Eco-Conscious Cleaning: Keep Your Home Germ-Free Without Harsh Chemicals

When the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing, Kiwis spent more time at home than ever before. Perhaps we we’re making more mess, but it also meant we had more time to clean up! We’re now (more so than ever) aware of the harmful effects of harsh cleaning chemicals, which is why so many of us parents are opting for more eco-conscious cleaning methods to help the environment and protect our young children.

Before you buy hand sanitiser and other cleaning supplies, here are some ways you keep your home germ-free without the need for harsh chemicals!

Create mindful living habits

When it comes to a clean home, prevention is half the battle. Mindful living habits can make a big difference when it comes to cutting down on cleaning time, saving money on cleaning supplies, and cultivating a more comfortable, inviting living space.

The most significant first step you can take towards cleaner living is to declutter. Piles of clutter in your home create dark, damp spaces where bacteria can thrive. Piles of dirty laundry, chaotic shelves, crammed closets, or heaps of unused toys are all germ havens. They’re also probably stressing you out anyway, so why not tackle the problem today?

Try to develop some other simple habits as well, like rinsing your toothbrush in steamy hot water after brushing and positioning it upright to dry. Put the lid down before you flush. Don’t eat in your bedroom, as crumbs can be elusive amid the sheets and invite bacteria and mould. Microwave the damp dish sponge in your kitchen sink for 2 minutes every few days to kill off e coli and other bacteria. Finally, try to buy your cleaning products in bulk when possible. Larger containers reduce the overall amount of packaging waste you produce.

Cleaning without chemicals

Let’s face it: Sometimes we’re going to need to use some cleaning products. Fortunately, plenty of brands are available in New Zealand today that make organic, sustainable cleaning products. Some, like Earthwise laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids, are widely available at grocery stores and dairies.

However, many things in your home can be cleaned with all-natural solvents or simply the sanitising power of hot water. Consider a simple solution of 10ml white vinegar and 100ml water to spray down tabletops, or lemon juice and baking soda for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Finally, don’t forget about the sterilising properties of heat! When possible, wash your clothes, linens, and towels on the hottest available setting—your linens should be washed every week or two and your towels should be washed every three to five uses.

Sanitise, sanitise, sanitise

Clean habits and natural solutions can get you quite far, but for a truly clean home you’re going to have to do some sanitising. Set aside some time to regularly wipe down commonly used items and living areas:

• Bathroom taps and toilet seat
• Kitchen taps, countertops, and cabinet handles
• Home office keyboards and mouses, mobile phone screens, and remote controls
• Dining table
• Bedroom dresser handles, nightstand surfaces, and closet handles
• Doorknobs and light switches

New Edition NZ Everything Spray is a surface sanitiser spray that provides long lasting protection against 99% of germs for up to 30 days on surfaces, making it the perfect finishing touch when you're cleaning at home.

Choose a sanitiser that damages germs, not your skin

New Edition NZ offers a range of non-alcoholic sanitisers ideal for a healthier family. Our sanitisers provide a protective, germ-killing coating on household surfaces that won't stain, mark or damage delicate materials such as wood, leather, fabric or paint. While our hand sanitisers can be used on even the most delicate skin without drying it out or causing cracks! Visit the New Edition online shop today to order yours, but hurry! Supplies are in high demand.