Seven Ingredients, Zero Toxins: The Simple Way to Clean Green

Discover how to detox your home with safe, effective cleaners you already have in your kitchen.

Author

Kathleen Barnes
November 21, 2025

February 9, 2024

A Message from Kathleen:

Dear Friends,

This week’s main topic is green cleaning and I have a confession to make that goes far beyond cleaning out the cobwebs: I’ve become addicted to Marie Kondo and her home organization tools.

Before you groan and roll your eyes, give this tiny Japanese sprite a chance. Her methods are time consuming at the beginning, but easy to maintain over the long term.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve organized and re-organized and re-reorganized my closets, drawers, kitchen, garage and more.

I began Marie’s re-organization process a couple of months ago and the places I’ve completed have stayed organized!

I have said many times that we are energetically tied to our “stuff,” and the more stuff we have the more stressed and exhausted we are. I don’t know about you, but I don’t need any more stress or exhaustion.

And no, Marie does not say you should only have 30 books. That’s an urban legend. If she did, I would have swept her out with the cobwebs. Instead, she asks us to look at our “stuff” and decide if we love it or not. If we don’t love it, say, “Thanks” and pass out on to someone who will. (BTW: You can find Marie Kondo on YouTube and Netflix)

I’m probably about halfway through the process (I do have a life, Marie!) and attempting to enroll my hoarder spouse in the process. I’ll let you know how that goes when those 15-year old Rotary Club magazines and 50-year old T-shirts (not exaggerating!) go out the door.

Be well,

Kathleen

Main Article

What is it about this time of year when I want to clean out clutter, sweep away old papers and cobwebs? Find out how to get green and clean.

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