10 Easy Eco-Friendly Swaps for a Healthier Home

More and more Melbourne households are looking for practical ways to live sustainably, without compromising on comfort or cleanliness. Whether your goal is to reduce household waste, protect your family’s health, or simply clean your home without harsh chemicals, there are some easy, eco-friendly swaps that can help.

At The Happy Planet Cleaning Co., we specialise in eco-friendly residential cleaning in Melbourne. While we’re always here to help, there are lots of small and impactful changes you can make yourself. 

 

1. Ditch Paper Towels & Use Reusable Microfibre Cloths

Paper towels are single-use and contribute significantly to household waste. Reusable microfibre cloths are a great alternative because they’re more absorbent, last longer, and drastically cut down on unnecessary waste.

2. Swap Plastic Spray Bottles for Glass

Glass spray bottles are ideal for DIY solutions of your favourite eco-friendly cleaners. They’re refillable, reduce plastic use, and even help extend the shelf life of many natural products.

3. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Instead of Bleach or Ammonia

Thankfully, we now have access to a wide range of effective, plant-based cleaning products that are safe for both your family and the environment. Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can do long-term damage to your health and contribute to indoor air pollution.

4. Switch to Compostable Sponges

Conventional sponges often shed microplastics. Compostable alternatives made from cellulose or coconut fibre are just as effective, and they break down naturally when you're done.

5. Swap Plastic Bin Bags for Compostable Liners

One of the easiest swaps to make in any Melbourne home. Compostable bin liners reduce your reliance on single-use plastics and are a simple, affordable step toward a greener household.

6. Replace Synthetic Air Fresheners with Essential Oils

Many supermarket air fresheners contain synthetic fragrances and harmful chemicals that linger in the air. Try using a diffuser with lemon, eucalyptus or lavender essential oils . This is a favourite in many of the homes we clean across Melbourne.

7. Trade Plastic Brushes for Coconut Fibre or Wooden Options

Plastic brushes tend to wear out quickly and shed microplastics. Biodegradable brushes made from coconut fibres or sustainably sourced wood are more durable, eco-friendly, and, let’s be honest, far more stylish in your kitchen or bathroom.

8. Buy in Bulk at Local Refill Stores

Whether it's laundry powder, dish soap or all-purpose cleaner, buying in bulk cuts down significantly on packaging waste. Plus, you’ll be supporting your local health and bulk food stores (many of which are popping up all over Melbourne). 

9. Switch to Eco Laundry Sheets

Eco laundry sheets are lightweight, plastic-free, and space-saving. We love recommending them to clients looking for a more sustainable way to clean clothes, especially those with limited laundry storage.

10. Start Small - It All Adds Up

Creating a more eco-friendly home doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Even one or two small swaps can make a lasting difference. Whether you’re aiming to reduce waste, protect your family’s health, or simply feel better about the products in your home, these changes are a great place to start.

At Happy Planet Cleaning Co, we use many of these practices every day in our eco-friendly residential cleaning services across Melbourne. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.