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Clean in a Truly Green Way and Protect the Environment Do you know the benefits of spring cleaning?  Taking time to go through a household and clean and organize is an extremely effective way to find clothes, decor, or other supplies that can be donated and re-purposed.   However, not all cleaning supplies are good for the environment.  In fact, some cleaning products can infiltrate and severely damage grass, shrubbery, and waterways.  In order to avoid harmful chemicals, it is possible to purchase green cleaners.  It is also easy and economical to create efficient cleaners from everyday supplies... Some common supplies you can easily make effective cleaners from include: Distilled white vinegar (sold in the cooking section of most supermarkets), Baking soda, Olive oil, Microfiber cleaning cloths, and Newspaper With the above supplies, here are some ideas of safe, green cleaners: Cleaning Glass:  Mix 1/4 cup vinegar with one quart of water in...

Create a Mini Garden for an Apartment It is officially springtime- spring cleaning is a must!  Clear out old clothes, furniture, and supplies and donate resources no longer needed. Once spring cleaning is completed, a nice spring project for the whole family would be to build and maintain a garden either inside or apartment or outside on the balcony or patio area.  Not all gardens need to be the same size, they can fit a variety of needs and lifestyles. Some examples of ideal garden styles for an apartment include: 1) Inside- Interior Design: Use flowers and plants to spruce up apartment interiors.  Some plants, like the spider plant or bamboo plant, do well in interiors with little to no direct sunlight.  Bare tables, bookshelves, or under windows are great locations to place plants to spruce an apartment.  For added flair, plant herbs like basil in pots arranged in your kitchen. 2) Outside- Traditional Garden: Utilize an outdoor patio or balcony place as an a...

Three Eco-Friendly Ways to "Spring Ahead" This Year Don't forget: Daylight Savings Time begins at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 13 and lasts until November!  Set all clocks ahead to "spring forward" for the springtime and summer seasons! Benjamin Franklin originally suggested Daylight Savings as a way to gain an additional hour of sunlight primarily for farmers to make the most of the day.  In 2016, try to use the extra hour to practice green living initiatives in your every day life.  Some examples include: 1) Set Thermostats Accordingly : Now that it is springtime, remember to adjust the household thermostat.  Even though it might be chilly in the mornings or a little warm in the afternoons, don't turn on the heat or blast the air  for just an hour or two.  Try to turn off the thermostat and open up windows for some natural ventilation. 2) Use Extra Sunlight For Green Initiatives : Do you regularly drive to work?  Now that there is an extra hour of sun...