Natural Spring Cleaning

Let’s be honest - spring cleaning doesn’t exactly top anyone’s list of weekend plans. But just like switching out winter knits for linen and sandals, it’s a seasonal ritual that sets the tone for a lighter, healthier home. We’re not talking about the “shove it in a closet and pray it stays shut” kind of clean. This is the real deal: the refresh, the purge, the deep detox you didn't know your space needed.

Natural spring cleaning takes it a step further, trading harsh chemicals for plant-based power, fresh air, and feel-good ingredients that are as kind to your home as they are to the planet. Because when the cobwebs start whispering and your baseboards are begging for attention, it’s time to clean house - with a side of citrus and a whole lot of intention.

SPRING CLEANING PLAN OF ACTION

The most common and effective strategy for spring cleaning first involves decluttering, then cleaning from top to bottom and inside out, focusing on high-traffic areas, room by room. 

Cleaning from Top to Bottom:

• Dust and vacuum ceilings, walls, and corners to get rid of cobwebs - those invisible spider highways.  
• Dust and clean ceiling fans and blades. This task may require assistance, and remember to shut the fan off before you start.  
• Clean all the light fixtures. If possible, take down and hand-wash any glass, unscrew the light bulbs, and wipe them down. 
• Clean windows and mirrors. 
• Vacuum blinds and wash curtains or have them cleaned. 
• Wash blankets, bedspreads, and comforters. (This may require a trip to a laundromat.) 
• Vacuum and wipe down baseboards and vent covers.  
• Vacuum and wash floors. 

Cleaning from the Inside Out:

• Clean the inside of appliances. Yes, this includes the refrigerator and throwing away all of those expired sauces you bought 2 years ago for a single recipe. 
• Declutter and organize drawers and cabinets. Yes, this includes the junk drawer. 
• Organize linen closets. 
• Sort and organize medicine cabinet. This is a good time to dispose of expired medicine. 
• Check and clean smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  
• Wash and disinfect all trash cans. 

Natural Spring Cleaning

Natural spring cleaning products are cleaners made with environmentally friendly ingredients that aim to minimize harm to both people and the planet. Unlike conventional cleaning products, which often contain harsh chemicals, natural cleaning products are typically free from toxic substances like ammonia, chlorine, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. They’re designed to be biodegradable, non-toxic, and often come in recyclable or refillable packaging. Many natural cleaning products also carry certifications like EPA Safer Choice or Green Seal, which indicate they’ve been tested for safety and sustainability. Using natural cleaning products can help improve indoor air quality, reduce your environmental footprint, and create a healthier home - without sacrificing cleaning power.  

Microfiber for Spring Cleaning

Let’s start with microfiber cloths. Surprisingly, there are pros and cons to these handy pieces of cloth, but let's start with the pros.

Microfiber is an effective natural cleaning tool without harsh chemicals. Microfiber cloths really “shine” when it comes to cleaning mirrors and windows. Simply use a wet microfiber cloth to clean, and a dry cloth to dry and polish. No streaks! They are washable and reusable. There are no bottles to recycle or throw away, contributing to landfills. There are no hazardous warning labels, and you don’t have to store them in a safe place, away from children. There are even brands of microfiber cloths that have silver spun into their fibers for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Seem like a no-brainer.

Now for the cons. Microfiber is not biodegradable and is made of synthetic materials that shed microplastics when washed. These particles ultimately end up in waterways and drinking water that could harm marine life and the environment. Some studies suggest that microplastics may pose potential health risks, including respiratory issues and endocrine disruption. Some microfiber cloths may be treated with chemicals, such as flame retardants or dyes, which can be harmful to the environment and human health.

So, what are we to do? We can’t go back in time. The damage has been done, so the question now becomes which natural cleaning products will cause the least amount of biological and/or environmental damage. There is no right or wrong answer. This is one of those moments when we each must decide what we are willing to risk for the sake of convenience. 

Natural Spring Cleaning Alternatives

Microfiber cloths may be convenient, but they’re not the only game in town. Cloths made from natural fibers like organic cotton, hemp, and linen are typically made with less water and fewer chemicals than regular cotton, and they don’t contain plastics. They’re also just as effective for household cleaning!

There are trusted brands that provide non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and sustainable alternatives to most cleaning products. There are new cleaning products being introduced to the market all the time, but even with these “clean” products, be sure to read labels! See the list of some common chemicals to avoid. 

Common Chemicals to Avoid and Why

• Phthalates: These are found in many fragrances and can disrupt the endocrine system, potentially leading to health issues.  
• Ammonia: While effective for cleaning, ammonia can irritate the eyes, skin, throat, and lungs, especially when inhaled. (Do not mix with bleach!!) 
• Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite): Bleach, a common disinfectant, can cause skin and respiratory irritation, and can be dangerous when mixed with other cleaning products.  
• Triclosan: This antimicrobial agent has been linked to hormone disruption. Look out for labels that state: "antimicrobial protection”, “antibacterial” or “Microban”.  
• 2-Butoxyethanol: This chemical, a type of glycol ether, can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. Chronic exposure may lead to neurological issues. 
• Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUATS): These compounds, used as disinfectants, can be irritants and sensitizers, potentially causing allergic reactions.  
• Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a chemical used in the production of adhesives, bonding agents, and solvents. For this reason, it is commonly found in a variety of consumer products including pressed-wood products (plywood, particle board, paneling), foam insulation, wallpaper and paints, some synthetic fabrics (permanent press), and some cosmetics and personal hygiene products. 
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): These surfactants can be skin and eye irritants.  
• Phosphates: While effective in cleaning, phosphates can be harmful to the environment and are banned from laundry detergents in some places.  
• Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs): These nonionic surfactants can be harmful to the environment and are found in some detergents.  
• Perchloroethylene (PERC): This solvent is used in dry cleaning and some other cleaning products, and it is a known carcinogen. 

Grandma's Natural Spring Cleaning Solutions

Another way to use natural cleaning products is by utilizing the products our grandparents used to clean their homes. There are numerous products that our ancestors regularly used like white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda. All of these products have been around for generations and are considered safe for people and the environment. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of recipes and household uses of these products. 

White Vinegar

It’s imperative not to mix vinegar with hydrogen peroxide, bleach, or ammonia, as the combinations can cause toxic fumes and, in the case of rubbing alcohol, a potential fire hazard. 

Vinegar is a non-toxic household staple with a surprising range of uses - from brightening up salad dressings to descaling coffee makers. While it’s considered a weak acid, it’s still an acid, which means it can be both effective and potentially damaging, depending on how it’s used. Its natural acidity makes it a great cleaner in many situations, but also something to use with care. Below you'll find a list of what vinegar does clean well, and where it’s best to steer clear.

Cleaning Specific Surfaces: 

• Stain Removal: Pour undiluted vinegar over stains on clothing or upholstery before washing. Be sure to test a hidden area before proceeding. 
• Windows and Glass: Spray equal parts water and vinegar and wipe with a lint-free cloth for a streak-free shine.  
• Soap Scum: Mix 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water and spray on shower doors, tiles, or other surfaces with soap scum, then scrub and rinse.  
• Hard Water Spots and Cloudy Glassware: Soak a cloth with vinegar and place it on the hard water spots for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.  
• Microwaves: Boil a bowl of water with vinegar and lemon juice in the microwave for a few minutes, then wipe clean.  
• Coffee Makers: Run a solution of equal parts water and vinegar through your coffee maker to remove mineral buildup, then rinse thoroughly.  
• Dishwasher: Add a cup of vinegar to the dishwasher and run a cycle to remove mineral buildup and deodorize.  
• Humidifier: Use a 1:3 vinegar to water solution to clean your humidifier, but don't fill the humidifier with the solution.  
• Showerheads: Pour enough full-strength vinegar into a plastic bag. Attach the back to the showerhead making sure the head is submerged. Wait 3-4 hours and rinse.

Deodorizing: 

• Odor Removal: Place a bowl of vinegar in the refrigerator or other areas to absorb odors. 
• Drain Clogs: Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain, followed by a cup of baking soda, then flush with boiling water to unclog and deodorize. 
• Put a dish of vinegar, 1/2 full, and place it in any room that has an odor. 

Things to note about vinegar: 

• Fresh cut flowers: Add a Tbsp of vinegar and a Tbsp of sugar to the water to help flowers last longer.
• Fruit Flies: Pour vinegar in a jar. Cover with plastic wrap and poke a few small holes. 
• Ants: If you have a minor ant problem, try spraying the problem areas with a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water.
• Avoid using vinegar on electronic screens. 
• Avoid cleaning your floors with vinegar as it could dissolve any protective barrier and void your warranty 
• Avoid using vinegar on natural stone or solid surfaces as this may pit or degrade the sealant.
• Full-strength vinegar can cause pitting on stainless steel. Be sure to use diluted solution. 
• For a stronger cleaning solution, use cleaning vinegar, which has a higher acid content than white vinegar. 

Baking Soda

Deodorizing: 

• Trash Cans: Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the trash can to absorb odors.  
• Refrigerator: Place an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to neutralize odors.  
• Carpet: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuum.  
• Drain and Garbage Disposal: Pour 1/4 cup of baking soda down the drain garbage disposal drain followed by hot water. 
• Cutting Boards: Sprinkle baking soda on a cutting board, scrub, and rinse. 
• Sponges: Soak smelly sponges in a baking soda solution regularly. 

Stain Removal: 

• Stove Tops and Pots/Pans: Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, apply to stubborn stains, let sit, and scrub clean.  
• Coffee Stains: Sprinkle baking soda on coffee stains and dampen with water, then scrub.  
• Bathroom Surfaces: Use a baking soda paste to scrub tubs, sinks, and toilets.  

Surface Cleaning: 

• Stainless Steel: Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth and buff stainless-steel surfaces to clean and brighten.  
• Tile Floors: Mix baking soda with warm water to create a solution for mopping tile floors.  
• All-Purpose Cleaner: Combine baking soda with vinegar, dish soap, lemon juice, and water in a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner.  

Other Uses: 

• Laundry: Add baking soda to your laundry detergent to brighten whites and neutralize odors.  
• Dishwasher Cleaner: Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and run as usual.  
• Microwave Cleaner: Apply baking soda to a damp sponge and scrub stuck-on food residue.  

Hydrogen Peroxide

Do not mix hydrogen peroxide with bleach, ammonia, or vinegar, as the combinations can cause toxic fumes and, in the case of rubbing alcohol, a potential fire hazard. 

Hydrogen peroxide is a non-toxic, multi-purpose cleaner with powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties, making it a great option for keeping your home germ-free. While it’s not safe to ingest or cook with, a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution is highly effective for disinfecting surfaces. Just like vinegar, it’s important to be mindful of what you’re cleaning with it, as it can cause irritation if it comes into contact with sensitive areas. If it gets in your eyes while cleaning, flush immediately with water. A simple 1:1 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water can work wonders around the house. Keep reading for smart, safe ways to use hydrogen peroxide - and a few things you’ll want to avoid.

Disinfectant Recipe 

• 3% Hydrogen Peroxide: 1/2 cup (or 16 oz) 
• Distilled Water: 1/2 cup (or 16 oz) 
• Opaque Spray Bottle: To protect the solution from light 
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of essential oil for scent (e.g., tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus)  

Instructions: 

1. Prepare the solution and shake well 

2. Apply to surfaces: Spray the solution onto the surfaces you want to disinfect, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.  

3. Allow to sit: Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the hydrogen peroxide to disinfect.  

4. Wipe clean: Wipe the surfaces with a clean cloth or paper towel.  

5. Storage: Store the spray bottle in a cool, dark place to prevent light exposure from degrading the solution. 

For Cleaning and Sanitizing:

• You can wash your vegetables with it.

• Showers and tubs: Kill mold and mildew by spraying hydrogen peroxide all around the shower and tub and liner and rinse.  
• Mirrors and Glass: Spray glass and mirrors with hydrogen peroxide and wipe them down with a lint-free cloth or crinkled-up newspaper. 
• The Dishwasher: Place a quarter cup of peroxide on the top rack of an empty dishwasher, run a high heat cycle. 
• Sponges: Soak sponges in a bowl of 50% peroxide and 50% water for about ten to twenty minutes to kill off any bacteria. Rinse the sponge and let it air dry before using it again. 
• Refrigerators: Clean and sanitize the interior by applying hydrogen peroxide to a cloth or sponge. Wipe down the shelves, drawers, side walls, and the door seal. 
• Washing Machines: Pour two cups of hydrogen peroxide into the drum and run a hot cycle to eliminate mold and mildew growth or odor. Then wipe peroxide around the inside of the rubber gasket seal to clean any lingering residue. 
• Garbage Cans: Spray the inside of your trash cans with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. Allow them to air dry - outside in the sun if possible - so they're clean, odor-free, and ready for a fresh bag. 
• Toilet Bowls: Pour half of a cup of peroxide directly into the bowl and let it sit for up to 30 minutes with the toilet brush in the water. Scrub and flush.  
• Bedding and Mattresses: If you suffer from dust mite allergies, mix one part peroxide with one part water in a spray bottle and spritz your mattress to kill the pesky, microscopic critters that love to take up residence there. Wait until it’s fully dry before making the bed with clean sheets. 
• Cutting Boards: Let the peroxide sit on the boards for up to ten minutes before rinsing clean. 
• Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers: Combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water and run it through the machines to remove any possible mold and mildew. 

• White Sink Stains: Sprinkle baking soda all over the inside basin. Pour in a small amount of peroxide and scrub. Rinse the mixture down the drain and wipe the area dry. 
• Use it in your wash loads to brighten your whites or get armpit stains out.
• Sanitize your beauty tools with it.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Paste:  

• Remove stubborn stains, soap scum, and grout.  
• Scrub off baked-on food from pots, pans and baking sheets. 

Things to note about Hydrogen Peroxide: 

• Avoid using Hydrogen Peroxide on electronics, any unsealed wood or flooring, certain metals, or anything that can oxidize.

• Hydrogen Peroxide is NOT a degreaser.

Spring cleaning may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Make a plan. Set aside a few days, get organized, collect your tools, put on your favorite music, and tackle one task at a time. When the huge “donate” pile is no longer taking up space, and your home is clean from top to bottom and inside out, the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment is unbeatable! A clean home is literally a breath of fresh air.