I find the process of purging to be cathartic. Intentionally ridding my life of unnecessary things helps me to strike some balance and enables me to refocus my attention on the things that matter most. I feel accomplished and more at ease when I pare down. It also blesses my family, since I can better manage the must-dos of the day. Here are the two areas I’m currently working on and some insight I’ve gleaned in the process.  

Chemical Cleaning Products
For the longest time, I’ve cleaned with traditional chemical cleaning products and have hardly thought twice about it. But over the past several years, my husband and I have become increasingly aware of the dangers of chemicals, pesticides and herbicides lurking in nearly everything, from our food to various household products. With a two-year-old underfoot and a second baby on the way, I’m making the effort to purge chemical cleaners from our home. Switching to natural alternatives has simplified my cleaning, saved money and spared me the guilt that used to come with pouring my bleach-spiked mop water down the drain.

To purge chemical cleaners from your home, here are some natural-cleaning recipes that have become my staples. A few are compliments of Passionate Homemaking; Earth Easy also has an exhaustive list of recipes.

All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1/2 cup vinegar with 1/2 gallon water. Vinegar is a natural antimicrobial, so it works as a disinfectant. I sometimes add a few drops of tea tree oil to scent the water and further enhance the antimicrobial properties. Use on kitchen counters, floors, showers, tubs, mirrors and windows.

Tub and Showers: For tougher tub/shower jobs, sprinkle with baking soda, then spray with the all-purpose cleaner. Baking soda acts as a scouring agent to remove soap scum.

Carpet Stains: Spray hydrogen peroxide onto the stain and let set for a few minutes (screw a spray nozzle directly onto the bottle), then pat dry. Because hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent, be sure to test for colorfastness first. For tougher stains, mix equal parts salt, Borax and vinegar. Rub in and leave for a few hours or until dry, then vacuum.

Unnecessary Expenses
In an effort to become completely debt-free, including our mortgage, my husband and I have been cutting out extraneous spending, devising (and sticking to) a monthly budget, and setting realistic, long-term financial goals. Though I initially balked at the thought of debt-free living (selfishly I didn’t want to give up the freedom of at-whim spending), I have since become its proponent. Knowing that my husband and I are working towards a common goal that will result in financial freedom and long-term wealth is exhilarating. Yes, it is a sacrifice, but it’s worth it in view of the goal. It’s also given me a sense of control; knowing that I’m operating within pre-determined boundaries prevents me from the worry that sometimes accompanied my previous spending habits. As we purge unnecessary expenses from our lives, here are some insights that have helped me embrace this new discipline.

Dave Ramsey: We’re following Dave Ramsey’s method for debt-free living. Though I know there are others out there, his formula is the one we’ve chosen.

Monthly Budgeting: It’s impossible to expect your spending to trend exactly the same each month. Some expenses are monthly, some three times a year, and so on. As a result, it’s imperative to set budgets that will realistically address each month’s real needs.

Make a Game of It: This has helped in my grocery shopping. If I view the budget as a game rather than a burden, I then feel challenged to win every week.

Give Yourself Some Grace: Sticking to your budget is key, but you also must extend yourself some grace. If from time to time, you end up over-budget, don’t let guilt usher in feelings of defeat. Acknowledge where you went astray, recommit yourself to the game, and then move on toward debt-free living. And know that you’re in this for the long haul … it’s a marathon, not a sprint, which means you’re likely to stumble. When you do, just get up, brush yourself off and get back into the race.  What gives you balance in your life?

photos Shalene Roberts, istockphoto.com