Don’t use conventional cleaners. Many ingredients found in conventional
cleaners are linked to cancers, endocrine disorders and neurological problems.
Commit to safe, environmentally-friendly cleaning this year.

Do use
natural cleaning products like white vinegar, baking soda, corn starch, lemon
juice, olive oil and club soda.  White vinegar mixed with equal parts of
water is a must-have for killing mold, bacteria, and germs. Baking soda can be
used to remove odors and whiten sinks or bathtubs. Salt can be used for
scrubbing and removing mildew, and club soda is an effective stain remover for
carpets.

Do clean the air. Indoor air has been shown to carry 25-100
times more pollutants than outdoor air.  While many Americans spend about
90% of their time indoors, it is important to make sure the air indoors is free
of allergens and harmful compounds. One of the best and simplest ways to improve
the air quality in your home is by using houseplants. NASA has studied the
effect of houseplants on indoor air quality and reports plants reduce up to 87%
of air toxins. Some of the top air-improving houseplants are African violets,
Christmas cactus, the Feston Rose plant, English ivy and
aloe.

Don’t use air fresheners. The cleanest and safest odor is
no odor at all. The perfumes and scents you associate with clean laundry, a
clean body and a germ-free home are oftentimes toxic. If you insist on a scent,
use a couple drops of your favorite essential oil in your homemade cleaner, or
wipe your counters with fresh-squeezed lemon juice.

Do grind fresh-cut
orange or lemon peels in the garbage disposal to combat odors lurking
there.  

Do reduce allergens. Switch to allergen-proof pillow
and mattress covers.  Switch to hard surface floors like tile and hardwood. 
Remove curtains and use easy-to-dust blinds for window
coverings.

Do make a new habit of removing your shoes at the
door.  Think about all the places your shoes go every day . . .  stores,
public restrooms, gas stations and more.  Even a simple walk through the grass
can track in lawn chemicals.  Don’t let those toxins enter your
home.

Do use spring as your opportunity to renew more than just your
home. Spring is a time for new beginnings.  For many, there are things you
need to leave behind. Spring is a perfect time to get rid of things that are
weighing you down or pulling you in a wrong direction. Spring cleaning isn’t
just for houses. Your mind, body and spirit will also benefit from a clean fresh
start.

Do plant a garden. Eating fresh whole foods is an
excellent way to “spring clean” your body.  If you are a new gardener, start
with a small patch.  Lettuces, herbs and tomatoes are easiest to grow for
beginners.