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Greening Your Supply Closet

I’ve been a little slow getting a post up about the most recent Green Clean publicity, but better late than never, right? Green Clean author Linda Mason Hunter has a wonderful article in the August issue of Better Homes and Gardens all about stocking your “Green Supply Closet.” You can see it right here on her website, or pick up the issue on newsstands now.

The article provides information on everything from choosing the right sponge (hello natural sea sponge, goodbye plastic ones) to making your own cleaners.

But my favorite part of the article is her suggestion for a green cleaning basket. She built a lovely “basket” complete with products from Mrs. Meyer’s, Ecover, and even one of my old favorites, Murphy’s Oil Soap. A green cleaning basket would be a great housewarming gift or wedding present. It’s definitely more useful than more sterling silver gravy boat. Just don’t forget to include a copy of Green Clean!

Posted by GreenClean at 11:39 AM

Dishwashing Demons

Apartment Therapy has recently launched a new site dedicated to all things green. With their typical insight and keen eye for design, this is a great destination for anyone interested in saving the planet with a little bit of style.

This week they have a post about greening your dishwasher. The AT bloggers have a beautiful GE Smart dispense dishwasher that has special sensors to regulate the amount of water and detergent needed per load.

I have to say I’m a little jealous, but I won’t be rushing out to replace my perfectly good dishwasher. There are many ways you can maximize the efficiency of your current dishwasher. I always make sure my dishwasher is loaded to capacity before I run it and I never use the “dry” function. I just open the door and let the dishes air dry. Green Clean offers some other simple tips, as well as information on maintaining your dishwasher.

There are also some good alternatives to your standard dishwashing detergent. Dishwashing detergents often have a high concentration of phosphates, which can be harmful to waterways and fish. Green Clean has some good suggestions for alternatives. Mrs. Meyers makes great, phosphate-free automatic dishwashing powder at a reasonable price. Plus, I love the pretty packaging. It almost inspires me to tackle my ever-growing pile of dirty dinner dishes. Almost.

Posted by GreenClean at 10:12 AM