The colonial-era homes lining Water Street and throughout Exeter's historic district have seen centuries of New England weather, and if those wide-plank pine floors could talk, they'd tell you about humidity that warps wood in July and heating systems that kick up dust all winter long. Add in the spring pollen from all those mature maples and oaks, plus the occasional nor'easter tracking salt and sand through your mudroom, and you've got a cleaning challenge that changes with every season. These older homes weren't built with the ventilation systems common in newer construction, which means whatever you're using to clean gets trapped inside your living space for hours.
That's exactly why more Exeter homeowners are switching to eco-friendly cleaning products and techniques that actually deliver results without filling their homes with harsh chemical fumes. The good news? You don't have to sacrifice cleaning power to go green, and you definitely don't need to spend a fortune on specialty products that promise the world but leave your counters streaky. Whether you're tackling the real challenges of maintaining historical features or just want to stop worrying about what your kids and pets are breathing in, there are proven natural solutions that work in real-world conditions. Let's look at what actually gets the job done.
Why Go Green in Exeter?
What goes down the drain in Exeter eventually reaches local rivers, Great Lakes tributaries, and the regional watershed. Many conventional cleaning products contain compounds toxic to aquatic life. Using biodegradable cleaners is both a personal health choice and a community responsibility.
The Essential Green Cleaning Kit
DIY Base Ingredients
- White distilled vinegar (5% acidity) — cuts grease, dissolves mineral deposits, mild disinfectant
- Baking soda — gentle abrasive, deodorizer, reacts with vinegar to lift stains
- Castile soap (Dr. Bronner's or equivalent) — plant-based surfactant for general cleaning
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%) — oxidizing disinfectant; kills mold and bacteria
- Essential oils (tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus) — antimicrobial, natural fragrance
- Microfiber cloths — capture 99% of bacteria with water alone; reusable for years
Ready-Made Certified Products
- Seventh Generation — EPA Safer Choice certified, widely available
- Method — plant-based formulas, good for general surfaces
- Branch Basics — concentrate that replaces multiple products; reduces plastic waste
- Ecover — European-standard biodegradable, recyclable packaging
DIY Green Cleaning Recipes
All-Purpose Spray
Mix 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, 15 drops tea tree oil, 15 drops lavender oil. Works on counters, sinks, and most hard surfaces. Do not use on natural stone (marble, granite) — vinegar is acidic.
Scrubbing Paste
Mix ½ cup baking soda with enough castile soap to form a paste. Add 10 drops lemon or tea tree oil. Use on tubs, sinks, and stovetops.
Glass Cleaner
Mix 2 cups water, ½ cup white vinegar, ¼ cup rubbing alcohol (70%). Apply to glass, wipe with a lint-free cloth.
Disinfecting Spray
Mix 1 cup hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup water and 10 drops tea tree oil. Use on high-touch surfaces. Allow to air dry (don't wipe) for full disinfecting action.
What to Avoid
- Bleach + ammonia — creates toxic chloramine gas
- Bleach + vinegar — creates chlorine gas
- Synthetic air fresheners — contain phthalates and VOCs; open a window instead
- Products with "fragrance" listed as ingredient — can contain 100+ undisclosed chemicals
When You Need a Professional
TotalCare Cleaning uses green-certified products in all our Exeter homes. If you prefer eco-friendly products for your recurring service, request it when booking — no upcharge.
Schedule eco-friendly cleaning in Exeter: (888) 378-7451