Re-think, Reduce, Re-use and Recycle!

It's about changing habits... 

That's right we are 'conditioned' with our habits, it's only natural and human nature for most of us.  However you can change!   

If you haven't already done so we encourage you to try to incorporate simple changes into your daily routines.  The smallest of green changes often begin with daily routines in your home! 

Here's a small list you can begin with: 

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Home Cleaning Supplies...               

Here's a fresh idea...  Opt out of your 'regular' commercial cleaner!  Instead you can use 'Green' environmental friendly cleaners that work just as well and often better than conventional chemical brands!  

Try these...

1. Baking Soda

   • It's natural abrasiveness cleans counters, tubs and sinks.  It also absorbs odors and when mixed with vinegar also clears clogged drains

2. Lemon Juice 

   • Polishes metals (for real!), freshens your drains (works well on garbage disposals as does orange peels) and brightens your laundry. 

3. Vinegar and Water mixed

   • Cleans mirrors, glass and even hard wood floors!

4. Young Living Thieves Essential Oil

   • Do you know about Thieves Oil?

   • It's a 100% natural essential oil blend capable of cleaning, killing bacteria and even mold!                                                                                    

 

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Indoor Air Pollution...                                               

Did you know? Indoor air pollution can often be many times worse than outdoors!  Why? Dangerous chemicals such as formaldehyde and VOC's (volatile organic compounds) may be lurking in your home.  These culprits can evaporate from your homes decor and also from cleaning products. 

What can I do to avoid exposure? Ask before you buy...

• Choose low VOC paints, cleansers etc

• Don't purchase products containing formaldehyde 

  • Often in hardwood plywood paneling & medium density fiber boards

• Open your windows, and ventilate your homes

  • Use mechanical/electronic air cleaning devices, with filters

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Your Drinking Water...

Clean and refreshing...                                                                  

Does your water contain harmful chemicals? 

It is hard or soft? Did you know that it is Federally mandated that our water supply systems provide the public with annual reports analyzing the water quality? 

How can I tell what my water quality is? You can test it yourself with a kit!   Check out these inks...

• Buy a water testing kit

• Check out the EPA's Safewater website 

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Let's Talk about Mold...

It's true, mold and mildew can create health problems...  The mold spores thrive in damp places such as standing water and dripping or leaky faucets.  The EPA recognizes and warns the public about the dangerous health issues related to mold.  

What can you do to help prevent mold? 

• Fix leaky pipes, faucets and other water drainage and drips. 
• Track the source of standing water and correct the problem.
  • Basement water? 
    • Does your rainwater drain away from the house? It should.
  • Empty dehumidifiers, air conditioners and even refrigerator drip trays

What actually cleans and also destroys mold re-growth?

Beware! There are many so called 'mold' products on the market that claim to clean and destroy mold.   Also you must wear personal protective equipment (skin, eye, respiratory protection, plus disposable clothing is recommended) when cleaning mold. Check the web, there are many reputable sources for fact based information on health hazards and clean up.  Here are a few links... 

American Lung Association

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Wikipedia

Mold Health Issues

Mold Growth, Assessment and Remediation

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It's Dusty in here!

Dust mites thrive in windowsills, floor boards, bedding etc.  Using a dampened cloth and mop to clean works well.  Also for best results use a vacuum that has a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air.)

Remember to wash bedding, clothing and even toys once a week, drying them in the hot sun will allow the ultraviolet rays to destroy those pesky dust mites and germs!

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How does your garden grow?  Is your garden bug free? Or how about your lawn, is it green and lusciously inviting?  If not you can do this with out using insecticides, herbicides or fungicides.  With little effort let your fingers do the walking (click-it) and search on the web for less toxic means! You'll find some interesting alternative methods! 

For example - Try these suggestions...

• Lady bugs can control aphids.
• Use electronic means to ward off mosquitoes

Try doing a Google search today and search away for your alternative gardening methods... 

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How many pests do you have? Looking for a green  pest control company? Look no further! Contact Curt or Tonya at Heartland Pest Control and let them take care of all your pest problems!

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Cedar Rapids-Iowa City Corridor click here for recycling links!