Sustainable living: eco-friendly maintenance for your land lease home

Spring has sprung in Australia making it the perfect time to think about sprucing up your land lease home. But instead of reaching for those harsh chemicals, why not try some eco-friendly alternatives?

Eco-friendly options are not only better for the planet but they can also save you money in the long run. Let’s dig into some sustainable living tips that will make your home sparkle while keeping things green.

Embrace DIY cleaning solutions

Hands up if you remember mum or dad cleaning with household products like vinegar and baking soda.

Switching to homemade cleaning products is one of the easiest ways to keep your home clean while being kind to the environment. Many commercial cleaners contain toxic chemicals that can harm both your health and the planet.

Here’s a few simple recipes you can try:

All-purpose cleaner

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oil – like lemon or tea tree – for a lovely scent. This solution is perfect for countertops, sinks and more.

Window Cleaner

Combine 2 cups of water, ¼ cup of vinegar and ½ teaspoon of liquid soap. Use it to make your windows sparkle without streaks.

Air Freshener

Forget about synthetic sprays. Simmer a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, orange peels or a few drops of your favourite essential oils to naturally freshen the air.

Use reusable cleaning tools

Say goodbye to costly disposable cleaning wipes and paper towels.

Instead, switch to reusable options like microfibre cloths or old cotton t-shirts. Not only do they clean like a dream but they also reduce waste and can be washed and reused for years.

Likewise, think about using a reusable mop with washable pads. These pads can be thrown into the washing machine and reused countless times, cutting down on landfill waste.

Spring cleaning checklist: room-by-room eco-tips

If just thinking about doing a big spring clean fills you with anxiety, try organising your cleaning by tackling one room at a time. Here’s an easy-to-follow checklist to keep things green:

Kitchen

• Use baking soda to scrub tough stains on countertops and sinks.
• Use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean the fridge interior. And do not throw away leftovers – compost them!

Bathroom

• Swap chemical-based toilet cleaners for a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.
• Use a natural pumice stone to remove stubborn mineral deposits from tiles.

Living area

• Dust with a damp microfibre cloth rather than using aerosol sprays.
• Refresh carpets and rugs with a sprinkle of baking soda. Let it sit for 15 minutes then vacuum.

Bedrooms

• Wash bedding with eco-friendly laundry detergents.
• Air mattresses and cushions outside to freshen them up naturally.

Choose green products wisely

When shopping for cleaning supplies, look for products labelled ‘biodegradable’, ‘non-toxic’ or ’plant-based’. These items often break down more quickly and safely than conventional cleaners. Also think about supporting local Australian brands that focus on sustainability.

You might also want to explore bulk buying options. Buying in larger quantities reduces packaging waste and often saves money in the long term.

Conserve water and energy

Some land lease homes, particularly older ones, can be less efficient in terms of water and energy use. Here’s some quick tips to make your home more sustainable:

Fix leaks promptly

A leaky tap can waste hundreds of litres of water over time. Check your plumbing regularly and fix any leaks as soon as possible.

Switch to LED bulbs

LED light bulbs use up to 85 percent less energy than traditional bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer.

Use a clothesline

Whenever possible, dry your clothes outside on a sunny day. This saves energy and gives your clothes a fresh, natural scent.

Start a small home garden

Consider planting a small herb or vegetable garden in your backyard or front yard or using raised garden beds or pots if space is limited. Growing your own produce is a great way to ensure fresh, organic ingredients while reducing packaging waste from store-bought items. Plus, it's a rewarding hobby that gets you outdoors.

Why not chat with your neighbours and start a community garden? It’s a great way to make friends, learn something new and keep your grocery bill down, down, down.

Recycle and compost smartly

Make sure you’re making the most of your recycling options. Separate recyclables from general waste and check with your local council about what can and cannot be recycled in your area.

Start a compost bin for food scraps and other green waste. Composting not only reduces landfill waste but also creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Think before you buy

Before purchasing new items for your home, consider whether they’re truly necessary. Can you repurpose something you already own? If you do need to buy, choose second-hand or sustainably made products.

Make the shift to green living today

Sustainable living does not have to be complicated or expensive. By making small changes in your daily routine, you can reduce your impact on the environment and potentially save money in the process.

This Spring – before it becomes unbearably hot and humid – why not try a few of these eco-friendly tips for your land lease home? Not only will you help protect the planet but you'll also create a healthier, happier space for yourself.

By choosing eco-friendly maintenance practices, you’re not just caring for your home – you’re helping to create a better future for everyone. Let’s make this Spring a season of positive change!