3 eco-friendly must haves for your home
Do you want to improve your health, the planet and save money all at the same time?
It’s time to consider these three things every eco-friendly soul needs in their home. Chantelle Francis writes.
1. Bamboo
For environment:
Unlike wood and plastic, bamboo is fast growing, generates itself naturally and is sustainably farmed – meaning its use is not damaging to the environment or natural habitats. There is an abundance of bamboo in many parts of the world where landowners are begging for its removal, so let’s use it!
According to environmental engineer Laura Trotta, a plastic toothbrush can take over 500 years to break down, however a toothbrush made from bamboo can biodegrade in a matter of months.
For you:
According to eco-friendly supplier Go Green at Home, bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial, which is perfect for keeping your family clean and healthy. Bamboo is also stronger and more durable than wood resulting in less household waste. In the long run you’ll save money by not having to replace your bathroom products as often.
2. Microfibre
For environment:
Microfibre cloths have the power to dust, clean and remove grease without the use of chemicals. Trotta explains microfibers create static electricity that lift small particles of dust and dirt. With microfibre you only need to add water to remove tough grime – time to throw out the detergent!
For you:
Microfibre is incredibly absorbent so you’ll only have to clean up once. It is known for being gentle on surfaces and can be used for cleaning both your home and body. Plus, it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin because the material is hypoallergenic.
3. Chemical-free cleaning supplies
For environment:
Most environmentally conscious women are well aware chemicals are a bad idea, but why? Trotta tells us many modern cleaning agents are made from a non-renewable resource called petrochemicals.
“With every product that has been manufactured, transported, used, flushed down our drains and more often than not disposed to landfill… it doesn’t take long to realise that our environment is paying a costly price,” she says.
For you:
It is important to know that while commercial chemicals gain popularity on their ability to kill 99 per cent of germs, they are also removing good germs that build up our immune system.
“It’s one of those examples where advertising has appealed to our desire to provide a clean and safe environment, but in effect, may have caused the opposite,” says Trotta.
She also reminds us our body absorbs around 60 per cent of what is directly applied to our skin… think of how those cleaning chemicals are affecting your health.
ANH Top Pick
Replace the need for detergent and fabric softener in your washing machine with Go Green at Home’s Soap Nuts. They are 100 per cent natural and can also be used as a general-purpose cleaner, shampoo and hand soap.
Find recipes on how to use Soap Nuts at Go Green at Home.
