This week for 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗝𝘂𝗹𝘆, we bring you cleaning swaps. Remember to check out www.plasticfreejuly.org where you will find some great resources and challenges to start reducing your single use plastic usage.

Every time we clean we wash chemicals down the drain and microplastics from brushes, cloths and cleaning products. When you buy cleaning products, one of the main ingredients is often water so the carbon emissions of transporting that product also adds up.

Eco Cleaning Swaps:

Swap your washing-up liquid for a washing-up bar. They tend to last longer than a bottle but be warned; they don't bubble!

Many brands now do sachets or cleaning pods you mix with water, and off you go! All you need is a reusable spray bottle (some brands provide them) or a glass bottle with a spray lid. You may find one of the sachets are cheaper than a new bottle!

Cloths and brushes - every time you clean the loo with a plastic brush, you are flushing plastic into our water system! Ecoliving do a range of plastic-free cleaning aids - toilet brushes, washing-up brushes, dust pans, mops. And they look nicer in your home too!

Avoid harsh chemicals and make your own. White vinegar and bicarbonate of soda are great for cleaning - a quick Google and you will find many uses.

Washing Powders - washing pods tend to be plastic wrapped even if they dissolve and they release chemicals in the water system. Check out Smol for dishwasher and washing powders, and they deliver straight to the door on a subscription so never run out again!

Next time one of your cleaning products runs out, see if you can find a plastic-free alternative and let us know what you plan to swap!

Plenty of other brands are available - these are the ones our Sustainability Lead Emily uses - try a few and find something that works for you!