Go All the Way

If you are going to clean green, then why not go all the way? Here is just a taste of a few green and natural products that you can use to clean while practicing being a little more eco-friendly. You may end up spending more
time in awe and curiosity (How did they do that?), while trying to figure out how a wood chip becomes a sponge soft enough to clean delicate surfaces, yet abrasive enough to remove caked on food from last night’s dinner plate. These sponges are made out of a product called viscose, which is very absorbent, effective - think sheepskin (but no dead animals) - and softens with each machine wash allowing you to "wring out and use to dry again and again". If you are a little nutty, then you may prefer the Sponge With Walnut Scrubber, which is made from "50% post consumer recycled materials." Just remember, don’t try to eat it.

Sponges are no good without cleaners. Continue your green cleaning with high performance, concentrated cleaners, stain removers, and cleaning supplies (distributed by GAF host company Life as Organic) that also include an organic, all-purpose cleaner that is Green Seal certified.

Gain more green points with a recycled mop and a sustainable handle made from 80% recycled bottles. Natural fiber and organic dish towels are one way, but if you can't seem to get away from the paper, then why not try recycled paper and go all the way?

Are you excited about cleaning yet? If anything, cleaning will be a little more interesting. If you are still not sold, then consider hiring a cleaning company for periodic or regular services. Any telephone book contains pages of cleaning services, but not many that provide complete green services like California Green Clean which is based in Sacramento. Their green living trained housekeepers arrive in hybrid cars, use Green Sealed cleaners, color coded cleaning micro-fiber cloths to "prevent cross contamination from home to home," and exemplify their green values in their office and work place (your home or business) environments. If you are not yet able to afford the luxury of "hired-help," then register to win a FREE home cleaning through their monthly drawing.

Another Sacramento option is Capital Cleaning, which has been serving residential and commercial customers in the Sacramento area for more than 20 years. They not only green clean your business, but also assist in it achieving LEED certification. Their mission of creating healthier environments is further shown through their program that offers a FREE, "one-time cleaning service" to female cancer patients currently undergoing chemotherapy" and who reside in the Sacramento area. With their price matching promise and Web specials, affording quality cleaning service just got a little easier.

You can now cross cleaning off of your "To Do" list.

Sustain and Save

Repurposing, swapping or sharing, or consigning items is not only a great way to save money, but also a great way to make money. Since our reality is now $4 gallon gas with rising food prices, it makes more sense to spend our dollars wisely and get as much value from them as we can. New is not always better when used is down right functional, serves the need, and promotes sustainability while also saving you money.

The idea of "used" is not so taboo anymore. Repurposing, ‘using or converting for use in another format or product:’ (ex: denim organizer, pillow case dress, and more), is a great way to sustain the “life” of an item, promote creativity, and save you a few dollars by not having to buy new.

Swapping and sharing or trading items is something that many of us already do whether outfitting children through growing spurts or sitting down and enjoying a great read. If your need for an item is only for a short period of time, then choosing one of these options is another alternative that can save you money.

Consigning is not a new concept, but has become big business moving from the familiar church hall to events being held bi-annually and annually at convention centers and fairgrounds. A following has continued to the Internet where quality, used items, and a "great deal" can also be found from the convenience of your home.

For more than two years, Apple Blossom Baby of Chico has offered ‘high quality and new clothing and accessories’, along with the consigning of the same. With a storefront providing a great shopping selection and perks like ‘a comfy rocker for nursing, feeding or just resting’, surprisingly, the majority of their sales come from Internet purchases which are availabe for delivery or "in store" pick-up. If you would like to consign items at Apple Blossom Baby, then contact them for an appointment.