Plan to Succeed
The best way to simplify your cleaning is by planning ahead. If you know your goals ahead of time then you can prepare for them and you are less likely to run into problems come cleaning time. For starters, there are certain products that I buy often so I have them on my grocery list printable. This way I only have to check it off when I need it. Also, I make my natural all purpose spray recipe by the gallon so I always have some on hand.
For annual chores I keep a list in my household binder that details what should be done in the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. These are my home maintenance printables. Having the lists so close to my calendar means I won’t forget to do those much needed tasks.
Clean the Air
Since inside air is more toxic than outside air, we need to be diligent in purifying it and not using cleaners that pollute it. This is why it is important to use homemade, natural cleaners. We can use house plants and various other natural materials to detoxify the air as well. I also use and recommend the AirInstinct 200 by Oreck. It is a fabulous air purifier.
If you are missing the wonderful smells that you have grown accustomed to from fragrance sprays and commercial air fresheners, might I suggest the natural, multi-purpose essential oils? You can simmer a few drops on the stovetop, add some to homemade potpurri, make your own air and fabric refresher, or make your own beeswax candle.
Clean Naturally
I have found that cleaning naturally saves me time and money because I don’t have to purchase over priced commercial products. There are a few basic ingredients for natural cleaning and they do the job better than most of the toxic stuff. Here are recipes for natural window cleaner, bathroom cleaner, scouring scrub, and more.
Institute Help
Spouses and children are usually our number one go-to for help around the house. Those of us who have the help of family are blessed to say the least. However, there are times when it may benefit you to ask a friend for help or hire help. Most of us don’t want to hear that but really, for some seasons in life it may be necessary: after the birth of a baby, after surgery, or if outside activities are taking up much of your time. It’s better to ask for or hire help than it is to just “let it go”.
What are some of the ways you simplify cleaning?
By the way, be sure to enter the Oreck AirInstinct giveaway.
Amy, are you going to publish (or have you already published) all your cleaning supplies recipes in an e-book? I read in an earlier comment box where you mentioned to someone your plan to do this. I am very interested in getting started with natural cleaning supplies in my home, and I very much like the simplicity of your recipes. Thanks!
I am currently putting them all into an ebook but it will be a couple of months before I publish it. It won’t just be recipes. I am going deep into how to clean, maintain, and enjoy your home. I’m going to include 75% new and unpublished material. I don’t plan on leaving any stone unturned with this one.:) It will be a complete guidebook for natural cleaning. My tentative launch date is June 4th.
I can’t wait to read this! I’ve seen and tried so many tips/recipes/routines for more natural cleaning, but none has been as straightforward as reading your recipes and guides here! It seems apparent that you’ve done your research on the ingredients and the science behind natural cleaning. I look forward GREATLY to reading your ebook.
It has a 3 year hepa filter…awesome compared to the one we have now. Would love to win this.