As the weather turns colder and we start spending more time indoors, autumn is the perfect time to refresh our homes and get ready for the cosiness of the season. But instead of relying on harsh chemicals and plastic-packaged products, why not embrace a more sustainable, plastic-free cleaning routine?
By using eco-friendly cleaning products and natural methods, you can keep your home sparkling while also reducing waste. Harriet’s of Hove has everything you need to create a healthy, plastic-free cleaning regime, so let’s get started with some tips and tricks to make your autumn cleaning routine kinder to the planet.
1. Make Your Own Multi-Purpose Cleaner with Vinegar and Essential Oils
One of the best ways to avoid plastic-packaged cleaning sprays is to make your own. A simple mix of vinegar, water, and essential oils is effective for cleaning most surfaces, from countertops to bathroom tiles.
What You’ll Need:
Vinegar (available as a refill at Harriet’s of Hove)
Water
Essential Oils (Tea Tree, Lemon, or Eucalyptus from Harriet’s of Hove for extra cleaning power)
A reusable spray bottle
How to Make It:
👉🏼 Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a reusable spray bottle.
👉🏼 Add 10-15 drops of your favourite essential oil for fragrance and extra disinfecting power.
👉🏼 Shake well and use on kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and more.
Vinegar is a natural antibacterial agent and works wonders on limescale, while the essential oils leave a fresh, seasonal scent behind.
2. Natural Laundry Routine: Ditch the Plastic Bottles
If your autumn cleaning includes switching out summer clothes or washing heavier fabrics like blankets, make sure you’re keeping it plastic-free! Harriet’s of Hove offers plastic-free laundry solutions that are gentle on both your clothes and the environment.
What to Use:
Refillable Laundry Liquid from SESI, available at Harriet’s of Hove.
Soap Nuts: These natural, plant-based cleaners can be reused multiple times, reducing waste even further.
Essential Oils: Add a few drops of lavender or orange essential oil to your wash for a lovely autumnal scent.
How to Use:
👉🏼 For refillable laundry liquid, bring your container to Harriet’s for a refill and use it as you would any conventional detergent.
👉🏼 For soap nuts, pop 4-6 nuts into a small cotton bag (also available at Harriet’s), toss it into your washing machine, and let the natural saponins do their work.
👉🏼 Add a couple of drops of essential oil for a fresh, natural scent.
Soap nuts can be reused for 4-5 washes, making them a cost-effective, zero-waste alternative to traditional detergent.
3. Scrub Away with Natural Scourers and Cleaning Brushes
Autumn means more time in the kitchen, which can result in more scrubbing. Instead of reaching for plastic sponges and scourers, Harriet’s of Hove stocks a range of plastic-free cleaning tools that are durable, effective, and kind to the planet.
Swap These:
Plastic Scrubbing Pads ➡️ Compostable Loofah Pads: These are great for washing dishes or cleaning surfaces and can be composted at the end of their life.
Plastic Dish Brushes ➡️ EcoCoconut Brushes: Made from sustainably sourced coconut fibre, these brushes tackle grime without scratching surfaces.
Why Choose Natural:
They’re biodegradable, meaning you’re reducing plastic waste.
They’re long-lasting and durable, saving you money in the long run.
4. Clean Your Floors Naturally Without Plastic
Cleaning floors, whether they’re wooden, tile, or carpeted, can be done just as effectively with natural ingredients. Harriet’s of Hove stocks all the supplies you need to make an all-natural, plastic-free floor cleaner.
DIY Floor Cleaner Recipe:
Baking Soda: Great for scrubbing tiles and grout.
Castile Soap (available in-store): Mix this with warm water for a gentle, effective cleaner for wood and tiles.
Vinegar: For stubborn stains, use a mix of vinegar and water on tiled floors.
How to Use:
👉🏼 For wooden floors, mix a tablespoon of castile soap with warm water and mop as usual.
👉🏼 For tiles, sprinkle baking soda over the floor and scrub with a damp mop or cloth. Follow up with vinegar for any tough spots.
Keep it seasonal by adding a few drops of cinnamon or clove essential oil to your mop water for a warming autumnal scent.
5. Keep Your Air Fresh with Natural Room Sprays
No need for plastic-packaged air fresheners when you can make your own! A natural room spray not only smells great but also avoids synthetic chemicals.
What You’ll Need:
Distilled Water
Witch Hazel or Vodka (helps to disperse the oils)
Essential Oils (try orange, cinnamon, and clove for a cosy autumn scent)
How to Make It:
👉🏼 Combine 1 cup of distilled water, 2 tablespoons of witch hazel or vodka, and 15-20 drops of essential oil.
👉🏼 Shake well and spray around your home whenever you need a refresh.
6. Clean Your Windows Without Plastic
Autumn sunshine can reveal streaky windows, but you don’t need to rely on plastic bottles of window cleaner to get the job done. A simple vinegar and water mix can do wonders.
How to Clean Your Windows:
👉🏼 Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a reusable spray bottle.
👉🏼 Spray directly onto the glass and wipe clean with a reusable cloth (Harriet’s stocks some eco-friendly options).
For extra shine, buff the glass with a crumpled newspaper or a microfibre cloth.
A Fresh, Sustainable Home for Autumn
This autumn, as you refresh your home and prepare for the colder months, why not make your cleaning routine more eco-friendly? With Harriet’s of Hove, it’s easy to swap plastic-packaged products for sustainable, refillable alternatives. By using natural ingredients and ditching plastic, you’ll create a healthier environment for your home, your family, and the planet.
Remember, all the ingredients you need—like vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, and soap—are available at Harriet’s of Hove, alongside eco-friendly cleaning tools and refillable liquids. 🍁🍂
Happy autumn cleaning!