Brits are keen to usher in the next season, as three named storms and a prolonged spell of chilly weather has led to search volume for “when does Spring start?” soaring by 213%. Spring symbolises starting fresh and starting over, as evidenced by the annual tradition of spring cleaning, with nine in ten British families participating each year.
However, in the age of sustainability, a spring clean shouldn’t just be about tidying up; it’s an opportunity to embrace eco-friendly practices that benefit both your home and the planet. With this in mind, the experts at iWardrobes have shared their top tips for an eco-friendly spring clean.
Top tips for an eco-friendly spring clean
Anna, spokesperson at iWardrobes shares their insights on why a spring clean should always be a more eco-conscious event:
“Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up; it’s a tradition that symbolises renewal and rejuvenation. It’s a chance to shake off the dust of winter and breathe new life into our homes. By decluttering, organising, and deep cleaning, we create space for positive energy and a fresh start.
Engaging in an eco-friendly spring clean is an important step in this annual tradition. Not only does it freshen up our living spaces for the sunny season ahead, but it also helps us do our part for the planet.
By ditching harsh chemicals and opting for greener alternatives, we can reduce our environmental impact while keeping our homes safe and healthy for our families. Plus, embracing eco-friendly practices during spring cleaning ensures that we’re preserving our natural resources and playing a role in combating climate change.”
1. Declutter Mindfully
Before diving into your spring cleaning spree, take a mindful approach to decluttering. Evaluate each item in your wardrobe and ask yourself if it truly serves a purpose or brings you joy. Donate gently used clothing to local charities, use platforms such as Vinted, Depop or eBay or organise a clothes swap with friends to give your garments a new life.
2. Embrace Natural Cleaning Products
Swap out chemical-laden cleaning products for eco-friendly alternatives. Opt for natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, which are effective at cleaning while being gentle on the environment. Using homemade cleaning solutions reduces your reliance on harsh chemicals, contributing to a healthier indoor environment and minimising your environmental impact.
All-purpose vinegar DIY cleaning solution
This all-purpose cleaner is versatile and can be used on various surfaces. However, avoid using vinegar-based cleaners on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite.
- Ingredients: 1 part distilled white vinegar, 1 part water, and essential oils (such as lemon, lavender, or tea tree) for fragrance and additional cleaning power
- Instructions: In a clean spray bottle, combine equal parts of distilled white vinegar and water. Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil(s) to the mixture. Secure the spray bottle cap tightly and shake well to blend the ingredients thoroughly
- Benefits: Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and antimicrobial agent, making it effective at killing germs and bacteria on surfaces
3. Repair and Upcycle
Before discarding damaged clothing, consider if it can be repaired or upcycled – we recommend learning basic sewing skills to mend tears or replace missing buttons. Get creative with upcycling old garments into new pieces or accessories, giving them a fresh lease on life and reducing waste.
4. Invest in Quality Pieces
When refreshing your wardrobe for the spring season, prioritise quality over quantity. Invest in timeless, well-made garments that are designed to last. Look for sustainable materials such as organic cotton, linen, or recycled fibres, which have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional fabrics.
5. Organise with Sustainability in Mind
When organising your wardrobe, opt for sustainable storage solutions. Choose bamboo or recycled plastic hangers instead of traditional wire hangers. Utilise natural materials like cotton or canvas for storage bins and baskets. By selecting eco-friendly organisational tools, you can keep your space tidy while minimising environmental impact.
For more storage solutions, visit iwardrobes. You may also enjoy reading about the common mistakes to avoid when organising your Storage Space.
