Green DIY Grout Cleaner

It’s easy to make a variety of cleaning solutions to use around the house and most take no time at all the put together. These options are usually cheaper, safer and create less waste than commercial cleaners. What’s not to love? This post marks the beginning of a series dedicated to Green Cleaning Solutions and how well they work. I’ve written a fair amount about grout- who knew... 

Blue Jean Insulation

Want to make your blue jeans green? Use them to insulate your home. I came across some interesting information online and thought I’d share / get some reader feedback. Insulating with Blue Jeans Bonded Logic has developed a process to take old, worn out jeans and recycle them to create insulation. Their UltraTouch insulation has 85% post-industrial recycled natural fibers. They treat the cotton... 

Free Ways to Stop Junk-Mail and Phone Books

I hate getting junk-mail. Sometimes I’ll grab the mail only to realize that every single piece is addressed to the “Current Resident”. And, it all goes straight to the recycle bag. Sure it’s good to recycle the junk-mail, but it would be even better (greener) if the junk-mail was never sent. Opt out of Junk Mail There are a couple of different services to help eliminate junk-mail.... 

Upgrade your Appliances to Save Money

I read an interesting article from Consumer Reports this month (Oct.). The article was detailing energy savings from upgrading old appliances. Consumer Reports examined 10 possible upgrades. I’m just going to highlight my favorites. If your interested in updating some of your appliances, make sure you use a coupon. 15% Cash back on Sears appliances Upgrade your Thermostat Do you still have... 

Is Bamboo Flooring Really Good for the Planet?

Bamboo flooring manufacturers want nothing more than to have their product identified as the most earth-friendly option for your floors. But with big environmental impacts like the real cost of shipping this product overseas, those benefits might be overshadowed. Karen Aho over at MSN Real Estate writes a thought-provoking article examining whether Bamboo flooring really is a green alternative. Photo... 

Rocket Stove: Efficient Cooking

Ever heard of a Rocket Stove? I recently read a few good articles boasting the benefits of these efficient cookers. Here’s what you need to know. About Rocket Stoves A Rocket Stove is an economic variation of a wood burning stove with several distinct advantages. They have a unique construction that makes them more efficient than cooking on an open fire and they create less pollution. Rocket... 

Energy Star Window Air Conditioners

Our Home Owners Association (HOA) bans window air conditioners. They’re unsightly, the rule claims, and besides, everyone in the community has central air conditioning systems. Apparently our neighbors don’t want to see a bunch of window units as they’re driving past our houses each day. I can see the point… But window air conditioners may just be the wave of the future. Energy... 

Green Tips to use at Home

There is plenty of information out there about ways to lead a “greener” lifestyle. It’s a trend that I hope continues. I still get excited when I see people and companies taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. 5 Great Green Tips for Around the House Vinegar. In my home we use vinegar as a cleaning solution. The acidity kills most mold, bacteria and germs. It’s also great... 

Reusable Shopping Bags

These days being “green” is in style. So why not be in style? Approximately 100 billion plastic bags each year are thrown away and sent to the land fill. Plastic bags take up to 1000 years to decompose, and when they do, they break down into toxins that poison the soil and water. So an easy, environmentally safe solution is to bring your own reusable shopping bags with you! They are...