I used to think a product had to smell like bleach to really work. If it didn’t burn my nose or sting my skin, was it even clean? Turns out, it absolutely was. The more I learned about conventional cleaning products... the hidden toxins, the hormone disruptors, the damage to waterways, the more I started looking for better options. Not just for me, but for my home and the planet. These days, my cleaning routine is simple, safe, and genuinely effective. And I want to share a few of my go-to tips with you. Because a clean home shouldn’t come at the cost of your health or the environment.

1. Rethink what “clean” smells like: So many conventional cleaners are loaded with synthetic fragrances that don’t actually clean anything. They just smell like they do. Instead, try shifting your mindset. Real clean doesn’t have to be lemony or piney. It can just smell like… nothing. Or fresh air. Or maybe a light, natural scent from essential oils. Products with simple, plant-based ingredients can still get the job done without coating your surfaces — and your lungs — in chemicals.
2. Choose multipurpose products: You really don’t need a separate cleaner for every room in the house. A good all-purpose spray can clean counters, sinks, mirrors, and even the inside of your fridge. At Wildfire, we stock a few customer favorites that are non-toxic, refillable, and beautifully packaged so they look good on your shelf and work like a charm. Less clutter. Less plastic. Less waste.
3. Swap paper towels for reusable cloths: This is one of the easiest and most satisfying changes I’ve made. Reusable Swedish dishcloths hold up beautifully and cut down on single-use waste. They’re perfect for wiping surfaces, cleaning up spills, and even polishing windows. Toss them in the laundry and use again and again. It’s better for your budget and so much better for the planet.
4. Use natural scrubs for tough jobs: Need to deep clean your tub, sink, or stovetop? You don’t need harsh chemicals. A simple mix of baking soda and water makes a great gentle scrub. Add vinegar if you need extra shine. For a more elevated version, we carry a scouring scrub that’s tough on grime but gentle on your skin and surfaces. No need to breathe in harsh fumes while you clean.
5. Be mindful of packaging: A lot of eco-friendly cleaning brands offer concentrates, refills, or plastic-free packaging. These little choices make a big difference when it comes to reducing waste. Look for glass spray bottles, compostable packaging, or brands that allow you to buy once and refill for life. It’s the kind of slow, intentional living that really starts to feel good.
6. Small swaps, big impact: If you’re just getting started, you don’t have to throw everything under your sink away. Use what you have, then replace things one by one with safer alternatives. Your home will still sparkle. It’ll just feel better knowing you’re not scrubbing with something toxic. At Wildfire, we’re here to help make that transition easier. We stock plastic-free cleaning products, natural scrubs, and reusable cloths that are beautiful, functional, and kind to the Earth.

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Your home should be a safe space, not a place filled with harsh chemicals and plastic waste. Start small. Choose one cleaner or one cloth to swap out. Notice how it feels. And keep going from there. Cleaning can be simple, effective, and sustainable. You’ve got this.

— Emily, Founder