Why you should skip spring cleaning!
It's that time of year where we're busting out of our winter funks. Opening the windows, coming out of hibernation and ready for all the newness of the spring season.
But with spring comes the trend to "spring clean" which for many of us means "over clean" disinfecting with harsh chemical and killing every germ and bacteria we can. While we think we're doing some good, more recent science has taught us that bombing all bacteria is doing way more harm than good. Why? Because 95% of the bacteria out there is not only harmless, but much of it is good for us...in fact...necessary for us to live healthy lives. When we destroy it, we throw the balance out of whack and actually allow the viruses and bad bacteria to get a leg up putting ourselves at grater risk for not only catching every little bug that goes around, but also disrupting our mood, sleep, skin health and hormone balance. Our over-cleaning is over kill and we're suffering because of it.
So this spring, I challenge you to take a gentle approach. Open the windows. Change your air filters. Declutter your closets and organize your junk drawer, but let the good bacteria live!
Here are some of my favorite tips for getting rid of the dirt without disrupting the balance of good bacteria in your body and your environment.
Ditch the bleach and harsh chemical cleaners. And while you're at, those "organic" and "natural" brands we all love from Target really aren't that much better. You don't need them. Try these recipes for your own green cleaning products to get your home sparkling and smelling lovely white protecting the bacteria that were meant to protect you!
All Purpose Cleaner:
Add 1/2 cup white vinegar + 1/2 cup of baking soda to a gallon of warm water. Mix in 5-8 drops of lemon