Green Dusting Ideas for the Home

Go Green in 2014: Week 23

Ugh. Dust! Seems like you can remove it one day, and the next day, it's already starting to build up again. With all the dusting you might be doing (not often enough, if you're like me!), any chemicals that are in your spray are ending up in the air and on your furniture, potentially causing indoor pollution.

As long as we have to dust, it might as well be done using safe, non-toxic cleaning solutions. First, let's go over a few ideas for green dusting techniques. Then I'll share with you a few natural ideas for polishing your furniture.

Green dusting techniques

• Microfiber cloths. These split-hair cloths work like a magnet to attract dirt. They can be used either dry or wet for dusting. Avoid using cleaning products on microfiber cloths, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for care.
• Vacuum cleaner attachments. While you are vacuuming the floors, might as well use the hose and any attachments to suck up the layer of dirt from any dusty surfaces. It's quick and easy, and leaves no harmful chemicals behind.
• Green dusting spray. It's super easy to make your own dusting solution: In a spray bottle, combine one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with two cups of water, and shake well. If desired, you can squeeze some lime juice or lemon essential oil in it for a citrusy aroma.

Green Dusting Tips for the Home (link)

Green furniture polishing ideas

Is your furniture looking, not only dusty, but dull as well? Try these green ideas for furniture polish.

• Mix together in a small bowl: 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 3 drops olive oil, 10 drops lemon essential oil. Dip a recycled cotton cloth into the mixture and wipe onto hard surfaces.
• Mix together in a spray bottle: 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon lemon oil or lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil. Shake well and spray onto hard surfaces, removing the excess with a clean cotton cloth.
• Mix together in a spray bottle: 1/3 cup water, 1/2 tablespoon liquid castile soap, 16 drops essential oil (your choice). Shake well and spray onto hard surfaces, removing the excess with a clean cotton cloth.

Tip: Test any these recipes on an inconspicuous area of your furniture before using it on the entire surface.

Dusting may not be a fun chore, but at least you can feel good about it when you're using safe, non-toxic methods to dust and polish hard surfaces in your house. What's your favorite green dusting idea for the home?

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*Disclaimer: I bought all of these products with my own money, and have not received compensation of any kind to review them. All opinions in this article are my own.

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

Your challenge: This week, dust your house without the use of toxic chemical cleaners.

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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.**