Alternatives to Using HHW’s

Cleaning Products

• Use baking soda as a non-abrasive scouring powder.
• Use vinegar and water for windows and smooth surfaces.
• For gleaming wood furniture, use 1 Tbsp. carnauba wax mixed with 2 cups mineral oil, or dissolve 1 Tbsp. lemon oil with 2 cups mineral oil.
• Boil cinnamon and cloves in water on stove for “potpourri” air freshener.
• Clean upholstery and carpet stains immediately with cold water or soda water.
• Open drains clear with rinses of boiling water twice a week.

Lawn and Garden

• Use peat moss, manure, or fish meal instead of chemical fertilizers.
• Start a compost pile.
• Leave grass clippings on the lawn or add them to the compost.
• Use organic gardening methods.
• Pull weeds instead of using chemicals.
• Cover the garden in the fall with plastic to discourage weed germination.

Paints and Solvents

• Use water-based paints whenever possible; they don’t require thinners or solvents.
• Use leftover paint as primer.
• Share leftover paint with others.

Look for products bearing this logo. It indicates a product has been found to be environmentally acceptable.  Click here to visit the Environmental Choice website.

Follow this link for further information on HHW alternatives.