Five Small Eco-Friendly Changes You Can Make in Your Home

Posted Monday, July 28, 2014

We all need to be reminded sometimes about the easy and affordable (sometimes free) changes that make a difference in your household and help lead your family to a greener lifestyle.

1.Vinegar- Make sure you stock your pantry with this versatile natural and non-toxic household product.   Vinegar has enough acidity and neutrality that it can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, as a disinfectant, polisher, and laundry softener.

2.House plants- did you know that you can improve the quality of the air in your home simply by putting houseplants in your home. They act like indoor air purifiers and increase the amount of oxygen available in your home.


3. Clean your refrigerator coils twice a year, more often if you have pets. Condenser coils are located at the bottom or rear of your refrigerator. If they are allowed to accumulate dust and dirt as much as 25 percent more energy is required to maintain proper temperature. This can be a DIY project-buy a refrigerator coil brush from your local hardware store for less than ten dollars and clean it yourself, it takes 20 minutes.


4. Set the thermostat on your water heater at 120° F. This temperature is normally adequate for home use and will save a considerable amount of energy. If you have a dishwasher check the manufacturer's specifications to see if the temperature needs adjusting.



5. Go paper less. And I'm not talking about the  kind you write on, I'm talking about disposable towels.  The kind you wipe the tables with, clean up spills with, wipe hands with etc.  Instead of using paper towels get some rags of fabric, old wash cloths, make your own cloth napkins and reusable "unpaper towels", or purchase them pre-made.  Since they are made with fabric you can use them again and again. You can actually save money!

Dorinda's shop, Raising Green Kids, offers eco-friendly products for your family. Follow her on Facebook and twitter and at her blog.



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