There are many alternatives to utilize around the house that are more environmentally friendly.  Here are just a few ideas to decrease your chemical use.  Air fresheners contain many toxic chemicals including formaldehyde, benzene and phthalates.  Instead use essential oils in a diffuser.  You can use a scent that is pleasant to your own tastes.  Common examples are vanilla, orange, lavender and peppermint.  Another technique is to put cloves in a pan of wather and simmer it on a stove.

A common practice to help clean the drain is by using a cup of bleach which contains chlorine.  Instead of chlorine bleach use oxygen bleach or hydrogen peroxide based bleach.  To dissolve fatty, greasy clogs mix a half-cup of baking soda and one cup of distilled white vinegar in 6+ cups of boiling wather.  Pour this solution down the drain and cover with the drain plug for several minutes.  Remove the plug and flush with tap water and the blockage should clear.

When it comes to washing clothes, the U.S. Department of Energy reports that 90% of the energy used for washing clothes is for heating the water while only 10% is for the electricity driving the washer motor.  Studies have shown that washing clothes in cold water gets clothes as clean as washing in warm.  By minimizing hot water use the average houshold can save $60 and conserve more than 3,400 gallons of water yearly according to the Alliance to Save Energy.  Also use detergents that are all natural and phosphate free.

Not only are these ideas helpful to the environment, but they are also helpful in a healthy household.  For example, many of the chemicals in common air fresheners are known triggers for asthmatics.  Be aware of these hazards both to your family and to the environment.