Spring Green, Spring Clean

April 15 , 2009

It’s that time again – spring cleaning. But this year there’s room for a new twist. Here are some earth-friendly tips for your annual spring clear out. 

Inside

Down the drain …

Do you shudder every time the sink or bathtub drain begins to show signs of strain? Good news. You may have seen the last of your Liquid Plumber. Try this: pour a cup of dry baking soda down the drain. Follow with three cups of boiling water. That should do the trick – but if the clog persists, add a cup of vinegar. The fizzy reaction should release the clog as well as bring back nostalgic memories of Chemistry 101. 

Wipe out waste

Did you know that a single microfiber cloth can do the work of sixty (yes, 60!) rolls of paper towels? That’s a green clean tip you can’t pass up.

This one’s a no-brainer …

Listen up Progress Energy customers. You can get a free Home Energy Check with an actual person coming to your home to find areas of wasted energy. Not only will the representative find areas of concern, Progress Energy will help pay for repairs. If you haven’t had this done, make an appointment or start by completing the online home energy check.

Shaken, not stirred

Use that handy microfiber cloth to clean chrome, glass and porcelain fixtures. Be sure to moisten it with vodka – yes, Vodka – and apply a little elbow grease. (Don’t you love a libation that does double duty?)

While we’re on the subject…

It’s spring, and the ants are back. Put some of that vodka in a spray bottle and let it rip. It’s a chemical free solution – and it must be said - what a way to go.

Outside

Weeds Be Gone!

There are a number of environmentally friendly mulch solutions– but what about something under the mulch that stifles those pesky weeds? Best option: newspapers. Spread them out; wet them down. Throw the mulch on top. This solution is actually more effective than those black plastic sheets you see everywhere.

Mow, Mow, Mow

Good news on the electric lawn mower front. If you were hesitant to make the switch from gas-powered to electric due to the cord, try a new cordless mower with a rechargeable battery. No more trips to the gas station to fill up the mower.

Guiltless Gardening

West Central Florida is experiencing severe drought conditions this spring. We’re all trying to conserve water – but does that mean our landscaping should be cactus and brown grass? Not necessarily. There are bold and beautiful plants out there that are drought friendly and readily available at your local nursery. Plumbago’s showy blue flowers thrive in the Florida heat as does the yellow Allamanda and the purple Mexican Petunia.

It’s a Rainy Day

Speaking of drought, it’s time to consider adding a rain barrel to your yard. You can create an elaborate home system, or pick up one at the local chain store. All directions and accessories are included and for around $100 you can resolve some of your worst drought related nightmares quickly.

Home Grown

Why not put that rain barrel to good use right away? Get tomatoes and other vegetables in the ground to reduce your grocery store bills. We are seeing a surge in popularity of the “Victory Garden.” It’s a good way to help save the environment and reduce wear and tear on your wallet. Vegetable gardens are also a great project for children.