How to Make Your New Build Cleaning Routine More Green

Moving into a new build home is the start of a new chapter in your life, marked by the freshness of clean, untouched spaces and the opportunity to set the tone for a sustainable lifestyle. Keeping your new home clean and tidy can also be an opportunity to embrace environmentally friendly practices, helping you keep a cleaner, greener home. Let's explore how to make your new build cleaning routine more eco-friendly, ensuring that your home not only looks pristine but also contributes positively to the planet.

Embrace Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Many traditional cleaning products like bleach often contain harsh chemicals that can be detrimental to both your health and the environment. Switching to eco-friendly products made from natural ingredients is a simple yet effective way to green your cleaning routine. Look for products with plant-based ingredients, which are biodegradable and less harmful to aquatic life.

DIY Cleaning Solutions

For a more hands-on approach, consider making your own cleaning solutions. Ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon have natural cleaning properties and can tackle a range of household chores from cleaning oven interiors to worktops. Not only are these homemade cleaners effective, but they also eliminate the need for plastic packaging and reduce the transportation carbon footprint associated with store-bought cleaning products.

Use Energy-Efficient Cleaning Methods

Another great way to think green when cleaning is to leverage natural resources to minimise energy consumption. Air-drying your laundry instead of using a dryer saves significant energy. It’s also a good idea to start cleaning during daylight hours as this reduces the need for artificial lighting, further cutting down on energy use.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

If you're investing in new appliances when decorating your new build, opt for energy-efficient models. Look for products with high energy ratings, such as ENERGY STAR-certified vacuums and dishwashers. These appliances use less energy and water, reducing your utility bills and your environmental impact.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Be mindful of the waste generated during your cleaning activities. Instead of disposable cleaning wipes and paper towels, try using reusable cloths and mops. Microfibre cloths, for instance, are highly effective for dusting and can be washed and reused many times.

Recycle Responsibly

In a new build, it's really important to set up a robust recycling system from the start. Clearly labelled bins for different types of waste can encourage proper recycling habits right from day one when unpacking boxes and new appliances. Also, be conscious of the packaging of cleaning products you purchase; look out for those that are recyclable or come in refillable containers.

Foster a Minimalist Mindset

Embrace a minimalist approach to both cleaning products and methods. Simplifying your cleaning routine not only makes the process more efficient but also reduces the environmental burden. Use multi-purpose cleaners instead of a myriad of specific products, and focus on preventive measures like regular dusting and wiping to minimise the need for deep cleaning.

Educate and Involve

Your green approach to cleaning is something that everyone in the household should adopt. So educate family members and anyone involved in the upkeep of your new build about the importance and methods of green cleaning. When everyone is on board, maintaining these practices becomes more straightforward and impactful.

Community Involvement

Extend your green efforts beyond your household. Your garden is a great place to think green, as you can start composting organic waste to help feed the plants in your new build garden. You can also participate in or set up community initiatives focused on sustainability, and share your experiences and tips with neighbours. This collective effort can amplify the positive environmental impact beyond your front door.

Make Your New Build More Sustainable With Green Cleaning

Adopting a green cleaning routine in your new build can go a long way towards a sustainable lifestyle. As you settle into your new space, let the green practices mentioned in this article be a cornerstone of your daily life, contributing to a cleaner, greener world for future generations.