Clean & Green

Synopsis

Simple swaps and innovative ideas for cleaning and maintaining your home that won't cost the Earth.

Learn how easy it is to make simple swaps in your cleaning and tidying methods for a more eco-friendly home, with helpful tips from bestselling author and Great British Bake Off winner Nancy Birtwhistle.

This beautifully illustrated black and white guide with 101 hints and sustainable, natural cleaning tips and hacks will help you take small steps that have a massive positive environmental impact. In Clean & Green, Nancy shares the simple recipes and methods she has developed since making a conscious effort to live more sustainably, many of which are faster and easier than the go-to products and methods most of us use now.

From everyday cleaning and laundry tips to zero-effort oven cleaner and guidance on removing tricky stains from clothing and furniture, these economical, practical methods are perfect for anyone looking to reduce their use of plastic and throwaway products. Nancy shares her tried-and-tested recipes for all-purpose cleaners, replacements for harmful chemicals that will keep both your home and the planet clean and green for future generations.

'The book I've waited all my life for' - Kirstie Allsopp

Summary

Chapter 1: Green Cleaning Basics

* Definition of green cleaning and its benefits: reduces environmental impact, improves indoor air quality, and promotes employee health.
* Example: Using vinegar and baking soda to clean surfaces instead of harsh chemicals.

Chapter 2: Green Cleaning Products

* Criteria for choosing green cleaning products: biodegradable, phosphate-free, non-toxic, and safe for use on various surfaces.
* Example: Green Seal-certified cleaning products meet strict environmental standards.

Chapter 3: Cleaning Routines

* Developing a daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedule for different areas of the facility.
* Example: Daily cleaning of high-traffic areas, weekly cleaning of bathrooms, and monthly cleaning of carpets.

Chapter 4: Green Waste Management

* Reducing waste through recycling, composting, and responsible disposal of hazardous materials.
* Example: Implementing a composting program for organic waste and recycling bins for paper, plastic, and glass.

Chapter 5: Greening the Laundry

* Using eco-friendly detergents, avoiding chlorine bleach, and opting for energy-efficient washing machines.
* Example: Substituting chlorine bleach with hydrogen peroxide for a natural alternative.

Chapter 6: Sustainable Lighting

* Switching to LED or CFL bulbs, reducing the number of fixtures, and maximizing natural light.
* Example: Implementing motion sensors to automatically turn off lights in unoccupied areas.

Chapter 7: Water Conservation

* Installing low-flow fixtures, repairing leaks, and using water-efficient landscaping practices.
* Example: Installing aerators on faucets to reduce water flow without compromising cleaning effectiveness.

Chapter 8: Indoor Air Quality

* Improving ventilation, using air purifiers, and limiting the use of scented products to enhance air quality.
* Example: Placing air-purifying plants in rooms, such as snake plants or peace lilies.

Chapter 9: Pest Management

* Using non-chemical methods, such as traps, bait stations, and exclusion practices, to control pests.
* Example: Installing fly screens on doors and windows to prevent pests from entering.

Chapter 10: Green Purchasing

* Considering environmental factors when making purchasing decisions for cleaning supplies, equipment, and furniture.
* Example: Choosing cleaning equipment with low energy consumption and reusable materials for furniture.