laundering the laundry room -
this is where i keep not only my laundry detergent, but also my cleaning supplies. so i'm going to operate on the assumption that you do the same thing - let's talk about those products.
once again, what we use to clean our houses with is important - if there is gluten in these products, you're essentially spreading gluten around your house as you clean. the easiest solution for this problem is to just replace the gluten containing products or tools with safe products, and in the era of being green, being sustainable, being thrifty, and pinterest... we have so many options!!
- laundry soap - i choose to use a smart klean laundry ball, which i've really enjoyed. i like the overall health benefits of this product, as well as only having to buy it once a year. super economical, and i don't even have to think about the big g. that being said, there are also some great products out there that are gluten free so as long as you're doing your homework and being mindful, power to ya. i very much enjoy this article on laundry soap, but keep in mind that it is from 2010 so once you find your favorite laundry soap on the list, give the company a call and make sure that it is still gluten free. when all else fails, seventh generation is a safe bet.
- dryer sheets - i use nellie's dryer balls, and i keep it pretty basic. that being said, it is possible to find gf dryer sheets. for example: this company will stand behind theirs as being gf.
- bathroom, all purpose, and disinfectant cleaners - a very simple solution is this: vinegar and water, or peroxide and water, add in essential oils for fragrance.... economical, healthy, and gluten free. bingo. but sometimes you just want to go out and buy a product that you can come home and use, something mainstream. here is a fantastic article on gluten free household cleaners.
- cleaning your floors - ingredients are important, of course, as is what you use to do the cleaning. if you have an old mop that you've used different cleaners with, i recommend either cleaning it thoroughly, if possible, or replacing it. if the piece that comes in contact with the cleaner is able to go through the wash or the dishwasher, and you can give it a serious clean, go for it. if not, it's probably time for a new mop. this was not a priority for me, so i went oldschool for 3 years and used a rag and some elbow grease to clean my floors. 3500 square feet later, i just bought myself a new mop - at wal-mart for $18. the reason i think it's so so great is because it comes with an empty bottle, as opposed to a bottle of cleaner that i'll have to try to clean out and de-glutenize. i just use dish soap and water, or vinegar and water and essential oils.
