Spring cleaning – environmentally friendly and sustainable cleaning

Aggressive cleaning agents are often used for the annual spring clean to clean and disinfect surfaces in the home in the best possible way. However, the allergenic substances and environmentally hazardous substances contained in the cleaners are not taken into account.


“A lot helps a lot” does not apply to spring cleaning, as these conventional cleaners can have negative effects on health and the environment if used in large quantities. The use of disinfectants is also not without danger, as many people are sensitive to the substances they contain. They can trigger allergies and eczema. However, the use of disinfectants in the home may be necessary in medically prescribed cases. Conventional agents damage aquatic organisms and can accumulate in the environment. In addition, phosphorus or nitrogen compounds contribute to the over-fertilization of water bodies.

The surfactants contained in the cleaning agents are completely biodegradable, but not the phosphonates, synthetic polymers and fragrances. These are less biodegradable. For this reason, sustainable, more environmentally friendly cleaning agents should be used that are as free of such substances as possible.


Sustainable cleaning – protecting the environment and health

Sustainability in household cleaning means “less is more. This should also apply to spring cleaning. Sustainability includes the conscious and sparing use of cleaning agents whose ingredients are only slightly harmful. Hygienic cleaning is also basically possible in this way. The conscious selection of more environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional cleaners means more sustainability.


Eco-labels help with the selection of environmentally friendly cleaning products

Cleaning products labeled with the German eco-label “Blauer Engel ” or the European eco-label “Euroblume” are a good guide when purchasing cleaning products that are as environmentally friendly as possible.


Alternative cleaning agents for the household

In general, no special cleaning agents are required for cleaning the household. All-purpose cleaners, washing-up liquid, bathroom cleaners, kitchen cleaners and scouring milk are sufficient. In many cases, microfiber cloths with their fine bristle structures are ideal for thorough cleaning. In general, chemical disinfectants should be avoided unless recommended by doctors, as many people can have allergic reactions. Cleaners based on acids or strong alkalis should also be avoided wherever possible due to the higher environmental and health impact.

Alternative household remedies have been known for centuries for simple cleaning. These include the almost universal “simple household remedies” such as vinegar, citric acid, soda, baking soda and curd soap. These are generally inexpensive to obtain and fulfill their purpose. Above all, they are more environmentally friendly and an alternative to chemical agents with their aggressive substances. Vinegar, citric acid and baking soda, for example, are easily biodegradable. Different “recipes” can be used to clean dirt, grease or limescale in the household easily and thoroughly. These household remedies offer a suitable alternative to make spring cleaning more environmentally friendly.

Pollutants cannot be avoided so easily in all areas of the company. If you have questions about a pollutant problem, we offer suitable GSA measuring devices which have been developed for special sampling. Please contact with us.



Environmentally friendly spring cleaning: sustainable and effective cleaning: Answers to five frequently asked questions


1.Which specific ingredients should be avoided when choosing cleaning products?

When selecting cleaning products, it is important to pay attention to certain ingredients. Avoid products that contain the following substances:

Phosphates: These can impair water quality and cause algal blooms in water bodies.

Chlorine: A powerful disinfectant, but one that pollutes the environment.

Ammonia: Can irritate the respiratory tract and is harmful to the environment.



2. How can spring cleaning be carried out hygienically without resorting to aggressive disinfectants?

Hygiene is important, but aggressive disinfectants are not always necessary. Here are some tips:

Ventilate frequently: Fresh air helps to reduce germs.

Regular washing of textiles: Bed linen, towels and curtains should be washed regularly.

Thorough vacuuming and mopping: Remove dust and dirt from surfaces.



3. What concrete steps can be taken to make spring cleaning more sustainable?

Conscious product choice: Opt for cleaning products with eco-labels such as the “Blauer Engel” or the “Euroblume”.

Reusable cleaning cloths: Avoid disposable cloths and use reusable rags.

Recycling: Dispose of empty detergent containers in an environmentally friendly manner.


Sources:

Image source: 123rf.com © frannyanne, image no. 11235089

www.bfr.bund.de/cm/350/verbrauchertipps-zu-lebensmittelhygiene-reinigung-und-desinfektion.pdf

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www.itsinourhands.com/nachhaltig-leben/nachhaltiger-fruehjahrsputz-sauberes-zuhause-mit-sauberem-gewissen

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www.vzhh.de/themen/umwelt-nachhaltigkeit/wasch-reinigungsmittel/wie-wird-waesche-richtig-umweltschonend-sauber