Conscious Cleaning with White’s IGA
One small change can result in a trifecta of wins. John Caruso discovers how the environment, local business and your family can all benefit.
Am I the only one who gets ‘a kick’ out of wiping, vacuuming, mopping, and scrubbing? Riding that sense of achievement through the day, drifting off to sleep when my head hits the pillow in post-clean bliss, knowing the home, at least for another week, is spotless. Spring has sprung and for many that means a spring clean. I know, you’re thinking this must equate to something akin to Mardi Gras for me. Right? You’re on the money and in the ballpark. Mardi Gras was, in fact, a celebration of spring and fertility by the ancient Romans.
There’s a family of four under our roof which includes a kid called Max, and a cat named Timmy so when it’s time to clean, making sure there are no harmful chemicals or residue is paramount. A lot of products contain chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bleach, and ammonia and these chemicals can leave residues that linger on surfaces and in the air, potentially causing respiratory issues, skin irritation, and allergic reactions in kids. Pets are also at risk. They can suffer from vomiting, hypersalivation, and even severe burns if they encounter or ingest these residues.
Luckily there’s a whole bunch of savvy operators who are producing ecofriendly cleaning products and because of White’s IGA’s focus and philosophy on all things local these ecofriendly consumables are at our fingertips. The White’s IGA Locavore Program was designed to support and promote local producers on the Sunshine Coast, connecting customers with locally sourced, artisan, and innovative products. The program highlights where food and goods come from, fostering a sense of community and ensuring that money stays within the local economy.
That’s Awesome is a 100% Australian-owned and manufactured company that’s been leading the way in chemical-free cleaning solutions that require no rinsing or water once applied to stains or dirt. Their range of products meets all your needs without relying on harsh chemicals and the results are impressive, offering superior cleaning without the toxicity. That’s Awesome Lemon Myrtle Sanitiser, for instance, uses the purest natural form of citral, providing powerful antibacterial and antifungal action without harming beneficial bacteria. Enzymes in their products ensure continued protection and are much safer for both the environment and human health. With a near-neutral pH, these products are gentle on surfaces, making them perfect for everyday use.
Ecokaps innovative biodegradable, plant-based cleaning and hand soap products are effective and ecofriendly available in concentrated tablets that you dissolve in water. When you run out, just keep your container, add a refill tablet, and fill with water again. This process not only reduces waste and space but also eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles. Their ecofriendly laundry sheets are another game-changer – just add a sheet to your washing load, and you’re set. No more measuring, no more waste, just clean clothes without the harmful chemicals. All packaging and containers are recyclable and reusable, embodying their motto: “Common Sense for the Common Good”.
And at The Australian Eucalyptus Oil Company, they handcraft each product using the finest ingredients and 100% pure essential oils, guaranteeing zero toxic chemicals or synthetic fragrances. Their authentic scents, including eucalyptus, lavender, lemon myrtle, and peppermint, bring a joy, if you’re like me, to your cleaning routine while keeping your home fresh and clean. Eucalyptus oil, derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, has been used for centuries for its remarkable cleansing properties. It’s gentle yet effective, making it perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, floors, and windows. My wife loves the All Natural Low Vapour Shower Cleaner to keep the shower screens sparkling! The scent of eucalyptus and lemon myrtle is lingering in the air as I reflect on the satisfaction and gratification that giving the place a good ‘scrub’ gives me. I’m not only creating a safe and healthy space for my family but I’m also supporting local and doing my bit for the environment.
