The sun is shining and the weather is warming up, which means it’s time for spring cleaning! Spring cleaning can sometimes mean creating waste- whether it be from the stuff you’re getting rid of or the supplies you use to clean. But we’re here to help you do it differently! Read on for some of our favorite sustainable spring cleaning tips.
Declutter Sustainably
In need of some decluttering? Go for it! But try thinking about donating your used items in a different way. Up to 90% of clothing donations to Goodwill, Salvation Army, and other charities end up with textile recyclers or in a landfill, and not with people who actually need clothing. So instead of dropping your stuff off at a big box donation store, try to keep it local. In addition to donating to local stores or shelters, try posting your items in a neighborhood Buy Nothing group, planning a clothing swap with neighbors and friends, or selling your clothes on resale sites like Poshmark, Depop, or ThredUp. This will ensure that your used items go to those who actually need them, instead of into the trash.
Clean Sustainably
Send less waste to the landfill by creating your own cleaning supplies! Try using an old cloth towel instead of paper towels, and old newspaper to wipe down your mirrors. You can even save old socks to use as dusting mitts! Take it a step further by making your own cleaning solution. Here’s our favorite recipe:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 2 tbsp liquid castile soap
- 5 drops of tea tree oil
Upcycle Your Items
While you work on getting your place nice and clean, you may come across some items that you don’t use anymore. Instead of throwing them away, try to find creative ways to upcycle them into something you’ll use! An empty iPhone box could become a desk organizer, old books could be turned into decorative floating shelves, and jars/bottles can be used as planters and vases. The opportunities are endless!
Air It Out
Want to get rid of some smells? Instead of choosing expensive and unsafe air fresheners and chemicals, simply open up some windows and doors! Studies have shown that indoor air can be significantly more polluted than outdoor air, so make sure to crack open some windows and take a deep breath!
Cheers to a sustainable spring clean! Let us know your favorite cleaning hacks over on our Instagram post!
