Alternative Cleaning Products that Won’t Harm our Oceans

The next time you reach for your common household cleaner – consider the health of our oceans. Many household cleaners are harmful to marine life, water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Certain chemicals found in cleaning products such as triclosan, phosphates and phthalates can pollute our waterways leading to algal blooms and can even be detrimental to marine life. You most likely have natural ingredients hiding in your pantry that can work as alternative cleaning products. With people limiting their trips out and about, it’s a new age of DIY at home, and why not find ways to help protect our marine environments too. The next time you run out of your favorite household cleaner, consider these non-toxic replacement options which will not only help the planet, but will save you a trip to the store.

Here are a few of our favorites for the boat and home:

Scented All-Purpose Cleaner

• White vinegar
• Water
• Lemon rind
• Rosemary

Combine one part vinegar and one part water with a little lemon rind and rosemary, pour into a spray bottle and label the components. Let the mixture sit for a week so that the ingredients have a chance to infuse together. When the cleaner is ready, you can use it to remove water stains, smudges and clean surfaces.

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