Whether it feels like it or not, it's time for spring cleaning. A thorough purging of winter germs is in order, but what are the most environmentally friendly products to use on those kitchen countertops and bathroom shower stalls?
Leslie Reichert knows. Reichert, who teaches classes as "the green cleaning coach" in the Worcester area, used to operate a house cleaning service and used all sorts of toxic products to get homes to sparkle. Over time, she became sensitive to some of them, including chlorine and ammonia, and came to the realization that not only are they dangerous, they're unnecessary.
Read the label, she says: "If you can't say it, don't spray it." The best green cleaning products, says Reichert, 49, are items most people already have at home. Toothpaste works well for polishing silver. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant when combined with water. Lemon juice is a natural bleach, as is sunshine - another good reason to hang clothes outside to dry. Baking soda works well on tile and sinks, and when mixed with vinegar it's great for cleaning out drains.
"These are items that were commonly used for cleaning prior to World War II," she says. "Petroleum-based cleaners became popular following the war."
Reichert also suggests using microfiber cloths in lieu of sponges and mops. When wet, the washable synthetic cloths (originally used in clean rooms during computer assembly) pick up dirt and bacteria with the help of static electricity - and without the need for cleaning products. The cloths are available at Target ($20 for 10), Costco,
If you have to get down and dirty this spring, you might as well feel good - and do something good for the environment - while you're doing it.
For tips on green cleaning, visit thecleaningcoach.us.
[Harriet Blake]
GREEN TIPS: Send questions and ideas to hlblake@aol.com
