Going green: Easy and eco

Money is tight, prices are going up on everything. Go green even on a tight budget. Some easy money saving tips for eco-minded families.

MAKE YOUR OWN GREEN HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS:

~ Stop buying harsh chemical cleaners, make your own. Better for the environment, your health, and pocketbook. Cleaners cost a lot. Four simple ingredients keep your house sparkling. Probably have them in your house right now; lemon juice, vinegar, EVOO-extra virgin olive oil, and baking soda.

ALL PURPOSE HOUSEHOLD CLEANER – Mix vinegar and water together(cup Vin. to a gallon water), the ratio is not precise. Depends on how strong smelling you want your cleaner to be. Great for bathrooms, tiles, tub rings, toilet bowel , floors, and to wipe down appliances.

PASTE SCRUB – Combine one cup lemon juice and 1/2 cup baking soda, works great on hard water deposits. Play with ingredients amounts, get the right consistency for you.

FURNITURE POLISH – Combine cup OVOO and a dash of lemon juice together.

JOIN A CO-OP OR SHOP AT A WHOLE FOOD STORE:

~ Many food staples are available in organic bulk options. Start buying brown rice, steel cut oats, whole wheat flour, couscous, dried fruits, granola, seeds, sugar, and cereal in bulk. You will get a lot more bang for your buck.

~ Purchase eco-friendly organically made soaps, detergents, and shampoo in bulk. Cut down use of petroleum based plastic waste, use reusable containers, bring back and refill them.

FILTER WATER:

~ Stop buying individual water. Not all plastic is recyclable. Purchase a water filter, and have everyone use a reusable water bottle. Keep filtered water on hand in your fridge, add a few lemon slices, give it some yummy flavor.

GET BACK TO THE BASICS:

~ Don’t run unnecessary household appliances. Was your dishes by hand and hang your laundry out to dry. If you need and appliance only purchase Energy Star rated appliances. They use less energy and are better for the environment.

WATCH YOUR CONSUMER CONSUMPTION:

~ Avoid putting yourself in situations where you can be tempted to buy the hottest/newest “IT” item. Many household items can have a second life. Encourage your family to come up with ways to reuse items that you might otherwise have carelessly tossed out.

~ Visit secondhand shops, donate your good clothing, and pick yourself up a “new” outfit while you are there. Secondhand shops have great deals on great stuff. Many clothing items still have tags on them.

VOLUNTEER:

~ Local charities need your help. Give the gift of your time, household items you do not want anymore, and money, if it you can. Items and money are tax deductible.

~ Get up and get active. Cut down your entertainment expenses, join a local outdoor club and help maintain trails. You will get a workout and save money. Enjoying nature is free!

DON’T DRIVE WHEN YOU CAN WALK:

~ If you can walk or ride a bike, do so. You will save gas, lessen your carbon footprint, and keep yourself fit.

~ Combine errands. Instead of running one errand each day, try to combine them. Make a list, get organized, and only grocery shop once a week. If you run out, make do.