Clean and Green
When it comes to cleaning products, it’s tempting to reach for whatever is on special off er, but most of the big brands are pretty toxic aff airs. They’re also usually tested on animals and wreak havoc on aquatic systems, not to mention our skin. Thankfully, eco- cleaning is on the rise, and you no longer have to choose between ethics and performance.
One of the best known eco-cleaning ranges is Ecover, which can be found in most major supermarkets and health food stores. I use the toilet cleaner, as it works (rather importantly), helps to remove limescale and has a pleasant pine smell.
While Method isn’t quite as natural as some other eco-brands, it’s another good choice if you want to be able to pick your cleaning products up with your weekly shop. I love the washing up liquid as it does the job, smells nice and doesn’t dry my skin. (The bottle also looks fab sat by the sink.)
If you like family-run businesses, you’ll want to check out Bio-D. They’re really passionate about what they do, and very strict about what they will and won’t use in their products. Their fabric conditioner is
fragranced with
essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes, so doesn’t irritate sensitive skin. It’s one of the few fabric conditioners I can use, as my daughter has eczema.
Greenscents is another family business dedicated to eco-cleaning. Again, products
72
are scented with essential oils, and Greenscents mainly use organic ingredients, along with spring water from Exmoor. Their citrus polish is a great alternative to beeswax or aerosols.
Reusing always trumps recycling, so I love Splosh. You can order bottles to start with, then purchase refi lls delivered in the post whenever you need them. But these aren’t your standard full-size refi lls, they’re super concentrated. You just pop a small sachet in the bottle, fi ll with water and shake. As well as cutting down on plastic, they reduce carbon emissions, as there’s no need to transport heavy bottles. They also save you money; Splosh’s almond cleaner, for example, works out at just £1.49 for 1000ml.
YOU also off er refi lls, and they’re available from Waitrose, so you don’t even need to wait for the post. YOU products are 100% plant- based and have been independently tested to ensure that they’re as eff ective as their chemical counterparts. If you fancy trying the range, I’d recommend starting with the kitchen cleaner. It does a good job of cutting through grease, and it’s nice to know that it’s not leaving any traces of chemicals on your chopping board.
I won’t promise that any of the products above will make cleaning any less of a chore, but they will leave your conscience a bit lighter.
To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
the.wire@btinternet.com
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