'Go Green' in 2014: The Challenge Concludes

Well, guys, we made it! 

I'll admit, I'm awfully glad this challenge is over. It has been fun, but toward the end, you can probably tell that I was starting to get a little lazy.

How many of you have been following along from the beginning? Probably not many, but I would like to hear from you regardless of when you started reading. What are some ways you have gone green this past year?

For those of you who haven't been following along, the challenge was to come up with a way to go green each week this past year, and to create a blog post each week highlighting that idea. These ideas were things anybody could easily implement into their daily lives - nothing too complicated or expensive.

I have provided links to each of my weekly posts on this page:

Go Green 2014

But don't worry! I'm not quitting my blog now that the challenge is over. I still have plenty of ideas (and lots of green articles left to be recycled from when Yahoo! Voices closed down; recycling is green, after all!). In the coming year, I plan on expanding upon some of the ideas we have already gone over, as well as coming up with brand-new post ideas.

I'm looking forward to working on posts that don't really have a deadline, so I can work on them when I'm inspired, and just relax when I'm not.

That said, I want to thank those of you who have been reading my blog, whether just a post here and there or every single one. Please share any ideas you have for future "green tips" or let me know if you have any questions you have that might make good posts.

Go Green by Sharing and Swapping Belongings

Go Green in 2014: Week 52

 I'm going to keep this week's post really short due to being sick with some bug I caught over Christmas break. My brain is in a bit of a fog, but I'll give this my best shot.

My green idea for Week 52 - the final week of my green challenge - is sharing and/or swapping belongings to reduce waste.

Ideas for sharing gently-used items include:

• Offer clothing you no longer wear to friends who wear the same size as you.
• Host a clothing swap or rummage sale where a group of people can trade gently-used items for things they like.
• Donate clothing or household items to a local charity. 
• Pet supplies can be donated to the local animal shelter or humane society.
• Swap books with friends who have the same taste in reading material.
• Re-gift items that you are unlikely to use (but never re-gift to the person who gave it to you!).
• Join your local "swap and shop" group on Facebook to trade or sell/buy belongings.

What are some ways you have gone green by sharing and/or swapping belongings? Share your ideas in the comments below.

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Your challenge: This week, consider ways you can share or swap items as a step toward going green.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

10 Green Tips for Your Car

Go Green in 2014: Week 51

When you think of "going green" and your car, what do you think of? I'm guessing a few of the below ten tips come to mind, but do you always implement these practices? I will admit, I don't always, but I want to be better about reducing fuel consumption and polluting less...and potentially saving some money. Who can argue with that?

When I started writing this post, I had forgotten that I previously wrote a post about going green by driving less. Find it here:

Go Green by Driving Less

But that's not the only way you can implement green automobile practices into your life. Let's take a look at ten ways you can go green with your car (admittedly, a lot of the tips involve driving less).

1. Drive a green car. No, I don't mean the color green...unless that's actually what you want. ;) This may not be feasible in the immediate future, but when it's time to buy a new vehicle, consider getting a hybrid or an electric car. Hybrids now come in various sizes, big and small.

2. Drive less and walk more. It may be difficult now that it's winter and oh-so-cold in many places, like South Dakota, where I am. But when you are able, choose walking, rollerblading, or bike riding to places nearby. Plus, it's a great way to get fit!

3. Use cruise control. You could get 15% better gas mileage just by doing so.

4. Batch errands to reduce driving. I hate making trips to the store, so I try to wait until I can run several errands at once - although, it doesn't always work out that way!

5. Maintain your vehicle. By keeping your car in top shape, you will not only burn less gas and keep pollution to a minimum, but you will have less mechanical trouble down the line.

6. Telecommute or carpool. Wouldn't it be great to work from home? If your job is one that could be done from home, consider pitching the idea to your company. Or carpool to work and various events with someone who lives nearby.

7. Use green driving practices. Drive the speed limit and avoid sudden starts or jerky stops for the best fuel economy.

8. Drive part of the way. Then take your bike or public transit the rest of the way.

9. Limit AC use. Open the windows or use a small personal fan when you are able. Park in a shady area and use a reflective windshield shade to keep your car cool when parked.

10. Go to the car wash. Believe it or not, car washes are much more efficient with water than washing your car at home.

What are some ways you have gone green with your car? How do you limit the amount of driving you do? Please share your experiences in the comments section below!

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Marcelo Campi

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Your challenge: This week, consider the above ten ways to go green with your car, and try to implement as many as you can into your daily life.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Green and DIY Makeup Alternatives

Go Green in 2014: Week 50

I'm not much of a makeup person, and I haven't really "gone green" in this area, but I've done a bit of research to find some of the best recipes for those of you who are up to doing it yourself. Play around with the various recipes to find your favorites, and to find those that work for your skin tone.

Concealer and foundation

You can use various kitchen ingredients to make your own concealer and foundation, like cocoa powder and clay. Here's a recipe for a DIY healing concealer and another for DIY natural powder foundation. You will probably have to play around with the amounts of each ingredient to get the right color for your skin tone.

Eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara 

Depending on the desired color, your eyeshadow and eyeliner ingredients can vary. Here are four recipes for homemade eyeshadow, and here's one for non-toxic eyeliner. And I found this great tutorial (with lots of photos!) on making your own mascara.

Lip color and blush

While researching, I came across this little gem of a site with TEN lip color - lipstick, lip balm, etc. - recipes. They look like so much fun, I just might have to give them a try...especially the crayon lipstick recipe. And finally, here's an all-natural, homemade blush recipe. Keep in mind that everyone's skin tone is different, and that what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment and play around until you find something that works for you!

Removing makeup the green way

I recently came across an amazing product that I just have to share: the makeup eraser. It's basically a microfiber cloth that removes makeup, dirt, and oil from your skin - and it does it well. Plus, the back side has longer fibers for exfoliating to achieve smoother skin. You don't necessarily have to buy this exact product if you have access to a good quality microfiber cloth. You don't need to use makeup remover with the makeup eraser around, and the best part is you can simply wash it with hot water and reuse it many, many times. If you're interested, you can find out more at makeuperaser.com (Disclaimer: All opinions are my own, and I don't get paid for promoting this product).

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Your challenge: This week, think about switching to a greener makeup routine.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Natural Remedies for Minor Ailments

Go Green in 2014: Week 49

I rarely take prescription or over-the-counter medicine, except for more serious ailments. For the most part, I prefer to let minor health issues resolve on their own...well, with a little help from "natural" home treatments.

Now, keeping in mind that I'm not a doctor and this is not meant to diagnose or treat your ailments, I would like to share a few things I have learned on my green journey. Since it would take a book to cover every minor ailment, I will just choose a few to cover in this post. If you would like to learn more, there are many resources that can help you treat a variety of symptoms naturally.

Here are a few ebooks that might be helpful.

Chest congestion

I once had so much chest congestion that I could hardly speak. I tried everything I could think of. Finally, one night, I boiled a pot of water and added a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the water. Draping a towel over my head, like a tent, I leaned over the pot of steaming water and breathed in the steam for about ten minutes. That night, I ran a humidifier while I slept, and the next morning, almost all the congestion cleared out. Now, whenever I even start feeling congested, I inhale steam daily until I feel better.

10 Natural Cold & Allergy Remedies

Minor cuts and scrapes

Melaleuca oil (tea tree essential oil) is a powerful healing agent for minor injuries. It is also a fast-working spot treatment for acne. I like to place a drop or two on a cotton swab and dab on the affected area a couple times a day until it's healed. I don't even own store-bought topical ointments anymore; I always use the Melaleuca oil or MelaGel (you can learn more at melaleuca.com). 

Dry or sore throat

At the first onset of a dry or sore throat, I start drinking chamomile tea with local honey (real honey; not the kind that comes in a bear-shaped bottle). Of course, I drink plenty of water, as well, and suck on hard candies or cough drops if needed. If you develop a cough, try swallowing a spoonful of honey before bedtime to soothe your throat.

Warning: Never feed honey to a child under one year old; it could trigger botulism (source).

Headaches

Headaches are tricky for me. Although effective, I don't like popping pills to get rid of them, so I will often let them get out of control before giving in and taking a Tylenol. However, if I catch it right away, I can occasionally get rid of a headache naturally. Sometimes, smelling peppermint essential oil can help. You could try diffusing it if you have a diffuser, or place a drop on your skin...just make sure you are using a high quality oil if you decide to use it topically. Reflexology can also help, as can a neck or shoulder massage if tension is the source of your headache.

What are some of your favorite natural, home remedies for minor ailments? Please share below if you have found an effective treatment for a problem that can be treated at home.

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Disclosure: This post may contain some affiliate links, but all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, consider using natural remedies or treatments for any minor ailments that may come up.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Non-Toxic Nail Art Ideas

Go Green in 2014: Week 48

Most nail paints and enamels contain harsh chemicals that aren't exactly "green". But that doesn't mean you can't have fun with your finger- and toenails. There are a few different non-toxic ways you can decorate your nails; here are some that I have discovered.

Chemical-free nail wraps

I recently ordered nail wraps from Jamberry Nails (jamberrynails.net) and tried them out. For the most part, they're great: easy to apply (once you get the hang of it), easy to remove, and best of all...they are green. They are basically stickers with a non-toxic adhesive that is heat-activated. Once you apply the wrap, you can trim it down to the length and shape of your nail.

They are somewhat expensive at $15 per sheet, but you can get 2 manicures, 2 pedicures, and a few accent nails out of each sheet. They can last up to two weeks on fingers and much longer on toes. They come in tons of different designs (see picture for an example). They can be removed with heat, or with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, all of which are non-toxic.

The only real problem I had with the wraps was upon removing them: They left my nails pretty dry and cracked (which is probably largely due to the dry winter air) so I had to cut them short and give them time to breathe for a few weeks.

Non-toxic nail polish

I'll have to be honest: I've never tried a "green" nail polish or lacquer, but here's what I found out with a little research.

There are various brands of non-toxic nail polish: Piggy Paint, Acquarella, Honeybee Gardens, and several others. They are free of toxic chemicals, such as toluene and formaldehyde. They don't tend to last long, but on the plus side, they are easy to remove with non-toxic removal methods.

Non-toxic nail lacquers

When researching, I came across the Scotch Naturals website (scotchnaturals.com), where you can learn more about their non-toxic nail lacquers. They are similar to nail polish, but seem to be more durable. This particular brand carries products that are vegan, fragrance free, paraben free, biodegradable, and free of the previously-mentioned chemicals.

What are your thoughts? Have you tried any non-toxic nail art methods? Please share your experience below.

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Disclosure: This post may contain some affiliate links, but all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, consider swapping out your regular nail polish for a new non-toxic nail art method.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Green Holiday Gift Shopping Ideas

Go Green in 2014: Week 47

The holidays are coming up quickly, and you may be wondering how you can go green with your gift giving....

Although I've hardly begun my shopping, I have been trying to come up with some ideas to lessen my environmental impact once I get started. Following are a few things I have done in the past, as well as some new ideas for this year's holiday gifts.

1. Support local shops. Shopping locally is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint because it helps conserve resources, such as those related to transportation. Plus, you will be helping to support the local economy.

2. Make your own holiday gifts. "Doing it yourself" is not only a great way to conserve resources, but it's usually pretty inexpensive and much more personal. In my experience, people tend to appreciate handmade gifts much more than generic, store-bought items.

3. Shop for gifts made with recycled materials. There are all kinds of neat gift items that are made with recycled materials, such as flip flop doormats, recycled metal jewelry and wall art, reclaimed wood furniture, and so on. You could even combine ideas 1 and 2, and make your own recycled material holiday gifts.

4. Give away seed packets. Seed packets are a great way to help someone become more eco-friendly, whether they are for flowers, veggies, or herbs. If you want to take it a step further, you could give potted herbs, perhaps to someone who enjoys cooking.

5. Buy gift cards to local stores. Gift cards are great because they are small, and the recipients can then buy whatever they like. This greatly reduces waste (have you ever received something that ended up collecting dust for several years before you finally gave it away or sold it in a garage sale?).

6. Give reusable cloth napkins or "unpaper" towels. Someone who goes through a lot of paper towels, such as someone with kids or pets, might appreciate the monetary savings associated with reusable napkins. Learn more here. Cloth sandwich and snack baggies are also a great idea.

7. Shop for non-toxic toys for kids. Wooden toys may be safer than plastic ones, because plastic often contains toxic chemicals - however, if the wood is painted, do your research to be sure it is non-toxic. Learn about three chemicals that could be in your child's toys.

8. Purchase dryer balls or soap nuts as gifts. Instead of dryer sheets or fabric softener, I use wool dryer balls to soften my laundry. Soap nuts, which come from the soapberry tree, are also a great gift idea for someone who might be interested in switching to a more green detergent alternative.

9. Make sure gifts are practical or useful. If you're not sure someone will use your gift, maybe you should reconsider it. Items that go unused are wasteful, so if you really don't know someone very well, consider simply asking what they want or need.

10. "Wrap" gifts in reusable bags. You will likely want to wrap your gift, whether it's green or...not so much. Reusable cloth bags are useful because they have so many purposes: grocery shopping, traveling, or just storing certain items (I like keep my yarn in a reusable bag for easy transportation).

What are some ways you have gone green with holiday gift giving? How do you plan to do so this year?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / FutUndBeidl

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Disclosure: This post may contain some affiliate links, but all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, if you haven't already, start your holiday gift list with as many green and environmentally-friendly items as you can come up with.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Ideas to Make Your Own Natural Food Coloring

Go Green in 2014: Week 46

We don't really use food coloring in our house, but it can be helpful when it comes to adding a touch of color to your food; cupcake frosting and colored eggs are a couple examples. However, many store-bought food dyes have been linked to various health issues (source). Wouldn't you rather know what is in your food coloring? You certainly will if you make your own!

Here are some ideas for natural, homemade food coloring.

Red

For red or pink food coloring, you can use a number of different red colored foods, but if you're looking for a flavorless dye, beets are your best bet. You can either use juice from canned beets or you can juice the raw vegetable. Raspberries and pomegranates are a couple other ideas, both of which will add a little flavor to your food.

Orange

Some people use orange juice to make natural food coloring, but they don't have much color. Try carrots instead for a nice orange hue. And don't worry about the flavor if you are coloring frosting; carrots are naturally sweet.

Yellow

Use turmeric powder or saffron flowers to make yellow food coloring. The yellow is pretty intense, so start small and add a little at a time. You may also want to taste test each time you add these spices since the flavor could potentially overpower a sweet food.

Green

Spinach will impart a pretty green hue to a natural food coloring. You could either juice them or use a food processor to get your green dye. And as with carrots, spinach will not affect the taste.

Blue (and purple)

To make blue and purple food coloring, try some cabbage. For purple, boil the cabbage until the water is a dark purple, and use this water as a natural dye. To make blue food coloring, slowly stir in a little bit of baking soda at a time until you have the desired hue. The baking soda and cabbage water will react, creating a nice blue.

Have you made natural food coloring before? What did you use to make it? How did it turn out?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Clever Cupcakes

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Your challenge: This week, consider making your own non-toxic food coloring rather than using store-bought dyes.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Switching to Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Go Green in 2014: Week 45

My husband and I bought new light fixtures for our dining room and living room last weekend, so we have been working on installing them. It's exciting! Our old fixtures were, well, old. I'll admit, there have been a few setbacks, but in the end, I love having updated lighting.

Now, the light fixtures themselves aren't necessarily "green" or "not green". It's the type of light bulbs you use that really matters.

Why switch to energy efficient light bulbs
 
An energy efficient bulb might cost you a little more upfront, but they will save you money and electricity in the long run. Besides, the incandescent bulb is becoming more obsolete, thanks to a 2007 U.S. law (Energy Independence and Security Act) that was set into effect to phase them out. Since we moved into our house, we have been slowly switching to energy efficient bulbs as the old ones burn out.

Now that we have covered the reasons to switch out your lighting, let's take a look at the different options we have.

Types of energy efficient light bulbs

You probably envision those curly-cue light bulbs when you think of energy efficiency, but they aren't the only option.

1. CFL. Compact fluorescent lights (the curly bulbs you might be picturing) are pretty inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes to fit various fixtures; they also come in warm and natural hues, so you aren't stuck with that cold, bluish tinge in your living room. They do contain a small amount of mercury, which isn't a problem when handled correctly.
2. LED. Light emitting diodes are durable and have a long life span; you could get up to 11 years on continuous (24 hours per day) operation from them. They do tend to have a lower, more direct output, though, so they may be better for certain applications than others.
3. Halogen. Most people don't think of halogen when they think of energy efficiency, but they use less energy than an incandescent bulb and they are great for specific applications. Halogen lighting is a favorite in art galleries or in a reading area where it reduces eye strain. Like incandescent bulbs, however, halogen generates heat, which could potentially cause damage in the surrounding area.

What type of lighting do you have in your home?

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Your challenge: This week, consider moving to energy efficient light bulbs as the old ones need to be replaced.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

How to Safely Off-Gas New Furniture

Go Green in 2014: Week 44

Did you know that particle board and plywood furniture is a source of off-gassing? First of all, what in the world is off-gassing?

Off-gassing is the release of chemicals from items, such as new furniture, that we bring into our home (I'll list a few more offenders in just a bit). Formaldehyde is part of the glue that binds particle board together, and its gases are released into the air for a period of time. This can be unhealthy when new particleboard or plywood furniture is brought into a small, closed-off room.

What are some ways we can avoid inhaling these toxic fumes?

How to safely off-gas new furniture

Besides buying solid wood furniture rather than particle board, here are a few ideas to avoid the buildup of harmful chemicals in your home.

• Buy gently used furniture that has already had time to off-gas.
• Weather permitting, leave the furniture outside for a few days (or at least a day) to off-gas.
• Leave the furniture in an unused room for a few days and open the window, at least as long as the weather permits.
• If you must bring it inside, open up windows for as long as you're able, as a way to circulate air.

What are some ways you have safely off-gassed new furniture?

More surprising sources of off-gassing

Furniture is not the only source of chemical off-gassing, though. Here are a few others to look out for.

• Dryer sheets
• Air fresheners
• Commercial cleaning products
• Nail polish remover
• Electronics
• Non-stick pans
• Laser printers/photocopiers

The best way to avoid breathing in unhealthy fumes is to avoid these products where you can. For example, switch out dryer sheets for wool dryer balls and store-bought air fresheners for homemade alternatives. Make your own cleaning products. Use cast iron or stainless steel pans.

What are some ways you avoid chemical off-gassing in your everyday life?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / bfi

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Your challenge: This week, consider the ways you can avoid off-gassing, whether from new furniture or other sources.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Ideas for Non-Toxic Body Wash

Go Green in 2014: Week 43

I know we've gone over this already, but it's important enough to say again: Everything we put on our bodies is absorbed through the skin - our largest organ - through the pores. And when we take a warm, steamy shower, our pores open to soak up even more of the products we use to clean our bodies.

Although soaps and shower gels are meant for cleaning the skin, they often contain chemicals that pollute our bodies, potentially causing health issues in the long run. So you might feel clean on the outside, but inside is another story.... This doesn't mean you need to completely skip washing up in the shower, though. Don't worry. We're not doomed to a lifetime of body odor in exchange for "going green".

Gentle, non-toxic body wash ideas

There are various green body wash options. Here are just a few of the ideas I have come up with. If you think of others, please share!

1. BomaSense Face & Body Wash. This is what I currently use; it is $15 a bottle, and can be ordered from www.bomasense.com. It may not lather as much as your usual shower gel, but it contains safe and gentle ingredients such as green tea extract, aloe vera gel, and various other nourishing components.
2. Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap. This versatile soap comes in a liquid or a bar. I personally use the liquid for washing my face and washing dishes, and the bar for handwashing in one of my bathrooms, but it can be used as a body wash, as well. You can order it here (affiliate link).
3. Various kitchen ingredients. Yes, you can combine items found in the kitchen and around the house to make your own body wash. I don't have my own recipe, but here's one I found online to share with you: Nourishing Homemade Body Wash from Live Simply.

I'm guessing most of you use a loofah or washcloth to apply your body wash. Personally, I got sick of buying new scrubbies all the time and started using my hands to rub it into my skin. However, after a while I began to miss the skin sloughing effect...so I decided to give dry skin brushing a try.

What is dry skin brushing?

The idea is to use a natural fiber body brush to slough dry skin prior to showering. I purchased an Earth Therapeutics brush from Amazon.com for around $7. Simply use long strokes to brush your skin toward the heart.

Dry brushing has many benefits, including softer, smoother skin. It can help to get your circulation moving, and some even say it can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. But let's not get into too much detail right now - that's a post for another time!

If you don't have a skin brush, you can always go back to Week 15, when I shared a homemade body scrub recipe for naturally smooth skin.

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Disclosure: This post may contain some affiliate links, but all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, try out a green, non-toxic body wash in the shower.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

How & Why to Ditch Disposable Sandwich Bags for Cloth

Go Green in 2014: Week 42

It's late in the day once again, due to the fact that I was out of town again this weekend and didn't have a chance to work on this post until after work today. I'm going to try to keep it short because, well, it's getting late and I'm either getting sick or my allergies are flaring up from being in Minnesota (I already drank some honey tea...and I'm sure I'll be attempting a few more natural remedies before this is over).

Anyway. I wanted to cover reusable cloth sandwich and snack baggies with this post. Does your household go through a lot of plastic baggies? Between sandwiches, snacks, and various other items, it's easy to burn through an entire box before you know it. I had recently started bringing snacks to work in reusable plastic containers, but they are kind of bulky, so I decided to order some reusable cloth baggies from Etsy. Here's a link to the shop I ordered from (Disclaimer: I am not compensated in any way for endorsing this shop).

Why use cloth instead of plastic?

The biggest reason to ditch disposable sandwich bags for cloth is to reduce waste. Some people go through several plastic bags daily, which can really add up quickly...and then there's the money it costs to replenish your supply. Plus, the baggies I bought are just adorable. ;)

How can you make the switch?

If you're really ambitious, you can make your own baggies. However, I still haven't purchased a sewing machine, so I ordered mine online (see the link above). There are tons of different online shops with various styles and patterns. The baggies I ordered came in sets of two - one sandwich bag and one snack bag. I ordered four sets.

I've only been using them for a week, but they work great. They are made with colorful cotton fabric; white nylon lines the inside; and they have Velcro (hook and loop) closures. To reuse, simply turn them inside out, shake out the crumbs, and wipe clean.

Do you use cloth sandwich and snack bags? Or do you have a different solution for reducing the number of plastic baggies you use? To be honest, I won't completely do away with the plastic. I like using them for freezing food, and it's nice to be able to throw away the plastic after thawing the food. But every little bit helps when it comes to reducing waste.

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Your challenge: This week, consider the ways you can reduce the number of plastic baggies you use and try to implement them into your daily routine.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Quick, Natural Trash Can Freshenening Tip

Go Green in 2014: Week 41

Because it's so late in the day already, I'm going to keep this post short and sweet with a quick tip for naturally freshening the trash can.

As you've surely noticed, the garbage can start to get pretty stinky as it starts to fill up. We have recently downsized to a smaller can, which helps because we have to take out the trash more frequently. However, because we started recycling at the beginning of the year, we throw less in the garbage, so it still take a few days (and sometimes even a week!) to fill up the bin.

The recipe I'm going to share contains one ingredient only: baking soda. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into the bottom of a fresh liner to help absorb odors. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lemon or lavender would be great) along with the baking soda, if you so desire. And if it starts to smell before the can is full, simply add a little more baking soda.

Easy, right?

I've used this trick for quite a while now, and it works great. Let me know how it works for you!

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Michael Allen Smith

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Your challenge: This week, use baking soda, and possibly a couple drops of your favorite essential oil, to absorb stinky garbage odors and freshen the trash can.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Ways to Conserve Energy While Heating and Cooling the Home

Go Green in 2014: Week 40

Where I live, temperatures have been dropping quickly, and we have already had to turn on the heat. It certainly won't be long before winter arrives!

As you've surely noticed, energy bills can get quite a bit higher in the summer and winter, when we run the air conditioning and heat more often. At least, that's the case here. One of the bad things about living in a larger house is the cost of heating and cooling it. Fortunately, there are several ways you can save money and energy while heating and cooling the home.

Heating the home

Following are a few ways to conserve energy while heating your home in the winter.

1. Keep the thermostat at 69 degrees. Rather than turning up the heat when it gets cold, and turning it down when it gets hot, keep it at a steady, slightly low temperature. It takes a lot of energy to re-heat the house once it cools down. Yes, sometimes it gets a little cool in our house, but I just keep lots of blankets around!
2. Cover older, drafty windows with heavy curtains. Standing next to certain windows in our house, I can feel a cold draft coming in, which means the furnace will have to work harder to maintain the heat. Heavy curtains can definitely help keep the cold out. In my dining room, I actually have sheer spring curtains, which I switch out for heavier draperies in the fall and winter.
3. Leave the oven door open after baking. I know it doesn't really help heat the house a ton, but it makes more sense to release the warm air into the kitchen, rather than trapping it inside the oven.

Cooling the home

Here are some ways to conserve energy while cooling your home in the summer.

1. Keep the thermostat at 72 degrees. Or, if you have a window air conditioning unit, try to avoid running it at a higher speed or cooler temperature than you really need. Face fans toward open windows to blow the warm air out.
2. Open windows during the coolest times of the day. Then close them, as well as the curtains or blinds, to block out the sun and heat during the hottest part of the day.
3. Cook during cooler times of the day. Or, come up with meal ideas that require minimal to no cooking (how about grilling outside instead?). The stove and oven can really heat up the house in the summer.

When it comes to conserving energy while heating and cooling your home, it is important to make sure your home is sealed against the elements. That may mean replacing old windows with newer models. It may mean insulating and caulking where needed.

What are some methods you use to conserve energy while heating and cooling the house? Have you considered installing solar panels?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Michael Coghlan

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Your challenge: This week, begin incorporating natural home heating or cooling methods into your daily life.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Go Green by Driving Less

Go Green in 2014: Week 39

While cars create convenience and comfort, they also come with their own set of problems. Why aren't most cars today very "green"? Let's take a look at a few reasons we should try to reduce the amount of driving we do.

Electric Car

Reasons to cut back on driving

Why is it a good idea to drive as little as possible?

• Gasoline emits pollution, which is bad news for us and for the environment. By reducing the amount of driving you do, you are also reducing air pollution, which could help slow down climate change and disease.
• Gasoline costs money, and every time you drive somewhere, you are burning money - literally. By cutting back on your driving, you will have to spend less money on refilling the tank.
• The less you drive, the less you have to spend on automobile maintenance. And if you don't have a car at all, you will have no maintenance fees whatsoever. Of course, it's not always feasible to completely do away with our cars, which may be our main method of transportation, whether we like it or not....

Ways to go green by driving less

Find an alternative to driving anytime you can, and you will not only save money on gas, but you will be taking a step toward saving the environment from a little more pollution.

1. Walk whenever possible. Not only is it green, but this light form of exercise is healthier than you might realize.
2. Ride your bike. Again, this is a healthy way to go green.
3. Take public transportation. Multiple people riding in one vehicle is an efficient way to travel.
4. Carpool when possible. Again, even riding in a car with one other person is beneficial to everyone.
5. Telecommute. Can you do your work from home? You won't have to travel at all this way.
6. Consider an electric car. They are starting to become more and more popular.

Skateboard, roller skate, ride an electric scooter...what are some more ways you can cut back on the amount of driving you do?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Alan Trotter

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Your challenge: This week, try to cut back on your driving whenever you can with one or more of the above ideas.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Go Green by Going Paperless

Go Green in 2014: Week 38

These days, most companies offer paperless billing, as well as ways to easily pay your bills without sending a check in the mail.

What is paperless billing?

As I'm sure most of you already know, paperless billing is simply a way to receive your bills without actually getting a paper statement in the mail. This is an option that allows you to reduce waste - and that stack of mail that keeps piling up on the kitchen counter! It also saves businesses money on paper and ink.

I am not completely paperless when it comes to receiving my bills, but I have been working on it. I would say the majority of our bills are paid without receiving anything in the mail. Of course, there are still companies that don't offer that option, but any amount of reduced waste is a good thing.

Ways to go green with bill paying

Some businesses offer automatic bill pay on a certain day each month; my car payments actually come directly out of my check. Even if the business itself doesn't offer this option, most banks do. Otherwise, you can either call the company to pay a bill directly over the phone, or you can pay through their website.

What are some ways you pay your bills without actually writing out a check and mailing it out?

Potential drawbacks...

There are a few bills that I still pay with a paper check, simply because it's easier or costs less - even if it does waste paper. :( Perhaps you have trouble remembering how to log into your account every month, or the website is difficult to navigate, or they charge an arm and a leg to pay your bill online. In these instances, it might make more sense to send a payment in the mail.

Even though I'm not completely paperless yet, I feel pretty good about how far I've come. How about you?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Filippo Diotalevi

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Your challenge: This week, think about the ways you can go paperless with bill paying.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Ideas for Non-Toxic Lip Balm

Go Green in 2014: Week 37

I use lip balm several times a day, and I'll admit I'm addicted to Carmex. I love it. However, there are plenty of kitchen products that can be used instead of store-bought Chapstick or whatever lip balm you use. They are more "natural" and are, of course, less expensive. You can even follow a recipe to make homemade lip moisturizer, and possibly tint it with natural food-based dyes.

Lip balm alternatives in your own kitchen

If you're looking for a basic, no-fuss moisturizer for your lips, consider one of these ideas.

1. Coconut oil. Keep a jar of coconut oil in your bathroom, or just pour a little bit into a smaller container to make it portable.
2. Tallow balm. Made with 9 parts beef fat and 1 part olive oil, tallow balm is easy to make and is hydrating for the entire body.
3. Shea butter. It's rock solid at room temperature, but use your finger to warm it a little, then spread it over your lips.

What else have you used in place of Chapstick to moisturize your lips?

Recipes for homemade lip balm

Blend together some simple, non-toxic ingredients for a yummy scented or even tinted lip balm.

1. Three Simple Homemade Lip Balms, by Crunchy Betty. Luscious lavender, coco-rosey, and minty chocolate.
2. DIY Burt's Bees-Style Lip Balm, from Broke and Healthy. Only eight cents per tube.
3. Honey-Orange Lip Balm, from Brilliantly Bland. Make it on fifteen minutes with just four ingredients.

Where to buy empty lip balm tubes

You can use small, reusable pots like in the picture (my husband bought me these from WalMart!); you can reuse old tubes (scraped clean and sanitized by boiling for a few minutes); or you can buy them brand new. If you can't procure new containers locally, you can order them online for pennies apiece.

Fifty White Lip Balm Containers (approximately $6.17)

Please recycle your used containers!

Hint: Homemade lip balm makes great gifts, and the holidays are coming up!

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**Disclosure: Although this post may contain affiliate links, all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, think about switching from your old lip balm of choice to a safer alternative.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Green Ideas to Clean the Refrigerator

Go Green in 2014: Week 36

The refrigerator is prone to sticky spills and the odor of food that has been in there way too long. This doesn't mean we need to use harsh chemicals to get it clean and fresh-smelling. It's easy to use green cleaning methods on the refrigerator.

There's not a whole lot to say on the subject of cleaning the fridge, so let's get started on some of my favorite green tips.

Green clean the refrigerator's interior

For minor spills or a light wipe-down, a damp microfiber cloth (affiliate link) works well. If you don't have one of those, a clean cotton cloth will also work. You shouldn't use cleaning products of any type with microfiber cloths, because they were designed to work without, but a solution of 1 part vinegar and 1 part water will help remove smudges and remove funky odors from the fridge. Wipe with a cotton rag; rinse with warm water if needed.

Stubborn spots can be scrubbed with a little baking soda and vinegar. Simply sprinkle a little baking soda onto the area, spray with vinegar, and scrub with a rag.

Lemons can also help remove off odors from the refrigerator while leaving behind a lemony-fresh scent. Squeeze a little lemon juice into a bowl of water and wipe down the inside of your fridge with the mixture. For stubborn spots, take half a lemon and rub it directly onto the area; rinse with warm water.

Green clean the refrigerator's exterior

Cleaning the exterior of your refrigerator should be pretty simple. A dry or damp microfiber cloth will help remove smudges easily. If you need something a little stronger, you can spray it down with a half vinegar-half water solution, wipe it with lemon water, or try a green all-purpose spray.

Green All-Purpose Spray Recipe

Keep the refrigerator smelling fresh

Although it may be common knowledge, a small box of baking soda left inside the refrigerator can help absorb food odors and keep it smelling fresh. If you didn't already know this little bit of knowledge, well, now you do!

Another way to keep your refrigerator smelling citrusy clean is to cut a lemon in half and leave it on one of the shelves or on the door, so every time you open it up, you will get a whiff of fresh lemon.

What are some tips and tricks you have learned for keeping the refrigerator clean and fresh-smelling?

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Goedeker

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**Disclosure: Although this post may contain affiliate links, all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, clean your refrigerator using green cleaning products.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Green Fall Cleaning Product Checklist for the Bathroom

Fall is a great time to do a little extra deep cleaning in the home - especially in the bathroom - even if you clean it regularly. Even though I try to keep my bathrooms clean all year-round, it seems they always need a little more attention a few times throughout the year, particularly around spring and fall cleaning times. 

What kind of cleaners to you use for scrubbing down the bathroom? Do you typically use commercial cleaning products that are heavy on the chemicals? Although they may do a great job cleaning your house, why not use cleaning products that are healthier to use and safer for the environment. 

Try the five following recipes for fall cleaning in the bathroom:

1. All-Purpose Spray

 

Combine 1 tsp. Borax and 2 cups warm water in a spray bottle. Add 2 Tbsp. distilled white vinegar, ½ tsp natural liquid dish soap, 10 drops lavender essential oil and 5 drops rosemary oil. Shake well before each use. 

2. Natural Toilet Cleaner

 

Stir together ¾ cup baking soda and ½ cup water in small bowl. Add ½ cup castile soap and a few drops of tea tree oil, then stir again. Pour the mixture into a condiment squirt bottle, cover the tip and shake well before using. Squirt the solution under the toilet rim. Let soak ten minutes and scrub the toilet with a brush, then flush it clean. 

OR if you're short on time, check out this two-ingredient green toilet cleaner recipe

3. Tub and Shower Cleaner

 

Combine 1/3 cup Borax, 1/3 cup baking soda, 1 tsp. liquid dish soap, 5 drops rosemary essential oil and 5 drops tea tree oil in a container. You will end up with a damp powder rather than a paste. Dampen the tub or shower with water and apply the cleaner with a sponge. Scrub and rinse clean. 

4. Heavy Duty Grout Cleaner

 

Mix ½ cup Borax, ½ cup baking soda, 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar, 5 drops thyme essential oil, and 5 drops tea tree oil together until they form a smooth paste. Scrub the paste into the grout using a toothbrush. Let it sit for fifteen minutes then rinse clean. Make sure to wear rubber gloves because, although green, some of these ingredients can irritate the skin. 

5. Window and Mirror Spray

 

Combine 2 cups water with ¼ cup vinegar and ½ tsp. liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use. Spray the solution onto windows and mirrors, and wipe them dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. 

Before you get started on the bathroom, make sure to check these five green cleaning products off your fall cleaning checklist. 

Note: This article was previously published at Yahoo! Voices and the rights reverted back to the author when the site closed. 

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Julie G

Ideas to Green Your Bath Time

Go Green in 2014: Week 35

In this post: 

*harmful effects of chemicals in bath products
*green bubble bath alternatives
*removing the chlorine from your bath water

Who doesn't enjoy a nice, relaxing bubble bath?

During my first year in college, Wednesday night was my "bath night". Why Wednesdays, I don't really remember. But I would draw myself a tub full of warm water and pour in the Avon bubbles (either Chocolate Covered Strawberry or Cinnamon Twist if I remember correctly).

Now... I rarely take baths anymore, but when I do, I never use bubbles. The chemicals that make bubble bath "bubbly" are not very nice, and considering that our skin - the largest organ in the human body - soaks up large quantities of these ingredients, I don't think it's a good idea.

What could possibly be so bad about bubble bath?

Let's take one of the ingredients, sodium lauryl sulfate, as an example. This is the compound that makes your bubble bath, shampoo, hand soap, and laundry detergent, among other household products, lather. This is not necessary to get you or your laundry, or anything else, clean. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a known human irritant to the skin, eyes, and lungs. Other concerns may be organ system toxicity and ecotoxicology (source).

Is there such thing as green bubble bath?

Sure, you can purchase bath products that claim to be green and chemical-free, but you should always read the ingredients list before purchasing.

Also, these products will likely cost more than you want to spend. Luckily, there are plenty of inexpensive options. They may not produce bubbles, but they can actually be quite beneficial to your health.

1. Epsom salts. Take a relaxing, green bath with epsom salts, which can get rid of toxins in the body and relax muscles due to the magnesium content in the salts. Magnesium is an essential mineral that our bodies readily absorb through the skin.
2. Magnesium flakes. Or, you could just add magnesium bath flakes (affiliate link) to the water. Not only will they help restore your magnesium levels, but you might notice a relief in aches and pains, improved mood, and healthier skin, among many other benefits.
3. Tea bags. Tea isn't just for drinking! Rather than steeping it in a mug, fill your bathtub with warm water and allow several tea bags to soak before getting in. Try green tea to help your body detox or chamomile for a soothing experience. And in case you missed it a few weeks ago, here are some simple ways you can "green" your tea (and/or coffee) habit.
4. Essential oils. If you miss your scented bubble baths, you can always add a few drops of essential oils for a relaxing, green soak. If your goal is to clear your mind and relax your body, which is usually the case when we take a bath, choose soothing scents, such as lavender, mandarin, and sandalwood.
5. Kitchen ingredients. Did you know that some of the ingredients in your kitchen are great, natural bubble bath replacements? Oatmeal is very soothing and can help calm sunburn, while milk and honey soften and exfoliate the skin.

What are your green bath time favorites?

Removing the chlorine from your bath water

While you are soaking up magnesium, tea, or whatever green bath ingredients you've chosen, your skin is also absorbing the chlorine that is in the water. Just a few weeks ago, I went over how and why you should be filtering your tap water; follow the link for a refresher on the harmful effects of chlorine and ideas for removing it.

If you want to take a bath and haven't had a chance to pick up a water filter yet, add a half cup of baking soda to help neutralize some of the chemicals in your water. As an added benefit, baking soda can promote healing. It can be added to your bath water along with any of the above green bath ingredients.

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Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and those who have diabetes or high blood pressure should consult a doctor before taking a detox bath. Keep the water at a safe temperature; if you begin to feel dizzy, the water may be too hot. Add a little cold water to cool it down.

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**Disclosure: Although this post may contain affiliate links, all opinions are my own.

Your challenge: This week, take some time to yourself with a relaxing, green bath.

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**This post is part of a weekly challenge {Go Green in 2014}, during which the author has challenged herself - and you - to find 52 ways to lead a greener life in 2014. You can follow the weekly posts on this page.**

Top 5 Green Laundry Room Tips

How can you go green in the laundry room? There are various ways. Not only is it healthier to go green with your laundry, but you can potentially save a lot of money. For example, it is less expensive to make your own healthier detergent alternatives, and you will know exactly what is in them, so you know you aren't using dangerous chemicals. 

Try these tips for going green in the laundry room:

1. Make your own detergent

It is very easy to make homemade detergent. You can make either liquid or powder laundry soap--it depends on your personal preference. For either recipe, you will need a bar of soap, washing soda and borax. You will find the green laundry detergent recipes by clicking on the link. 

2. Use less detergent

Whether you make your own laundry detergent or decide to stick with store-bought soap, you probably don't need to use as much as you think. Use half the amount the bottle recommends; too much soap can actually harm your washing machine. 

3. Skip the dryer sheets

They may smell great, but dryer sheets are loaded with yucky chemicals. A healthier option is to buy a couple wool dryer balls (affiliate link) - which last a very long time - to de-wrinkle your laundry, along with a bottle of lavender scented essential oil. Place a few drops of the oil on the wool balls and dry with your laundry. 

4. Hang clothes to dry

Whenever you can, it is much cheaper to hang clothes to dry. This may not always be your best option, however; in these cases, even taking ten minutes off the drying time can save a lot of money. The clothes will be slightly damp, so hang them on a drying rack to finish.

5. Avoid using bleach

Bleach is a very harmful cleaning product. It can burn your skin and lungs and cause long-lasting damage to your body. Instead, try healthier, greener alternatives for whitening laundry. For example, borax is known to help remove stains and it is not harmful. 

There are many ways you can go green in the laundry room, which will assist in keeping you healthy as well as save you money. By making your own laundry products, you know you will be healthier and it will cost a lot less money. 

And for those of you who haven't been following my 2014 green challenge...

Why you should "go green" in the laundry room - plus more ideas for ways to do so!

Note: This article was previously published at Yahoo! Voices and the rights reverted back to the author when the site closed. 

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Daniela Vladimirova