Baby proofing is a common topic. Everyone knows they need to pad corners, gate off stairs and remove any potentially dangerous objects. However, there are several other areas that need to be taken care of. Follow these tips to help make your home safer while still keeping things green.
Green Cleaning Solutions
It's a common mistake for the overly nervous parent to get a little disinfectant happy. A lot of cleaners are harmful for the environment and this means they are harmful for you too. Homemade cleaners are easy to make, cheaper than store bought solutions and are harmless for you, baby and the great outdoors. Baking soda, vinegar, table salt, white distilled vinegar, olive oil, natural soap, lemons and a few essential oils are all you need. For an all-purpose disinfectant, mix two cups of water, 15 drops each of tea tree and lavender oils and a few drops of natural soap. You can spray this mixture directly on tables, cutting boards and anything kids touch. There are many other recipes for green cleaners online. There are even some that don't need the essential oils. Using these homemade alternatives is better for your wallet and the environment.
Green Companies
In the fight for safety in your home—you can't do it all alone. You'll need help from monitoring or maintenance companies to take care of all your home security system, smoke detector, locksmith, etc. needs. Because you'll be relying on these companies to keep your home safe, make the conscious choice to select businesses that make green living a priority. ADT has made a pact to become more environmentally friendly by 2015. They’ve formed impressive goals like reducing their energy/natural resource dependence by 25% in the next year. Having a green security system will keep you worry (and guilt) free.
Green Water
No one wants to turn on her/his faucet and actually see green water. But there are green ways to manage the water usage in your home. In terms of health concerns, you can easily test your water. It shouldn't taste funny or have any discoloration. If you use city-distributed water, then elements like fluoride are commonly added in. Check with your local treatment plant to see what they add and if you want to filter any of it out. If you use well water, then a water softener or water filter may be necessary to avoid mineral build-up. When you're concerned about being green, limit your water usage. Only run the dishwasher or washing machine when they are full and limit the length of your showers. In cold months it's a good idea to wrap your pipes. This will help warm water to stay warm on its way from the water heater. This will also mean you get hot water faster, instead of clinging to the back of your tub waiting for it to get warm.
About the Author
Holly Watson is a stay-at-home mom of three beautiful children. She loves being a mom and enjoys blogging in her spare time for Sears and other reputable brands she uses every day. She is also admin for www.eatbreatheblog.com.
