Simple ways to go green

Tip: Watch what you spray

Many household cleaners are full of toxic and unhealthy ingredients. Look for non-aerosol spray polishes that avoid toxic materials altogether.

Tip: Back to natural

Return to tap and filtered water instead of landfill-clogging bottled water. Buy organice fruits and vegetables to avoid ingesting pesticides.

Tip: Hang your dirty laundry

Whenever possible, line dry your clothing; you’ll conserve energy and do less damage to your clothing.

Tip: Change your diaper supply

Nobody knows for sure how long it takes diapers to biodegrade. Consider going with cloth or look for chlorine-free alternatives and diapers made from recycled content.

Tip: Detox your floors

Whenever you or another family member enters your home, take off your shoes. A lot of dirt, grime and bacteria can enter the home on your feet.

Tip: Really turn off your electronics

Televisions, cell phone chargers, and computers keep sucking energy even though you turned the off. Put them on a power strip and easily cut energy at the source.

Source: “Squeaky green: The Method guide to detoxing your home” by Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry (Chronicle Books, 2008, $16.95)