaning solutions. Be sure to do your research when creating a disinfecting solution – potency is important!

Here is a comprehensive list of ingredients that are commonly used in natural cleaning products and you can use them:

Lemon: Effective degreaser with a fresh scent.
Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and vinegar for an all-purpose cleaner to use for windows, glass, and general surface cleaning. Bonus: Click here for a list of things NOT to clean with vinegar
Baking Soda: Add water to create a paste for a gentle exfoliating cleaner.
Essential Oils: Add a few drops to natural cleaners for a pleasant fragrance.
Bonus tip: Many essential oils have additional antibacterial properties
Castile Soap: Dilute with water to create a versatile all-purpose cleaner, or a foaming hand soap.
Olive Oil: Mix with lemon juice for a natural wood polish that leaves surfaces shiney and repels dust.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Use as a disinfectant for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Rubbing alcohol: Use to remove stickiness from surfaces, or mix with water for a disinfectant or window cleaner.

As with any other cleaning product you use for the first time, complete a spot-test to avoid possible damage to your home.

These natural cleaning solutions will help kick-start your transition into cleaning products that are healthy for your family and the environment.