Eco-Friendly Apartment Cleaning Solutions

The benefits of living green are becoming more apparent every day. Reducing energy and water usage can save you money, while choosing eco-friendly cleaning solutions cuts down on the number of harmful chemicals in local water supplies. Greener cleaning solutions can also protect your health by minimizing your exposure to potentially toxic chemicals right at home.

Tile Scrub

You can scrub those shower and bath tiles into a glistening shine without the need for unsavory chemicals. Create your own tile scrub using baking soda and a mild dish detergent—simply combine 1/2 baking soda with a few drops of soap and mix. You’ll get a creamy texture like cake frosting, which you can use on a sponge to clean away dirt, grime, and soap or mineral residue. Rinse with clean water when you’re done for a sparkling clean bathtub or shower. The easiest way to use this scrub is to make a small batch each time you need it; however, you can store this product in an airtight jar if you add a teaspoon of vegetable glycerin to the mix, which will keep it moist.

Drain Cleaner

Keeping your apartment’s drains running smoothly doesn’t require a harsh, caustic chemical solution. First, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down your drain. Follow it with 1/2 cup white vinegar. Once these two ingredients mix, you’ll see plenty of foaming action. This foam will eat away at any organic residue that’s clogging your drain. Close the drain or cover it with a damp cloth for five to ten minutes, then open the drain and pour a pot of boiling water down to flush away any remaining mixture or residue. You can use this solution on a slow drain or clean your drains periodically to keep them performing as they should. Keep in mind that stubborn drains may need a few applications before the entire clog is cleared.

Window Cleaner

Clean windows allow natural light inside while providing you with an unhindered view of the city beyond your apartment community. In an empty spray bottle, mix 1/4-1/2 teaspoon mild dish soap with three tablespoons vinegar and two cups of water. Distilled water is best, as tap water might leave streaks or spots on the glass. Shake the bottle gently to mix the ingredients and you’re ready to go! Combine this cleaner with a rubber squeegee and microfiber cloth to get professional results.

All-Purpose Cleaner

To create your own eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner, all you’ll need is an empty spray bottle, 1/2 teaspoon washing soda, and a bit of liquid dish soap. Mix the washing soda with a few drops of dish soap and add two cups of hot water, then shake the bottle until the washing soda appears completely dissolved. This spray is safe for any surface and can be wiped away with a sponge or rag. If you’re looking for an all-purpose cleaner, deodorizer, and disinfecting solution that can be used around your apartment, mix equal parts white vinegar with clean water. Another great germ-killing solution (with a more pleasant smell) is a simple mixture of lavender essential oil and water. This spray will last indefinitely and doesn’t need to be wiped away.

We know you value the environment, because we do, too—that’s why Carmel Pacific Ridge uses green construction and eco-friendly materials. Are you ready to learn more about our resort-style apartment community with stunning views of San Diego and the Bay? Check us out on the web for floor plans, availability, and full list of upscale amenities.