Spring is in full swing, so fling open those doors and windows, chase the dust bunnies that have multiplied over the winter months, and prune your possessions by setting aside piles for your garage sale and/or a hefty Goodwill donation. 
Of course, we’re talking about that centuries old tradition of spring cleaning. (BONUS: If you really want to get serious about things, follow these spring cleaning checklists.)
I just took a continuing education class called “Eco Labeling” during the (appropriately named) Spring Thing at Decorative Center Dallas, and it got me thinking: Now that we’re buying and specifying more eco-friendly furniture, finishes, furnishings, and equipment for our clients and ourselves, how do we clean them in an eco-friendly way” After a little searching, I found a few solutions…
• Ecover is a very international manufacturer of products kind to the earth. From delicate wash detergent to heavy duty hand cleaner, they’ve got it all: limescale remover, toilet bowl cleaner, floor cleaner, laundry detergent, and dishwashing soap.
• Seventh Generation has an extensive website that not only features their product lines, but also provides information (including an online subscription newsletter) about how you can extend these principles into your overall lifestyle.
• Method is probably the most familiar line to Americans, as it has been carried in the much-loved Target stores for several years now. Besides cleaners, they also offer tools such as a mop and microfiber pads, as well as aromatherapy type products to make your home smell sweet after you’ve sweat buckets to get out the grime.
If you want to leave the sweating to someone else, you can pay to be green:
• In San Francisco, California, USA: Greenway Maid
• In Phoenix, California, USA: EarthMaids
• In Sacramento, California, USA: Mrs. Smith’s Green Cleaning Service
• In New York, New York, USA: Zen Home
• In London, UK: Eco Express Cleaning
With the current momentum, I can only surmise that the markets for green cleaning will grow. It looks like the term “green thumb” might just take on a new meaning soon.
Laura McDonald, ASID / IIDA
Interior Designer / Founder
laura@plinthandchintz.com
