ECO TIPS Kitchen

1. Clean Green!
Kitchens get greasy and grimy, but so many kitchen cleaners are full of toxic chemicals and disinfectants that just aren’t good for the earth.  I like to use all natural cleansers that you can easily find at the grocery store. I fill a reusable spray bottle about 3Ž4 full of white vinegar, and fill the bottle the rest of the way with water. I use this blend to clean everything from my countertops to the stove. If you need something a little stronger, halve a lemon and sprinkle baking soda onto the surface. Use the lemon like you would a sponge to rub the baking soda around the stain. Baking soda is naturally abrasive, so it will help remove any caked on grime you might have.

2. Unpackage you life!
I love the convenience of packaged salads and meals just as much as the next working mom. But pre-packaged food requires a whole lot of plastic, and a whole lot of energy. Not to mention, how sure are you exactly what's in your food unless you make it yourself! I know it might take a few extra minutes, but while you're making dinner for the family one night, chop a few extra vegetables to store in a reusable container for a great stirfry. Or, make a little bit of extra salad to take to work the next day so that you don't have to buy one at the market. 

3. Toss the Paper!
Paper towels are very convenient for cleaning messes in a snap, but they are so wasteful! Try switching to cloth or microfiber kitchen towels instead. They are soft, absorbent, and reusable. Just throw them into the wash with your other laundry and use again. Love paper napkins? Try some cheap and cheerful cloth napkins from Etsy! You may feel like they’re not worth the expense, but over time you’ll save money (and the earth) by not buying paper products.

4. Support the bees! 
All over the world, honeybee colonies are collapsing due to insecticides, disease, and harmful chemicals. We need these little guys to pollinate our food! While you may be afraid to start a colony of your own in your backyard, you can do your part by supporting your local beekeepers. Look for vendors selling organic honey at your local farmer's market. A big spoonful of organic honey in your green tea? Delish!

Do you have any tips for greening your kitchen? Do share!