Easy Ways to Switch to Eco Friendly Cleaning in the Home

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Eco friendly cleaning does not have to be a complicated jump from traditional cleaning methods. Little steps such as choosing environmentally friendly products can go a long way. There is wisdom behind adopting a greener stance on cleaning aside from contributing in saving the environment: living in a less toxic home has many health benefits such as lessening the risk of accidental poisoning and exposure to carcinogens.

One of the most basic ways to use eco friendly cleaning methods is to stop using chemicals in cleaning. It is not uncommon to have a shelf full of chemicals that are used to keep the home clean. Examples of these are furniture polish, disinfectants, and cleaners. Instead of using the commercially available ones, try using home remedies such as vinegar and baking soda to clean the home. I make my own great all-round cleaner with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Borax, mix with 2 cups of very hot water and a few drops of eucalyptus oil. Usually, these work just as well as other cleaners and are safe to use even when there are children and pets around.

Sustainable cleaning involves the proper disposal of waste products. Batteries, chemicals, and oil should not be thrown in the trash or poured down the drain. They can cause the waste stream to be polluted. Instead, call local recycling centers or the city government to find out about the options available for disposable. Most communities have at least one household hazardous waste pickup scheduled annually. My local council does this quarterly.

Also, choosing packaging more wisely helps the environment. Instead of purchasing small items, buy them in bulk to lessen the containers. This will not only reduce the clutter found in the home but it will also help a lot in reducing the amount of trash placed in the landfills. As much as possible, choose cleaning products that are packaged in recycled or biodegradable containers. Being eco-friendly does not mean solely focusing on the content but also on how they are presented as well.

When cleaning the bathrooms, garages and driveways, do not liberally use water. Instead of keeping the water running, use a bucket to conserve water. Whenever possible, recycle the water used for cleaning. For example, the water used to clean the car can be used to wash away the dirt that accumulates in the driveway. Also, a rainwater collection system can be an effective and cost-efficient way of having enough water to do simple household cleaning tasks.

One of the best eco friendly cleaning tips is to place plants indoors. Plants have been known to reduce the levels of indoor air pollution. They also provide the area with more oxygen for better health. Instead of looking into air purifiers that can increase energy consumption, the use of indoor plants can conduct the cleaning naturally.

Finally, be aware of the decisions that are made. Eco friendly cleaning should not come at the cost of having a dirty home. Strike a balance between the two by investigating effective, eco-friendly products and technologies that are offered in the market. Also, do not create more clutter than what is necessary to lessen the need for throwing things into the trash.

Do You Know The Benefits of Ceramic Sinks? Something to Think About When Renovating Your Bathroom

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Ceramic sinks have been used for years and are probably one of the most popular sink choices you will find around the world, but what makes these bathroom essentials such a top choice over all the other materials available, such as porcelain and glass?

These sinks are exceptionally versatile and you will find that it doesn’t matter what your bathroom size or design is, the ceramic sink will blend in with ease and simplicity. They can enhance your bathroom design, help brighten the space when choosing a brilliant white and they can be chosen in the size that works best for your bathroom space.

These bathroom sinks are exceptionally easy to care for, which makes them a top choice and is one of the main benefits you will experience. A simple wipe is all it takes to clean these items in your bathroom, helping you keep your bathroom clean with ease. Remember not to use abrasive materials when cleaning, all you need is a mild detergent and a soft cloth and you will see the sink wipes clean in seconds.

Further they are exceptionally hygienic, which is something you want throughout your home. Germs can be wiped away with ease, but the ceramic isn’t porous, so it doesn’t absorb bacteria, which is a major benefit. You want something in your home that you can count on, so ensure you purchase a high quality sink from a top supplier who can guarantee that the product you are purchasing is genuine ceramic, so you can make your purchase with confidence.

In addition to this, another benefit of ceramic sinks is their durability. They are resistant to chips and cracks and can have items fall on them without breaking. This can give you peace of mind, especially in a family bathroom where the sink is used by the majority of family members throughout the day. You can’t afford to have a delicate sink that will crack if you look at it strangely, these particular sinks are strong and durable and will provide you years of use in the long run.

Another of the many benefits you will find when choosing this particular material is that it is resistant to extreme temperatures. You will find that one family member will brush their teeth using cold water and the next will come in and run the water as hot as possible for what they need to do. This means that the sink is going from cold to hot to cold and you need to know that this is not going to cause any problems in the long run.

A great benefit to ceramic sinks is the extensive range of styles available. You can choose round, square, oval, oblong and more. The range ensures that you can find the perfect style based on your unique bathroom design. Bear in mind if you have chosen square throughout your bathroom from your bath to your shower and toilet, then choosing a square ceramic sink will enable you to continue that design, streamlining the overall finish and creating an eye catching bathroom which is guaranteed to impress.

The final benefit is the choice of sizes available for each style. When designing a smaller bathroom you can’t have a large basin which is going to compromise your floor space. You need to ensure the size you choose is proportionate with your overall bathroom space, so you can complete your design with complete confidence.

Indoor Herb Garden – 3 Things You Need to Know to Be Successful

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Owning an indoor herb garden is a smart investment, it requires no more than usual attention compare to a regular garden of plants and best part is that it helps financially this times of economic down turn.

First thing you need to know is that your garden needs to be in a sunny place, this is because herbs and other food gardens such as vegetable does not usually thrive in a cold weather. Remember that your herb garden is a source of food and therefore needs to taken care of as such. These types of plants survive in favorable weather.

Second thing is that it is recommended that your indoor garden should be just that. That means not planting it as part any other type of garden. It is highly recommended that you plant your herb garden on a separate bed. Well maybe you can plant then around flowers to make them look prettier but except for that, it’s not recommended to plant it next to other plants that is unless if space and room is an issue.

Thirdly, you need to keep in mind that herbs don’t need much fertilizing, matter of fact its not recommended. Rather, use compost, they make great fertilizer. Maintain a high PH level in your soil, and have a great time planting your herbs indoor, certainly helps when it’s cold outside. These plants like soggy soil so keep the soil moisturized and since you will most likely be growing it in a container if you are doing it indoor, you will want to take care that the plant doesn’t get too big for its container so as not to inhibit its growth.

Successful herb gardeners can tell you how rewarding it is to have one. No need to run to the store if you need herbs like thyme, and so forth; because it’s right there. So Try it.

Teak Outdoor Furniture – The Perfect Touch To Your Backyard Decor

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One of the things that will set a home apart is the choice made when selecting outdoor furniture. Regardless of the landscaping and other attractive features that may be in the outdoor space, old or unsightly furniture will spoil the overall effect. Some homes have beautiful patios made of brick or other materials, but it is the furniture that will present viewers, as well as the homeowner, with a completed and attractive area for relaxing or enjoying a visit with friends.

Teak outdoor furniture presents a picture of elegance and reflects the owner’s obvious sense of decorating style as well as their knowledge of something that is a cut above any others on the market. The wood used in constructing this furniture originates on Southeast Asian plantations where it is grown under government regulations to assure only the best lumber is exported.

This furniture is manufactured in the wood’s natural state and can be used indoors or out. With its natural oils, they are finished by the manufacturer and do not require varnish or other extras to allow them to retain their natural beauty after a purchase. This type of tree is only harvested when it reaches maturity, thus having a resistance to water damage or splits that are common in other types of outdoor furniture made of wood.

There are many different types of Teak outdoor furniture that come in a variety of colors and styles. The outdoor sets are specially treated to withstand the weather and are available in a number of different designs which makes it easy to choose something that will fit in beautifully with one’s décor and personal taste. This applies to whether the furniture is placed on a patio or in other backyard areas.

It is also possible to purchase other types of Teak furniture to complete a beautiful outdoor area. Things such as garden planters, benches, loungers, storage boxes, end tables, and other items are equally attractive and make it possible to add to the backyard design and present a cohesive, elegant look.

Completing the backyard with this type of furniture shows the ability of the homeowner to have something that is not only original, but attractive as well. The craftsmanship of Teak products is immediately evident when put into place and far above outdoor furniture made from other materials.

The chairs or loungers are available with or without cushions. These make them very comfortable as well as offering the opportunity to have a special fabric design which blends in beautifully with the surroundings. These are very comfortable for guests as well as relaxing in the afternoon or evening hours. Stretching out on a lounger with matching ottoman provides a perfect place to rest at the end of a busy day.