Swiffers are marketed as a convenience, but in my view, this is a false promise. In order to use a Swiffer as designed, we are compelled to purchase a constant stream of chemical and VOC laden, low capacity “cleaning” pads,** and add them to the landfill.

I have given the Swiffer to the kids to play with, but have incorporated the general idea into my new mopping stratagem: I now use a Mr. Clean solution in a spray bottle (loosens dirt; low VOC), a “self-wringing” mop (and a bucket of hot water, for rinsing the mop). Outcome: much cleaner floors with no waste created.

** translated: loosening dirt and spreading it around, with a paltry 100 square foot (10′ x 10′) cleaning capacity

In a spray bottle with an adjustable sprayer, mix 2 ½ teaspoons liquid soap** per quart water, to make a 1% soap solution. Now, you’re cleaning while you kill flies. Add some Lavender essential oil to add aromatherapy to your Fly Goo brew!

Stops flies in their tracks. Long distance shots work best with a stream, close shots work best with a softer spray. Kids love to help with fly hunting.

**We use eco-friendly dish soap or Murphy’s Oil Soap

Go easy on the planet and your wallet: buy some spray bottles and make your own cleaning sprays at home. Recommended solution strengths are on the massive jars, available at warehouse store X. Use fewer products for more things. We use a white vinegar solution for windows; eco-friendly dish soap solution in the kitchen (counters), Murphy’s Oil Soap (cabinets & walls) and Mr. Clean or Spic & Span for the floors.

Remember to mark your bottles, we know from experience that all diluted cleaners look alike (but smell is a good clue)!