Eco Living - Sarah Coles

Frugal Cleaning Tips

Keeping your house clean and tidy can be daunting especially when you are on a tight budget. Sometimes, you may feel like you are spending too much money on cleaning products and hiring cleaners. I totally get it! Try these frugal cleaning tips that are cost-effective and easy to implement and you can keep your house clean while saving money at the same time.

Use natural cleaning supplies: Ditch those expensive chemical cleaning products and opt for natural, homemade alternatives. You can easily make your cleaning products using everyday kitchen essentials like white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils. These natural products are not only affordable but also easy on the environment and your health.

Declutter regularly: A cluttered house not only looks untidy but it can also make cleaning more difficult. Make it a habit to declutter regularly by donating or selling items you don’t need to free up space and make cleaning easier. A clutter-free home is also more relaxing and visually appealing.

Repurpose old household items: Instead of tossing away old household items, find creative ways to repurpose them. For instance, old t-shirts can be used as rags for cleaning, while old toothbrushes can clean those hard-to-reach areas. You can also use old mason jars to store cleaning products, giving your home a rustic touch.

Streamline your cleaning routine: Having a cleaning schedule can make cleaning less overwhelming and more manageable. Allocate specific tasks to different days of the week and encourage every family member to contribute. This not only makes cleaning more efficient but it also creates a sense of responsibility and promotes teamwork.

Invest in durable cleaning tools: It can be tempting to go for the cheapest cleaning products and tools, but this often forces you to replace them more frequently. It is better to invest in high-quality cleaning tools like a vacuum cleaner, mop, and dusters, which will last longer and save you money in the long run.

Keeping a clean home shouldn’t be a financial burden, especially for young families. By implementing these frugal cleaning tips, you can efficiently keep your house tidy while staying within your budget. Remember, a little effort goes a long way. Happy cleaning!

Spring Clean Your Life: The Art of Effective Home Decluttering

Spring Clean your Life: The Art of Effective Home Decluttering

The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and your home is crying out for some renewed energy. The arrival of spring isn’t just nature’s way of hitting the refresh button; it’s a cue for us to do the same. One of the most impactful ways to revitalize your living space, and by extension, your inner sanctuary, is through the ancient art of decluttering.

Home decluttering goes beyond mere tidying up. It’s a strategic process that can positively impact your mental and emotional well-being, and it’s a project that can be as fun as it is tasking. Whether you’re looking to spruce up for the spring, or an Organising Enthusiast seeking inspiration for the ultimate decluttering project, this guide is your step-by-step manual for a successful, satisfying home detox.

The Why of Decluttering

Before you roll up your sleeves, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind your mission. Decluttering is not just about creating a Pinterest-perfect home; it’s about creating a living environment that supports your best life. The benefits are manifold:

Mental Well-being

Multiple studies have shown that an organised space can lead to mental clarity, reduced stress, and improved focus. When you clear out physical clutter, you also clear space in your mind for more important thoughts.

Enhanced Productivity

Every item in your home competes for your time and attention. By decluttering, you are creating a home with fewer distractions, which naturally leads to increased productivity in your day-to-day life.

Financial Awareness

Clutter can be a significant hindrance when it comes to budgeting and financial planning. It can lead to purchases of duplicates because items are misplaced or forgotten, and it makes it difficult to itemise when you don’t know what you have.

Positive Home Environment

An uncluttered home promotes relaxation, which in turn creates a more positive atmosphere for you and your family. It also makes it easier to maintain a clean and inviting space, inspiring pride in your home.

Getting Started – The Planning Phase

Like any effective project, decluttering your home requires a solid plan of action. Here’s how to set the stage for success:

Set Clear Goals

What do you aim to achieve with your decluttering? Maybe you want to organise your closet, clear out your garage, or go through old paperwork. Setting specific, realistic goals will help you stay focused and motivated.

Pick a Start Date

Choose a day when you have a good chunk of time to dedicate to decluttering. Weekend mornings are often a great choice, as they allow for undisturbed time to tackle larger tasks.

Gather Your Tools

You don’t need much to declutter, but a few tools can make the process smoother. Invest in storage bins, rubbish bags, labels, and a marker to categorise and organise your items.

The Art of Discarding

One of the hardest parts of decluttering is deciding what to keep and what to discard. Here are some practical tips to guide you through this process:

The One-Year Rule

If you haven’t used an item in the past year, it’s likely that you won’t use it in the future. Seasonal items like holiday decorations are an exception, but the one-year rule is an excellent starting point for most things.

Categorise Your Clutter

When deciding what to discard, sort your belongings into four categories: keep, sell/donate, rubbish, and maybe. Be ruthless with your “maybe” items and revisit them only after you’ve decluttered the rest of your home.

Sentimental Items

Items with sentimental value can be the most challenging to part with. Consider the memory each item holds versus the space it takes up. Taking a photo of the item and creating a digital album can be a good compromise.

Organising and Storing

Once you’ve decided what to keep, the next step is to organise and store your things in a way that makes retrieval easy and logical.

Define Storage Spaces

Each item in your home should have a designated storage space. This helps to prevent clutter from accumulating in the first place and makes it easier to find and put things away.

Use Clever Storage Solutions

Maximise your space with shelving units, under-bed storage, and other efficient storage solutions. Use clear containers for items in storage so you can see what’s inside without needing to dig.

Consistency is Key

Keep similar items together and store them in the same way. This not only looks better aesthetically but also makes for a more organised and easily navigable home.

Sustaining Your Decluttered Home

Now that you’ve spent all this time and effort decluttering, it’s important to maintain a clutter-free home. Here’s how to sustain your immaculate space:

Regular Check-ins

Make it a habit to do a quick scan of your home every few days. Check for items that are out of place and put them back where they belong.

One In, One Out

Implement a “one in, one out” rule. Every time you bring a new item into your home, get rid of an old one. This is a great way to ensure that clutter doesn’t build up again.

Seasonal Cleanings

Use the change of seasons as an opportunity for a mini decluttering session. This is a time to assess your belongings, switch out seasonal items, and declutter anything that’s accumulated over the past few months.

Top Tips for an Efficient Decluttering Session

Here are some additional pro tips to help you streamline your decluttering process:

Start Small

If the thought of decluttering your entire home is overwhelming, start with a small, manageable area. Accomplishing one small space can give you the motivation to continue tackling larger areas.

Set a Timer

Setting a timer can help you stay focused and avoid spending too much time on one area. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break, can work well for decluttering.

Get Support

Decluttering can be an emotional process. Enlist the help of a friend or family member who can provide support and make the process more enjoyable.

The Spring Decluttering Checklist

Ready to begin? Use this checklist to keep you on track during your spring decluttering:

Gather Supplies: Get your storage bins, rubbish bags, labels, markers, and cleaning supplies ready.

Choose Your First Area: Decide which room or space you’ll tackle first.

De-Clutter by Categories: Start with clothes, then books, papers, etc

Refresh Your Space: Once you’ve organised and cleaned, consider ways to refresh the space like rearranging furniture or adding new touches.

Reward Yourself: After you’ve completed a decluttering session, take the time to relax and admire your work. You’re one step closer to a stress-free, organised home.

Decluttering your home in the spring can be an enriching experience that sets the tone for an organised and stress-free year. It’s a process that teaches you about what you truly value and need in your life. And remember, a clean and uncluttered home doesn’t just happen; it’s a reflection of your intentional living and your commitment to creating a space that nurtures happiness and well-being.

Happy spring cleaning!

The Art of Foraging: Unlocking Nature’s Bounty Sustainably

Foraging is a primal skill that has sustained humanity for thousands of years, yet it remains as relevant today as it was to our ancestors. In a bustling world where supermarkets stock an abundance of food and convenience is king, foragers are rediscovering the beauty, thrill, and nutritional richness awaiting just beyond the doorstep. This comprehensive guide is a forager’s compass through the blossoming wilderness of edible plants, revealing the finesse required to wield the knowledge safely and sustainably.

Understanding Foraging Principles and Etiquette

What are the Foraging Rules?

Foraging is not a ‘wild west’ free-for-all; it operates within a set of principles designed to respect the environment, safeguard the future of wild spaces, and adhere to the law. In the UK, foragers must be well-versed in trespassing laws, protected species, and local bylaws that prohibit the picking of wild flora. Understanding the Countryside Code and consulting with local authorities and landowners is non-negotiable.

Environmental Considerations of Foraging

The ecological aspect of foraging cannot be overstated. Foragers must adopt a ‘leave no trace’ mentality, ensuring that areas they visit are left undisturbed and pristine for the next visitor. Sustainability transcends personal ethics and becomes an imperative for the ecosystem. Harvesting at the correct time of year, being mindful of endangered species, and avoiding over-harvesting are just a few points on the conscientious forager’s checklist.

The Craft of Identifying Edible Plants

Essential Equipment for Foraging Safely

Before venturing out to pluck Mother Nature’s nuggets, the forager must be properly equipped. A trustworthy field guide specific to the region, a sharp knife or pair of scissors for clean picks, suitable clothing and footwear, and a selection of containers are irreplaceable companions. Never forget the golden rule — safety first — with items like a first aid kit and mobile phone making the cut for essentials.

How to Identify Edible Plants with Confidence

Identification is the linchpin of successful foraging. One mistake could lead to a bellyache or something more severe. Learning to recognize plants based on their features — leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, or roots — is key. Employing mnemonics for plant characteristics can assist in recalling their identities accurately. Practice, particularly with experienced mentors, is invaluable to refine one’s eye for these green harvests.

Harvesting and Enjoying Nature’s Bounty

The Advantages of Foraging for Your Own Food

The benefits of foraging extend beyond the meal. It’s a sensory and intellectual exercise that reconnects individuals with their environment, providing a sense of place and belonging. Wild food is often more nutritious than its domesticated counterparts, too. Gathering vitamin-packed greens, antioxidant-rich berries, and high-protein fungi offers a natural pharmacy that is hard to beat.

Overcoming the Disadvantages of Foraging

There are challenges one might face when foraging, from coming across inedible or harmful plants, to encountering unfavourable weather conditions. Patience, education, and vigilance are the antidotes to these adversities. By starting small, gradually expanding knowledge, and learning from mistakes, foragers can mitigate risks and enhance their experiences.

Culinarily Crafting with Foraged Foods

Preparing Foraged Foods

Foraging is a prelude to the culinary adventure that follows. Preparing wild food involves cleaning, trimming, and often a bit of creativity. From stuffing flowers into ice cubes for a decorative touch to infusing cocktails with foraged herbs, the possibilities are as endless as nature’s larder. Recipes for wild salads, fermenting foraged mushrooms, or concocting syrups with foraged berries are worth their weight in flavour.

Storing and Preserving Foraged Foods

To savour the fruits of one’s foraging labour past their short-lived season, proper preservation is crucial. Techniques such as drying, freezing, pickling, and immersing in solutions like honey or oil can extend the shelf life and enhance the palatability of foraged finds.

Celebrating Foraging as a Way of Life

Foraging as a Gateway to a Sustainable Lifestyle

Foraging is a thread in the tapestry of sustainability. The practices of self-reliance, reducing food miles, and the sustainable use of natural resources are inherent in the forager’s lifestyle. It offers a personal, tangible way to engage with environmental issues and take meaningful action.

Concluding Thoughts

Foraging is not merely a way to source food; it is a lens through which to view the world. It exemplifies a balanced approach to living in harmony with the environment. By understanding the rules, being equipped with knowledge, and demonstrating respect for nature, foragers can unlock a world of culinary delights while contributing to the preservation of our planet’s wild spaces and biodiversity.

Economical and Eco-Friendly Ways to Clean Your Fridge

Economical & Eco-Friendly Ways to Clean your Fridge

A clean fridge isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s also a healthy practice that keeps your food fresh and free from contamination. In an era where the cost of living is a concern for many and sustainability is a growing priority, using store cupboard staples to maintain a spotless refrigerator is a win-win solution. Whether you’re looking to keep things spick and span, a parent juggling many responsibilities, or just someone keen on sustainable living, this post is for you. These inventive, yet straightforward methods, to clean your fridge using items you likely already have, sparing your wallet and the environment from harsh chemicals.

Understanding the Store Cupboard Arsenal

Before we begin cleaning, it’s important to understand what’s in your store cupboard arsenal. Most households stock items like baking soda, white vinegar, and dish soap, all of which are formidable allies in battling fridge grime. Each of these common household items serves various cleaning purposes:

Baking Soda: Renowned for its deodorising properties, baking soda is an excellent neutraliser of odours, which can be problematic in fridges.

White Vinegar: This kitchen staple is a versatile germ fighter and cuts through grease, making it ideal for disinfecting and breaking down tough spots.

Dish Soap: A gentle yet powerful cleaner, dish soap can tackle the majority of cleaning tasks and is useful for stubborn spills.

These items, when combined with the right approach, can turn your fridge into a sparkling, germ-free environment.

The Step-by-Step Guide to a Fresh Fridge

To clean your fridge effectively, follow this step-by-step approach.

Step 1: Preparing for the Clean

Before you start, gather your cleaning tools and prepare a sink filled with warm, soapy water. You’ll need a microfibre cloth or sponge, small brush, and a spray bottle – if you don’t have one, old cleaning solution bottles would work just as well after a thorough wash.

Step 2: Remove and Inspect Your Items

Take all your items out of the fridge and arrange them on your kitchen counter. This is a good time to check for expired foods and throw them out, as well as do a quick wipe-down of any sticky or dirty containers.

Step 3: Start with the Interior

For the fridge’s interior, create a gentle cleaning solution by adding a couple of spoons of baking soda to a quart of warm water. Dip your sponge in and start wiping down the shelves and drawers. For any stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water and leave it on for a few minutes before scrubbing. Use a toothbrush for grooves and crevices.

Step 4: The Deodorising Phase

After washing, dry the fridge thoroughly. Next, soak a cotton ball in white vinegar and place it in the fridge for a few hours to eliminate odours. Alternatively, a small dish of ground coffee or activated charcoal can also absorb odours effectively.

Step 5: Cleaning the Exterior

With the inside freshened, it’s time to tackle the outside. Dip your microfibre cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe down all surfaces. For stainless steel exteriors, use a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap to prevent streaking.

Step 6: Shelving and Baskets

If your fridge has detachable shelving and baskets, remove them and wash them in your sink. Use a mild dish soap or a baking soda solution, scrub, rinse, and then dry completely before replacing them.

Maintaining a Clean Fridge

Once your fridge is spotless, it’s vital to maintain its cleanliness. Establish a routine to clean up spills immediately and wipe down shelves every few weeks. Make a note of perishables’ expiration dates to avoid having to deal with a lot of spoiled food in the future.

Green and Economical Fridge Cleaning Hacks

Lemon Freshness

Lemons are a natural deodoriser with an invigorating scent. Rinse shelves with a solution of lemon juice and water for a fresh, citrus fragrance.

DIY Cleaning Wipes

Take an old (clean) t-shirt or cloth, soak them in your preferred cleaning solution, and store them in a plastic bag. These can be used as reusable cleaning wipes for quick touch-ups.

Spill Prevention

Consider lining your shelves with placemats or liners to prevent spills from directly reaching the surface. This makes for a quick and easy clean-up.

Keeping your fridge clean doesn’t have to break the bank or harm the environment. With a little creativity and some items from your pantry, you can maintain a fresh, hygienic fridge all year round. By using store cupboard staples, you not only cut down on household costs but also reduce your carbon footprint. It’s a small change that adds up to big benefits for both your family’s health and the planet.

Green Cleaning: A Healthier Home and Planet

Picture a sparkling, fresh-smelling living space without the lingering chemical odours often associated with cleaning products. This is the allure of green cleaning, a method that’s not only kind to the environment but also to your family’s health and your pocket.

Adopting a green cleaning approach means swapping out conventional, sometimes harsh chemicals, for eco-friendly, plant-based alternatives. But why is ‘green’ the new gold standard in cleaning? And for those of you who are still on the fence, is it truly cheaper, or are we trading convenience for cost and effectiveness?

What is Green Cleaning?

Green cleaning involves using products and methods that are designed to preserve your health and the environment. It rejects traditional, chemical-heavy cleaners in favour of those made from biodegradable, non-toxic ingredients. This doesn’t mean compromising on cleanliness; it’s about making informed choices that have a positive impact.

Beyond Ingredients

When we talk about green cleaning, it’s not just the cleaners that are under scrutiny—it’s the entire process. This includes avoiding unnecessary waste, cultivating good cleaning habits, and ensuring the longevity of cleaning tools and appliances. Green cleaning becomes a lifestyle, not just a list of products to buy.

Cleaner By Nature

Many green alternatives can be just as effective as their chemical-laden counterparts. For example, vinegar and baking soda aren’t just for science experiments—they’re powerful cleaners that eliminate the need for multiple specialized products.

The Green Comparison

The Hidden Cost of Traditional Cleaners

While the upfront cost of traditional cleaners seems low, the long-term health and environmental expenses can be steep. The cost to your health is hard to measure but is implicitly high, often resulting in allergies, respiratory issues, and other serious health conditions.

Economical Cleaning for the Long Term

On the other hand, green cleaning options can be just as effective and are often less expensive than constantly purchasing new chemical cleaners. A jug of vinegar or box of baking soda might cost pennies compared to their pricey, abrasive counterparts.

Why Should I Green Clean?

The Benefits for Your Family

Green cleaning is especially beneficial for families with young children or pets, who are often more sensitive to the harsh chemicals found in many conventional cleaning products. Making the switch reduces their exposure to potentially harmful substances.

Harnessing the Power of Nature

Green cleaners utilise the power of nature’s disinfectants. Lemon, vinegar, and essential oils are not only effective cleaners but also antimicrobial agents, cutting through grime with ease and leaving surfaces squeaky clean.

Preserving Indoor Air Quality

Did you know that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air? Toxic particles from cleaning chemicals contribute to this, whereas green cleaning leaves the air fresher and healthier to breathe.

Safeguarding the Environment

The Impact of Greenhouse Gases

Many conventional cleaning products are manufactured using processes that emit greenhouse gases. By opting for green alternatives, you’re helping to reduce the carbon footprint of your cleaning routine.

Minimising Water Pollution

Chemical cleaners that get washed down the drain can contaminate water supplies, leading to adverse effects on aquatic life and potentially finding their way back into our drinking water. Biodegradable green cleaners break down naturally, reducing water pollution.

Conserving Natural Resources

Green cleaning often means using less water, less product, and keeping appliances like washing machines and dishwashers well-maintained. This is a more sustainable way to clean, saving resources for future generations.

A How-To Guide for Adopting Green Cleaning

Simple Substitutions

Ready to make the switch? Start by substituting some common, everyday products. Replace paper towels with washable cloths, and opt for a refillable spray bottle over single-use plastics.

Homemade Recipes

There’s an abundance of simple, DIY green cleaning recipes available. For example, a mix of water, vinegar, and lemon juice makes an excellent all-purpose cleaner. Not only is this an eco-friendly choice, but it’s also incredibly cost-effective.

The Power of Steam

Investing in a steam cleaner is a smart, green option. It uses only water to produce high-temperature steam that sanitizes surfaces, making it one of the most robust cleaning methods without any additional chemicals.

Overcoming Challenges with Green Cleaning

The Perceived Inconvenience

Green cleaning can feel less convenient, initially. However, with a little preparation, such as keeping key ingredients stocked, and perhaps a change in mindset regarding what “clean” means, the transition can be quite smooth.

Green Cleaners Can Be Less Potent… Or Can They?

While some conventional cleaners might have the edge when it comes to cutting through grime, green alternatives are often surprising in their strength, and they bring long-lasting benefits to your home and environment.

The Future of Cleaning Is Green

Consumer Demand Shapes Industry

The rise of green cleaning is not just a trend; it’s a movement reflecting a growing demand for sustainable living practices. More companies are responding with innovative, eco-friendly products, and consumers are rewarded with a broader, safer range of cleaning options.

Corporate Responsibility

Forward-thinking companies are realising the benefits of going green, not just in terms of their environmental impact but also through healthier, more engaged employees. Many are setting sustainability goals and working towards less toxic cleaning solutions.

A Cleaner, Safer, and Greener Home

Making the switch to green cleaning may seem like a small step, but it’s a powerful one. It’s a clear message that you value providing a safer environment for your family, and you’re committed to nurturing a healthier planet for all.

The benefits are twofold: By reducing the toxins in your home and cutting down on the pollution you contribute to, you’re taking charge of a lifestyle that’s both sustainable and rewarding. In doing so, you’re ensuring that the spaces you cherish remain not only clean but also safe and inviting for years to come. Welcome to the refreshing world of green cleaning!