The CleanSuds Blog
Where education and truthful facts are easy to come by.
Green Materials You Should Use When Building a Home
There has been a greater push recently in the direction of being more environmentally conscious. Those trends have extended to the home construction industry. Environmentally-sensitive homeowners want their homes to be built using greener production methods and materials. Fortunately, there are multiple options available when it comes to green materials you can use when building a home.
Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood is wood that has already been used for various purposes and has since been removed and discarded. This can be wood from structures like factories, barns, warehouses, winecasts, and more. It is often highly desirable thanks to its unique appearance and the history it contains. Using reclaimed wood when building a home is a quintessential form of recycling, repurposing and upcycling old, discarded wood material for use in a home. Reclaimed wood is durable, strong, and stable, making it ideal for home construction. It is especially useful for flooring and furniture, thanks to the time it’s already spent weathering and aging.
Recycled Steel
Wood isn’t the only material that is often recycled for use in home construction. Steel is 98% recyclable, and can retain its properties throughout repeated use. Because steel in home construction is produced with a specific purpose in mind, the amount of waste generated is minimal, and there is little to no on-site steel waste generated. It’s incredibly strong and resists decay and deterioration. It can be used in steel beams and other internal supports. The recyclability doesn’t end with its use in your home either. If the home is demolished and the steel removed, it can once again be recycled and repurposed for further use.
Sustainable Insulation Options
There are a variety of sustainable insulation options that you can use to maintain ideal temperatures within your home. Wool is one example of a highly sustainable insulation option. Sourced from sheep, this option has a sustainable source, is safe to handle, and is relatively easy to install. There are plenty of pros and cons of using wool as a source of insulation, but it’s hard to deny that it’s an excellent option for the environmentally-conscientious homeowner. Wool insulation can be installed using staples or cut to be friction fit, relying on the force of friction to remain in place. It is biodegradable, yet has the potential to be incredibly long lasting. It’s also highly effective, thanks to its natural structure that forms pockets. These pockets allow it to capture air, moisture, and other harmful particles, removing them from the air and maintaining temperate conditions.
Green Paint
The color green is irrevocably attached to the concept of going green. Going green in terms of building a home doesn’t have to mean literally mean having a green home though, unless you want it to. Green paint, as in environmentally friendly paint, is the expected standard now. Residential home building materials must meet IBC standards, including paint, which must have low VOC levels or none at all. These paints are safer for you and your household in addition to being more friendly to the environment. You can use such paints on surfaces both inside and outside of your home. There are even green-colored paint options if you really want to hammer it home.
Sustainable Lumber
When choosing a home builder, ask them to see if they use sustainable lumber. Sustainable lumber comes from forests that meet certain criteria. These forests are meant to be kept healthy, with clean water and a protected wildlife habitat. They are monitored so that there are trees being continuously planted to ensure that what is harvested is replaced. This makes sure that the forests are protected and preserved, protecting the source of lumber for years to come. When you consider the threats forests face, it becomes clear how important it is to preserve them and to support businesses who source their lumber from sustainable forests.
Bamboo
You could easily mistake bamboo for a tree and think that you’re using a sustainable form of lumber, but you wouldn’t be entirely correct. Bamboo is technically a grass, and an incredibly fast growing one at that. Because of its rapid growth and tenacious nature, bamboo is a highly sustainable material that can be used when building a home. In Asia, it isn’t uncommon to see houses built from bamboo. It can be found in the floors, walls, and roofs. It’s used to make furniture, scaffolding, bridges, and a variety of other things.
Recycled Glass
Going green doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your individuality. If you want something that is truly unique to your home, look into installing recycled glass countertops in your kitchen. The crushed pieces of glass are embedded in either acrylic or concrete. The positions of the glass pieces in conjunction with the colors ensure that your countertop will be a true one of a kind. Repurposing the glass makes this countertop option an environmentally friendly one. Make sure you take good care of it to keep it looking beautiful throughout its life.
Linoleum
Bamboo and reclaimed wood aren’t the only green flooring options. Despite being often thought of as an outdated flooring option, linoleum is a great material to use if you want to build a green home.True linoleum is made from entirely natural materials. It can be recycled to create new pieces of linoleum. With proper maintenance, it will last for decades. Relatively inexpensive and easy to install, linoleum can be a great, green flooring option that is readily available to virtually any homeowner who wants to use it.
Green materials can be great options to use when building a home. There are a variety to choose from, so it’s possible to have a greener home on a variety of budgets and for a variety of tastes. When choosing your materials, remember to think of both the sustainability of the material and the manner in which it is produced. That will help you choose the most environmentally friendly options that best fit your needs.
Using green cleaning products is a great way to be environmentally conscious in your own home. See what we’ve got to offer here!
Sources of Unhealthy Air in Your Home
When you hear about air pollution you think about the air outside. However, indoor air pollution is just as common and it’s important to be aware of the sources. Addressing these sources can include the air quality in your home and reduce any health issues.
Gas Stoves
Using gas stoves can lead to indoor air pollution. It’s possible they may release carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, or formaldehyde. The volume of these gases can increase during the winter due to less ventilation. Being exposed to these gases can irritate existing health conditions such as asthma. There is also an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and there are some connections to diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Changing to an electric stove can be an excellent alternative.
Your Fireplace
Whether you have a wood burning fireplace or a gas fireplace, there will be emissions being released into the air. However, it will be worse with wood burning fireplaces due to the smoke. The smoke releases very fine particles that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat as well as cause other serious risks. It may be helpful to replace your current fireplace with an electric fireplace. These fireplaces keep your home nice and warm without the risks. An electric fireplace doesn’t emit fire or smoke, so it’s a better option for those with asthma. These fireplaces also require less maintenance and are more efficient.
Central Air System
If you don’t regularly maintain your central air system, then you can begin to see issues with your air quality. For example, air filters need to be changed. Air filters do work to keep dust and dirt out of your home, but the buildup over time can make it harder for them to do this. The air coming through may begin to pick up pollutants and circulate through your house. A clean air filter can also prevent build up in your air ducts. Having a clean air system has many other benefits. Your air will smell better, you’ll have to dust less, your system will last longer, and energy will be used more efficiently in your home.
Keeping the air in your home clean is essential to your health and it is even more important with the increased time people are spending at home. Make sure you are aware of sources of unhealthy air so you can address them quickly. Do whatever is necessary to improve the air quality in your home.
Read this next: How to Keep Your Carbon Emissions Low in the WinterHow to Stop Dangerous Water Damage to Your Home
Water damage is the last thing anyone wants in their home. You can avoid dangerous water damage by keeping wet areas dry, sealing up cracks, and checking pipes and pumps. This will ensure that your home will stay safe and you won’t need to worry about any danger.
Keep Wet Areas Dry
There are many areas of your house that are prone to become a little damp. It’s important for you to keep wet areas of your home, like the bathroom and laundry room, dry by using dehumidifiers, fans, etc. Showers and cooking can even add water to your house, and you’ll need to make sure that you control the moisture in your home. You can control moisture and keep your home dry by raising the temperature of cold surfaces, turn off certain appliances if you notice moisture, and use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen.
Seal Up Cracks
Sealing up cracks is a great way for you to stop water damage to your home. Cracks in your house will allow water to enter and can cause problems with the foundation, ceilings, walls, and every other part of the house. If they are properly sealed, then you can avoid water damage. Poor basement sealing is one of the most common causes of flooding. Sealing cracks in your house will also help you to avoid any unwanted pests and can help keep your heat inside your house. Sealing the cracks will help you save money in the long run.
Check Pipes and Pumps
Pipes can freeze in the winter and your sump pump can malfunction. If you are checking your pipes and pumps, then you should be able to avoid a flood. Your sump pump plays a critical role in making sure your basement doesn’t flood after a lot of rainfall. To avoid a flood, you should make sure it’s properly maintained. Your pipes also play a critical role in your home. If they aren’t properly maintained then they could burst and cause a lot of issues for your home, including some dangerous water damage.
Water damage does happen on occasion, but there are things you can do to avoid it. you can keep wet areas of your home dry, you can seal up cracks, and you can check the pipes and pumps in your home. Doing these things will help you to feel safe within your home.
Read this next: How to Keep Your Carbon Emissions Low in the Winter
How to Get Rid of Bad Smells in Your Home
A stinky house is not a place where you want to spend a lot of time, and when you discover a bad smell in your home you may not know exactly what to do. Once you have found a bad smell in your home, it is important to take care of it quickly so you can begin to enjoy your home again for all the great things it has to offer.
Find the Source
The first thing to do when you find a bad smell in your home is to figure out where it is starting. Different rooms have different ways of getting smelly, so doing a thorough search of your home should help you figure out the source. Rooms where pets spend a lot of time tend to be more prone to bacteria and mold. Finding the source of the stench lets you focus your efforts on removing smells and mold and start making your home a place that is as appealing to smell as it is comfortable.
Start Cleaning
Once you have found the source of the smell, you can start cleaning to get rid of it. One of the best tools for neutralizing odors is baking soda. Once you’ve cleaned the affected area, add baking soda and give it time to set in. That should take care of a lot of the smell for you, and once it has had time to sit you can wipe or vacuum it off. Allow for lots of ventilation during and after your cleaning to help give the air a chance to clear and get the smell out more quickly.
Sometimes smells are able to sink deeply into materials. If it is still smelly after your first cleaning, try to go over it one more time. That can help minimize the smell and get your space back the way you want it.
Make it a Habit
The easiest way to get rid of odors is to have regular cleaning habits and avoid getting the odors in the first place. Start developing good cleaning habits so you can keep your house under control and avoid the stress of big messes. Work to clean messes as they occur so you can prevent odors before they even start. Having a running list of chores and assigning them to particular days of the week can help you stay on top of tasks and keep your home clean and fragrant.
Odors in your home can cause a lot of stress and discomfort. By taking care of odors quickly you can return your home to the happy place you want to spend your time in.
Tackle your home odors naturally with any of our safe household cleaning products!
How to Keep Your Carbon Emissions Low in the Winter
During the winter, carbon emissions may increase as more people are using heat in their homes. Whether it be from appliances or heating systems, your home can be one of the sources of this increase. Don’t worry! There are steps you can take to reduce your carbon emissions this winter.
Fix Energy Leaks
An energy leak is any area of your home where air is escaping in or out of your house. These leaks make it so your heating system has to work harder. Fixing the energy leaks in your house allows you to use energy more efficiently. You can save money and lower your impact on the environment. One way to address energy leaks is by improving the insulation in your home. Pay careful attention to insulating your attic space as this is an area where a lot of heat is lost. You should also make sure your windows and doors are well insulated. It may be helpful to have your house checked to see where air may be escaping.
Switch to Electric Appliances
Much of the carbon emissions from homes is due to appliances. They use a great deal of energy and can be wasteful. In order to reduce your carbon emissions, consider switching to more efficient electric appliances. For example, you can replace your fireplace with an electric fireplace. Electric fireplaces lead to healthier indoor air because there is no wood or gas to burn. They also reduce the amount of carbon released into the outdoor air. Similarly, you can switch to an electric stove rather than a gas stove. This will give you many of the same benefits as an electric fireplace.
Get an Efficient Water Heater
In the winter time, hot water is a necessity. However, you can switch to a different water heater that allows you to still get plenty of hot water in the winter while also being more energy conscious. We just recently purchased an instant water heater and we really love it. More than 2 people can take a shower in a night and you never run out of hot water. The best part, you aren't heating water when you aren't using it! There are many different types of water heaters. Each type has different benefits, but not all of them are perfect. For example, a solar water heater reduces the amount of electricity produced to heat your household’s water. However, they can be costly and are only useful in areas with a lot of sunlight. As you decide on a more efficient water heater, consider all the factors and determine which will work best for you.
Decreasing your carbon emissions is an important step. While some methods may be more costly or something to consider long-term, there are plenty of things you can do now. Start looking for ways you can decrease the carbon emissions from your home.
Read this next: 3 Easy Ways to Get Your Home Ready for the Winter
What Are EMFs and How Do They Impact Your Life?
• Prolonged exposure to certain types of EMFs can have negative implications for health, including hair loss, skin damage, burns and fertility loss.
• To reduce exposure to EMFs: keep internet routers at least 20 feet away; invest in devices that offer protection; limit Wi-Fi and mobile data usage.
• By taking steps to reduce exposure to EMFs, individuals can avoid related problems and live healthier lives.
3 Changes That Can Improve Your Mental Health at Home
• Adding potted plants with minimal care requirements is a great way to improve mental health.
• Invest in storage solutions to keep cherished items out of sight, and set small clutter-reducing goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Create comforting spaces incorporating soothing sights, sounds, feelings, colors and scents.
• Little changes made gradually can have considerable benefits on mental health.
Backyard Activities You Can Start Doing with Your Children
When you have kids, there is nothing quite like your backyard for creating fun memories and building a love of nature. There are lots of things you can do in your backyard to keep you and your kids occupied, but here are a few of the most fun and productive.
Raise Chicken
Raising chickens is a great way to spend time with your kids and teach them responsibility. If you get your chickens early, you will have the great opportunity to start with adorable chicks, watch their awkward teenage stage, and handle them often so they are friendly pets your kids will love.
In terms of farm animals, chickens are incredibly easy to care for and will help you stay on top of any bug or weed problems you may have in your backyard. Raising your own chickens can be a rewarding experience for you and your kids.
Gardening
Having a garden has never been easier, from opportunities to buy seeds online, to the ready availability of gardening information, now is an ideal time to enter the world of gardening. Buying your seeds online can be convenient and comes with many benefits. Gardening is great for reducing stress, has a low barrier of entry so kids can help, and you’ll end up with a beautiful harvest throughout the summer months. There is something incredibly fulfilling about watching your garden grow and being able to taste the final product. We highly recommend Treats for Chickens for your organic chicken treats and food needs!
Play Outdoor Games
Backyards are great spaces to run and play and inspire your children’s imaginations. Games like corn hole, bocce ball, and croquet are fun and help your kids build self-esteem and hand eye coordination. Another great outdoor activity is building a water wall. Use recyclable materials to create a path for water to follow, and then have fun splashing around with your new experiment. All of these games can be fun for kids and adults to play together and will give you all the opportunity to bond and really take advantage of your backyard.
Your backyard can be a fun and productive space, all you have to do is learn how to use it effectively. By creating a garden, raising your own chickens, and finding activities to do with your kids, you can make your backyard your favorite place to be.
Read this next: Creative Uses of Baking Soda Around Your House
What’s Disrupting My Sleep?
There are many factors that have a direct impact on your health and overall quality of life. Many people think of diet and exercise habits when talking about improving health. Perhaps less commonly considered, but no less important for it, is how you sleep at night. Sleep is very much intertwined with physical and mental health. Unfortunately for many people, quality sleep is rather elusive. Here's a closer look at some things that could be disrupting your sleep.
Depression and Anxiety
Mental disorders and poor sleep often go hand in hand, and depression and anxiety are no exception. Unfortunately, these problems have a tendency to be cyclical in nature. They can become so disruptive to sleep that depression and anxiety can cause insomnia. The reverse is also true. The lack of sleep brought on by insomnia can cause or worsen depression and anxiety, especially as the ability to function on a day to day basis becomes impeded. Those suffering from these disorders may find regular exercise, a healthy diet, and self care helpful in reducing anxiety and depression, which may have a positive impact on sleep. Try self care activities such as massage, meditation, or other relaxing activities.
Electromagnetic Fields
Electromagnetic fields are fields that are created by moving electrical charges. As it turns out, we're virtually surrounded by devices that emit EMFs. Microwaves, bluetooth devices, power lines, WiFi routers, computers, and phones all emit EMFs. EMF emitters can disrupt your sleep even when your body feels tired. Computers and phones are among the most common culprits. These devices emit a blue light that can interfere with your body's natural ability to secrete melatonin, which plays a key role in how you sleep. To counteract these effects, limit your exposure to blue light two to three hours before going to bed. Try wearing glasses that block blue light, adjusting display settings, or avoiding using the devices altogether.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that affects a little over one-third of adults. It causes people to stop breathing while they are sleeping, which, in addition to being incredibly dangerous, prevents deep, restorative sleep. If you suffer from sleep apnea, it's important to take action quickly. Many people use a CPAP machine while they sleep. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, may also be helpful in reducing sleep apnea.
If you have trouble sleeping, there are a variety of factors that could be responsible for it. Depression and anxiety, devices that emit electromagnetic fields, and sleep apnea can all contribute to difficulties sleeping. In a majority sense, these issues aren't ones that will resolve themselves on their own. Take action now to resolve them and get back to sleeping soundly at night.
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