E.P.I.C. Sustainability

FIVE TIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE

CLEANING

Spring is in full force, and with it, spring cleaning. We’re throwing the windows open, dusting off dressers, and revisiting seemingly endless piles of “stuff” stowed away for winter. Sometimes this can feel insurmountable, too. While it may seem easier to throw everything away or ignore it until next season, there are a few simple ways you can tackle your spring cleanout in an eco-friendly way. Here are five tips to consider for cleaning - and living - more sustainably: 1. Don’t wing it. If you’ve ever gone grocery shopping without a list, you know the trip can quickly turn into a disaster. When spring cleaning, make sure you plan ahead to avoid stress and frustration. It can be emotionally draining to decide which items to keep and which to throw out, so develop a system and keep your end goal in mind. As you’re sorting, create piles of items to donate, keep, and what must be thrown out. 2. Think outside the box. Most of us have closets and dressers full of clothes we know we can donate when we’re ready, yet did you know most donation centers are also interested in dressers and other furniture? Some places even take leftover construction and renovation materials like tile, brick, faucets, and more. Instead of keeping items because “you never know when you could use it,” consider how these unique items could have a second life and be put to good use elsewhere. 3. Know what can’t be donated or recycled. Chemicals can’t be recycled or donated, and some electronic components are detrimental to the environment if left in the landfill. Educate yourself on the proper disposal of these materials and identify local centers or organizations that accept By Kathy Moore

them. Many cities often sponsor e-waste recycling days, for instance. 4. Think before you buy. As you’re sorting you may think, “how did we get all this stuff?” Remind yourself of that before you buy something new. Ask the following questions: Do I have something like it? How long will I use it? Can I get it used through Facebook Marketplace, or a secondhand store? This thought process could not only reduce your carbon footprint; it could save you time and money in the long run! 5. Consider the additional benefits. Beyond regaining space, decluttering and living more sustainably can boost your pocketbook and your health. Selling gently used items or getting a tax write-off for donations can put some extra cash in your pocket, and you’ll feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally by not having to navigate towering piles of stuff. A study from Offers.com noted 35% of all respondents were motivated to declutter in order to boost their mood. Starting this process can be difficult but stick with it and it’ll get easier to live (and shop) more sustainably. It's a learning process, so start small and remember you don’t have to go through it alone - friends, family, and professionals are available to help. Ultimately, by following these five tips, your household will be clean, tidy, and running more efficiently, and you’ll help others and the planet in the process - what could be better than that?

Kathy Moore is the co-owner of JDog Junk Removal & Hauling, an eco-friendly junk removal franchise that recycles and reuses 60- 80% of everything collected. Kathy and her husband, Jon, have won numerous awards including the 2018 Carlsbad Chamber Sustainability Award and the 2019 JDog of the Year Award for service to the community. Jdogvista.com