Clean out your bathroom

It's the start of a new year...and a great time to consider a bathroom overhaul.

Old ratty towels? Turn 'em into rags and get yourself some quick dry alternatives (for those of us in wet climates, they are fabulous because they don't mildew as quickly hanging on a hook for re-use, and they take less space in the laundry and dry more quickly). This doesn't have to be an expensive trade out. This is a common time for white sales and lots of places carry quick-dry options now. I got mine at J.C. Penney.

Shower curtain? If you don't already have one, buy a water-repellent, fabric liner that can be washed instead of thrown-out. I usually have to wash mine once a month because we have such a air-tight house that doesn't let go of moisture easily. The bottom ends up collecting pink mold...ewwww!

Old prescriptions? Take them to your friendly pharmacist to dispose of. This is better than flushing them into the water supply or leaving them around for young'uns to get into.

Check the expiration dates on vitamins and over-the-counter medicines. Consider natural alternatives for replacement.

Clean out your make-up drawer. This should be done every six months, especially for eye make-ups. This is an excellent time to consider your replacement options. Think about the companies who are producing what you put on your face, under your arms, on your skin, in your hair. Are they responsible or reprehensible? Taking stock of your health philosophy should always include your health and beauty products. Try out EWG's Skin Deep database for suggestions and information. (It's in my list of online links). This doesn't have to break your bank, either. More and more, "green" cosmetics are making their way onto drugstore shelves. Just make sure the ingredient really are "natural". Lots of companies "greenwash" their products and market them as organic or natural when they really aren't (read the label). Go for PABA free, paraben free, synthetics free stuff. Most products actually label their things as such, so it isn't hard to find them.

If you live in the Northwest, like me. Check all the nooks and crannies of your bathroom for mold (esp. of the black variety). It seems to love our window sills. It's nasty stuff and will need to be killed with a strong but environmentally safe cleaner.

Check out this link for some ideas: CarbonFootprintDefined.com