Sunday, May 15, 2011

GreenStitch Episode 35 - So clean, so green

I never thought I'd have fun cleaning, but having good, green products and tools you've put some thought into make all the difference! Here's the episode.

Making attractive cleaning cloths couldn't be easier - two layers of flannel sheets, just serged together. I ask you, isn't a cheery red-and-white toile print nicer than grabbing old cut-up T-shirts for cleaning?






The handy cleaning belt won't win me any top prizes in a fashion show, that's for sure! Luckily, my dress form didn't complain. Above you can see a little of how the Velcro fits in, and how the various pockets accommodate an iPod or - in the case of the plastic-lined pouch - wads of gunk you run across in your cleaning adventures.



Check out this link for some great ideas on simple, green cleaning techniques. I'm amazed at how well they work. You can get baking soda in big bags at the big-box discount stores (yes, sometimes there are reasons to go there!) in the cleaning or swimming-pool supply area.



9 comments:

  1. I just listened to your podcast while at the gym.You inspired me with 2 things; one I had to buy the floor you mentioned on previous podcast and I like the idea of the cleaning belt especially the closed pocket for the iPod because I had mine in the apron and ended up in the toilet bowl. Took 6 months to begin to work again and I had given up on it and bought a new one. I love your ideias..Have a nice time in California.Cheers Celia

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  2. Hi Anne,

    Some people have tossed their shampoo as well, choosing to wash their hair with a solution of baking powder and vinegar, if I remember correctly. I tried it once and it was okay but for some reason didn't continue, probably because of convenience. Easier to squeeze a shampoo bottle than mix up a solution! I'm sure you can google for the complete info. Some people really like it.

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  3. Thanks for the notes, Celia and Jane! You know, Jane, I've heard of the shampoo substitute thing but I haven't taken that step yet. I admit that I'm ridiculously picky about my hair products. When I was in high school, though, I remember rinsing my hair with vinegar. I also remember when everyone was rinsing their hair in beer but my request at home for a hair-rinsing beer was soundly denied!

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  4. Hi, i have recently found your podcasts and am enjoying them so much. I always try to use recycled material to make clothes from (normally curtains from carboot sales) and now your podcasts have given me so many more ideas on things i want to make...Thank you for the inspiration!

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  5. I love that cleaning belt! alittle crazy but it looks like it would work. I work in a hotel inspecting hotel room cleanliness and I should take your tips and make myself a little belt - I'd have to spiff it up abit though, don't think my boss would go for the old denim and flannel:0
    thanks for the inspiration

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  6. Anne, wehave used vinegar dor cleaning glass forever and just learned how antibacterial hydrogen peroxide is. We mix it with water and use it for everyday countertops and tables. Haven't used a lot of chemicalsnin routine cleaning at all. Give it a try!

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  7. Hope all is well. Looking forward to the next podcast!

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  8. Oh, I love it! So innovative and creative. It is really adorable.

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  9. What a great project! You've been busy as always. :-)

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