Cleaning & Laundry

What are the benefits of eco-cleaning products?

Why should we consider chemical-free cleaning products?

We’re becoming more aware of the health and environmental effects of harsh, chemical cleaners. Harsh, chemical-based cleaners can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory illnesses, cause headaches, and other health concerns. Then there are the environmental impacts of common cleaning products. Harsh chemicals go down our drains and enter our waterways, which can affect the biodiversity of our marine environments.

Fortunately, there are many eco-cleaning products on the market that work just as well as chemical-based cleaners. When we use chemical-free cleaning products, we can feel safe that we’re making the best choice for our homes. They’re created with natural ingredients, are ethically made, and are safe for humans, pets, and the environment

What should you look for with eco cleaning products?

Many products call themselves ‘green’ and ‘natural’ but they don’t necessarily mean they’re safe and effective. When you’re looking for a chemical-free cleaning product, check the label to make sure they don’t contain ingredients like chlorine, mineral oil, artificial dyes, fragrances, phosphates, or triclosan.

You want to make sure the eco cleaner you choose has plant-based ingredients and isn’t hazardous to health. Plus essential oils (like in Koala Eco’s Mandarin & Peppermint Floor Cleaner) pack a powerful cleaning punch and also helps your eco cleaning product smell divine.

What are some tips for my eco laundry?

Washing and drying your clothes can have a tremendous impact on the environment. Not only do you use a lot of water for each load of washing but many conventional laundry detergents release harmful chemicals into the waterways which can pollute the water. There are some things you can do.

• Wash less! Consider whether your clothes need washing each day. If they pass the sniff test, air them out and put them back in the cupboard.
• Try to air dry rather than using the dryer. In most parts of Australia, we’re blessed with warm, sunny weather for much of the year. Peg your clothes to the Hills Hoist whenever you can.

• Use an eco-friendly laundry detergent like one of Ecostore’s great laundry products. Not only do they wash beautifully but they also use the latest generation of plant-based ingredients. Or you could try Organic Soapberries They’re a natural alternative to traditional fabric softeners and laundry detergents and can also be used as a concentrated all-purpose liquid soap.

• If you need to get a stain out, look into using oxygen bleach instead of regular bleach.