Spring Cleaning the Natural Way

When the days finally begin to lengthen and the sun starts warming the air I just can’t wait to spring clean my house.  Something about the birds chirping and new sprigs of green grass says warmer days are on the way and I can’t see my garden sprouting out my dirty windows!  Just like everyone else I’ve been programmed to reach for those chemical laden bottles of cleaners with the pretty labels and promises of a squeaky clean house without the effort.  After researching the subject I know there is a better way.  It is true our ground water is being affected by the chemical runoff of our household practices and our rivers and streams are being affected by the phosphates in our detergents.  I think the best place to start is to become aware of some of the basic chemicals to avoid.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission has determined that more than 150 chemicals found in ordinary household products are directly responsible for producing cancer, allergies, birth defects, and numerous psychological disorders.  So here is a basic list of chemicals to avoid:
           
Chemical:                                   Reason to Avoid:

Ammonia	Petroleum Source
Chlorine	Lung Irritant; effects respiratory system
Monoethanolamine	Petroleum Source; effects respiratory system
Glycol ethers	Cause nerve damage when absorbed by the skin
Alkylphenol etoxylates (APEs)	Surfactant that is a hormone disrupter
Phthalates	Used in synthetic fragrances, hormone disrupters
Triclosan	Disinfectant used in antibacterial cleaners, forms chloroform when exposed to chlorinated water

There are a number of companies that are readily available which market “green” cleaners. 
Some of my favorites are (in no particular order):

            Seventh Generation
            Mrs. Meyers Clean Day
            Bio Kleen
            Murphy’s Oil Soap
            Dr. Bronner’s

These products work great and you’ll know your home is healthy.  However, if you really want to get back to basics you can easily make your own cleansers for a fraction of the price.  I actually enjoy making my own and experimenting with different essential oils for different scents.  I find my friends are asking for my cleansers as gifts over and over. Once you gather a few basic ingredients you’ll find making your own cleaners is both a pleasure and extremely economical.  Below is the basic list of items you’ll want to keep on hand.  I found these at my local supermarket with the exception of the essential oils which I purchased at a health food store.