Green Housekeeping Paperback – January 8, 2008

Although it initially seemed somewhat strange to me that I would choose to take the time to review a book on housekeeping, the more I thought thought about it - and more importantly the more I actually used and benefited from its contents - the more it seemed to make perfect sense.I'll just cut to the chase and say that this is a wonderful book and here's why:The advice given here is practical and extremely helpful and provides a systematic, structured, very logical approach to keeping a living environment safe, clean, and healthy. Its also comprehensive in the sense that it covers all the major areas of the home thoroughly and organizes the process of keeping a clean and healthy home into a connected whole. And if that weren't enough, the information itself is presented well. Ms. Sandbeck is very well-spoken and obviously invested an enormous amount of energy into not only acquiring the information contained in the book but also in presenting that information in a form that lends to understanding and use.There are so many tips and helpful pieces of advice, background information that really facilitates understanding of what it means to be "healthy" in the context of housekeeping, and well-thought no-nonsense instructions for the nuts and bolts of everyday household duties, its almost impossible to really specify any in particular in the limited format of a review without insulting the rest of the book.Sandbeck uses very simple and sound scientific principles concerning ecosystems and how they can and should positively interrelate as a primary basis for her overall approach, which in my opinion really puts hers in the upper crust of other related books. Further, she backs up what she says with solid science, research, and many other references if one chooses to delve deeper into any given topic.For the pragmatists out there, this book will definitely save you time and money...a LOT of time and money. But just as importantly, "Green Housekeeping" wades into much deeper water than simply recycling and the like, and in reality entails empowering a person to exercise responsible home ownership and consumerism, as well as to create an environment that provides comfort, safety, health, peace of mind, and that functions as a positive part of a much bigger picture, which turns out to be much better for you as well as the world around you. All considered, I can't imagine a better book on the subject.

Absolutely essential guide to twenty-first century homekeeping. The advice is given with humor, good sense and thoroughness. I've been managing a household for many, many years and I learned many helpful things I hadn't heard of anywhere else.For one thing: she recommends "rainwashing" for some clothing and household items. I tried it, and it's wonderful! Following her suggestions, I put a cashmere sweater out on my clothesline on a rainy day. It was a light rain, not a monsoon! I'd bought that sweater at a Salvation Army store for seven dollars, so I decided it would be a reasonable candidate for this experiment.It worked! The sweater got wet, not soaked, but it dried in the windy weather that followed the rain. (You do have to be aware of weather reports to succeed with rainwashing.) It was soft and fresh-smelling when I took it in. I did run a low-heat iron over it, lightly, to smooth it out and was so happy with the results. I'd use this method again on other selected garments, regardless of cost, that might be beaten up if washed in a washing machine --- even on the gentle cycle. And the price is certainly right!There are many other suggestions in the book, low-cost, low-hazard and a pleasure to use. I'd highly recommend this guide to everyone who manages a household of any size. You'll learn and benefit!

What a great book! I'm not terribly moved by the "green" title, but I hate buying and using commercial cleaners. I've always been skeptical that they work. This book delivers great bite-sized things that you can do to either (1) save time, (2) prevent problems in the first place, (3) switch over to green/easier/cheaper/more effective methods, and (4) continue to use those methods over time.I thought the sections on cleaning windows and using wood cutting boards for meat were worth the price of the book. I didn't agree with her ultimate view on kitchen sponges, but she gave enough background info that I now have a plan that I can work with that's better than what I do now. (Boiling them every so often.)Honestly, it's just a relief to have someone tell me what cleaner to use and NOT have it be some commercial perfumed spritz thing that either doesn't work or might eat the finish off the surface. She even provides storage advice when it matters.Great reference book, and chatty enough to read a chapter or three at one go.

I am impressed with the wealth of information available in this book. We have a problem with clutter and I have already begun using her ideas! Throwing things out, making a rolodex of where items are and labeling cabinets so items go where they belong. I also tried borax for cleaning my marble bathroom sink and it did a better job then anything else I've ever tried.I like how the book is written and if an item relates to something else in the book, it tells you what page to find the related item on so you don't have to search for it. This one book covers what 3-4 of my others books combined cover! I think the book was worth every penny.Organic Housekeeping: In Which the Non-Toxic Avenger Shows You How to Improve Your Health and That of Your Family, While You Save Time, Money, and, Perhaps, Your Sanity

Great reference book, go back to it when never need a solution that's natural around the house

This is a wonderful book, it is big and so full of information but the information is laid out in such a way the I was able to read this within a week, I only read what pertained to me. This will always have a place on my bookshelf as it is a perfect quick reference for any and all housekeeping questions. This book has changed the way I care for my family and home, we are now almost chemical free and I have become greatly aquainted with vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. Thank you I highly reccommend this book.

This book changed my life! Highly recommend!

I'm just in the middle of reading this book now....and it has some very interesting suggestions which I will certainly put into practise.