Uncategorized
The Purpose and Benefits of Deep House Cleaning in Austin, TX
Dust in every nook and cranny and grimy surface may sound horrific to you, but did you know they’re actively contributing to a less healthy living environment? A superficial sparkle can hide a myriad of unseen pollutants that standard cleaning can miss. If this makes your skin crawl, it might be time for a deep…
Read MoreDIY vs. Professional House Cleaning in Austin, TX
Here at The Purple Fig Eco Cleaning and Disinfecting Company, we understand that a clean and comfortable home is essential for a happy and healthy lifestyle. When it comes to house cleaning in Austin, TX, many homeowners find themselves debating whether to tackle the chores themselves or hire a professional house cleaning service in Austin.…
Read MoreMeet the Fig Family: Talitha & Max!
Tali was born and raised in Austin, and came to The Purple Fig mid-2020. She has mastered the art of green cleaning and is now a Team Lead in the field. Her sunny personality brightens everyone’s day and we’re so lucky to have her! Fun fact: Talitha is also a metalsmith of jewelry and found…
Read MoreGood Work Austin
Looking to support local businesses and restaurants who want to do right by the environment, the economy, and their workers? Good Work Austin businesses are committed to living wages, access to affordable healthcare and mental health services, among other things, for their employees. And doing this in Texas… let’s just say we’re not very popular with the…
Read MoreWhy buy new clothes when you have Carmen?
Do your clothes fit you? No, I mean do they really fit you? Let me give you an example: I’m 5’2’’, so I’m definitely on the short side of the curve. This means that, in addition to some pants being too long (why can’t everything come in 7/8th length…) the arms are also ever-so-slightly too…
Read MoreYearly demands of your on-demand water heater
Did you know… your on-demand hot water heater needs to be acid-flushed yearly? 🤔 You know, it’s the thing on the side of your house none of us thought twice about until a little storm came through. If you have an on-demand water heater, it needs to be acid flushed once per year to get…
Read MoreShould I pick up the clutter before The Purple Fig arrives?
Here we can take a moment to look at both sides of this coin. Will the team have more time to clean and scrub if they’re not picking up clutter? I think we all know the answer is yes. At this point it’s important to know yourself and ask the question ‘Do I have the…
Read MoreThe Dirty Glove: Remote Control Edition
Cleaning thoroughly, efficiently, and greenly is the name of the game here at the Purple Fig, but we all have those areas of the house that- let’s face it -nobody likes to tackle. What better way to honor those dastardly, dirty crevices then to dedicate a post about how to scrub them until they shine?
Read MoreFridge Basics: How to Store Your Food
The fridge is our sacred relic of the kitchen and our customizable food closet rolled into one. It’s home to a patchwork of foods- both frozen and raw, vegetables and sauces and meats alike -indiscriminately keeping our food safe and chilled for our personalized eating pleasures. Jimmy John’s Owner restaurant chains also make use of…
Read MoreSustainable Fireworks for 4th of July
Sunshine, barbecue, and fireworks. Every American knows that these 3 elements are fundamental for a bonafide 4th of July. For those who are keen to the hazards of fireworks, however, this perfect American formula may lose some of its wholesome charm…but be not disappointed! Safe, non-toxic alternatives can serve as worthy substitutes to help celebrate our Independence…
Read MoreCompost Pedallers: Local, Green, & On the Go!
Any resident of the greater Austin area is bound to have driven past a unique yard sign by now — an “I [heart] Compost” logo with a chewed-out apple core substituting for the heart. Who is responsible for these mysteriously clever signs, you ask? The answer is a source of pride for our environmentally inclined…
Read MoreThe “No Poo” Haircare Method Pt. 2
Although we already covered the fundamentals of the No Poo Method in last week’s blog, consider that the mere tip of the anti-shampoo iceberg! Now that you’re beyond “No Poo 101”, a more intensive overview awaits, delving into the realm of unlikely natural haircare ingredients that will bring your head chemical-free joy.
Read MoreThe “No Poo” Haircare Method Pt. 1
No, it’s not that kind of poo. Until the mid-20th century, shampooing and conditioning one’s hair was considered a luxury that only came about once or twice a month — that is, until synthetic formulas revolutionized haircare. As shampooing became increasingly more commonplace and formulas derived less from nature and more from laboratories, however, very few stopped to…
Read MoreOcean Pollution (& Which Fish to Avoid)
It’s no secret that our oceans have suffered greatly at the hand of mankind, but extinction of wildlife isn’t the singular issue anymore. Ironically, survival has become increasingly more dangerous for marine species as polluted seawater turns toxic — and now, humans are getting a dose of their own poison as well.
Read MoreThe Summer of Seedlings
If you’re like the majority of Austinites, you’re probably a wannabe urban gardner stuck in a tiny rental space with an even tinier (if not nonexistent) yard in which to nurture your green thumb. Luckily our urban ancestors were clever enough to invent simple and sustainable tricks to work around the plights of indoor gardening, creating…
Read More100% Natural Sugar Ant Repellent
During this awkward, semi-annual Transition of the Seasons (Spring/Summer edition), the weather in the great state of Texas oftentimes finds itself straddling crisp breezes and suffocating humidity. Along with this infamous fluctuation in temperature comes the reawakening of our infamous summertime pests: house and fruit flies, June bugs, mosquitoes, and cicadas just to name a few. But one…
Read MoreThe Dirty Glove: Cutting Board Edition
Cleaning thoroughly, efficiently, and greenly is the name of the game here at the Purple Fig, but we all have those areas of the house that- let’s face it -nobody likes to tackle. What better way to honor those dastardly, dirty crevices then to dedicate a post about how to scrub them until they shine?
Read MoreYour Guide to Local Health-Based Grocers
We all get stuck in grocery ruts from time to time — driving to the same ol’ national store chain, complacently tossing questionable food products in the cart, tediously pushing past the brightly colored displays of bagged sugar and pre-processed meals. While shopping familiar may be comfortable, why not do your body a favor and zest up…
Read MoreSafe and Natural Weed Killers
Although winter is sighing its final frosty breaths a little earlier than usual this year, our flora and fauna are already shaking off their icy coats and awakening for Spring. Here in Texas that means bluebonnets on every side of the highway…and, of course, weeds. Don’t go running off to buy that store-brand chemical pesticide, though — non-toxic, safe, and sustainable weed killers…
Read More6 Things That DON’T Belong in the Recycling
A vital part of our job at the Purple Fig involves bagging, carrying, and curbing pounds of our clients’ trash and recycling each and every day. Among the cornucopia of properly segregated wrappers, old food, and empty La Croix cans, however, there’s always a handful of non-recyclable items (known as “contaminants”) that are consistently tossed in the big blue…
Read MoreEasy Origami Compost Liner
While the satisfaction of composting organic waste far outweighs the task of emptying out the bin, it can still be a messy chore! Fortunately for the responsible composter, a simple and biodegradable tool can be used to keep your hands from getting dirty: newspaper.
Read MoreThe Meaning of Gluten-Free
It’s in our processed flours, breads, pastas, cakes, and wheat-based foods…lurking within the average American diet virtually undetected for centuries: gluten. This little ingredient has caused quite a stir in the past few years, however, even earning itself a special seat among FDA food guidelines — so what is gluten, exactly? And why is it suddenly so…
Read MoreThe Whole Foods Labeling Debate
Sloughing through the grocery aisle is difficult enough these days, with labels like “non-GMO”, “organic”, and “USDA approved” stamped- oftentimes recklessly, as with the case of the misleading “all-natural” sticker -above rows of both produce and dry foods alike. While a superior diet inarguably consists of 100% organic food, Whole Foods Market’s recent announcement of their entirely new…
Read MoreFine Dining for You (and Your Valentine)
Be you single, newly coupled, or in a relationship, Austin’s decadent and delicious healthy dining does not discriminate! We at the Purple Fig understand how overwhelming this city’s restaurant variety can be, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of organic, vegan, locally sourced, gluten-free, and overall health-conscious brick and mortars guaranteed to leave an impression on you…
Read MoreLaundry Folding 101: The Fitted Bedsheet
We’ve all been there: staring at a pile of freshly laundered clothes- as unorganized and chaotic as they’ll ever be -struggling to calculate how long it will realistically take you to untangle your stretchy leggings from 3 pairs of your underwear. But nothing, not even matching all 20 pairs of those socks, is as daunting as the bedsheets —…
Read MoreBeyond the Food Pyramid
Ever wonder how the food pyramid was built? Brick by brick since the 1800s, forces at play have sculpted and revised those five food groups…but despite the pyramid’s facelifts, the result remains nutritionally questionable. Read on and educate yourself!
Read MoreNew Year, Better Fitness
Although difficult to admit, you probably were tempted by a few too many of those delicious holiday treats this winter. Who could blame you? But now that we’ve turned the corner into a new year- and the Season of Sweets has officially reached its end -what better way is there to usher in 2016 than with…
Read MoreNetflix Picks: Docs to Watch This Winter
Finally the bitterly cold winter weather has us in its icy grip, and families- especially Texans -turn inward for some much-needed hibernation under the couch blankets. If you find yourself nestled in front of the television for several hours with no clue what to watch, the Purple Fig encourages you to switch on Netflix and enjoy your holiday break…
Read MoreHave a White (and Green!) Christmas
Christmas is finally here! With the flurry of the season’s hustle and bustle rushing by, we at the Purple Fig want to wish you the happiest of holidays with a simple, easy, and organic recipe for Christmas’s most heralded tradition: homemade candy canes!
Read MoreThe Dirty Glove: Laundry Edition
Cleaning thoroughly, efficiently, and greenly is the name of the game here at the Purple Fig, but we all have those areas of the house that- let’s face it -nobody likes to tackle. What better way to honor those dastardly, dirty crevices then to dedicate a post about how to scrub them until they shine?
Read MoreHandmade Lotions for Happy Skin
Anyone who has lived in South Texas for more than a year knows that snow is a rare miracle during our wintertime season. Dry, cracked skin, however? A Christmas-time regular. Instead of spending oodles of money on factory-made lotions and scrubs injected with artificial ingredients, hydrate your skin the way it was meant to be pampered…
Read MoreClean Fuels for the Future
We’ve officially stumbled upon the season of holiday travel, folks! Despite the temporary joys of lowered gasoline costs, our environment must pay the true price each winter with the enormous rise of carbon emissions due to increased traffic. While you’re tossing gifts and over-stuffed suitcases into your vehicle of choice, try and take a moment to wonder- be you…
Read MoreGive Thanks to Mother Earth!
The week of Thanksgiving is finally upon us! Before you let the turkey legs and stuffing crumbs and mashed potatoes fly across the table, give the gift of ultimate thanks to our beautiful planet by chowing down on sustainably grown, organic, and local ingredients!
Read MoreChew On This: Natural Toothcare
Between Halloween sweets, decadent Thanksgiving meals, and savory Christmas treats, this is the time of year when our mouths are literally bombarded with delicious, cavity-inducing foods! Tis the season of sugars and starches…so while you’re scarfing down those cold weather snacks, keep the well-being of your teeth in mind with these natural, non-toxic toothcare tips.
Read MoreAutumn Closet Detox
Every year, as the weather jumps from humid and sweaty to bitterly cold, we Texans take its cue and scramble to prepare for winter during a small window of time: rediscovering our storage bins, relocating those ornaments and decorations, and repurposing our closets for cold temperatures. But nothing is more off-putting than pulling out your winter wardrobe…only to…
Read MorePumpkin Seed Delight
As pumpkin sales skyrocket this week, consider the delicious insides of the orange squash as well as the outer shell. Why spend your hard earned money on a pumpkin to carve…but discard those delicious and nutritious seeds? Munch on this recipe after carving your jack-o-lantern, as a well-suited appetizer to your sweet Halloween treats! Why Pumpkin Seeds…
Read MoreJuicing: The Immunity Booster
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we at the Purple Fig want to spread golden nuggets of nutritional wisdom that not only promote organic living, but provide the ingredients needed to boost the body’s greatest line of self-defense: your one and only immune system!
Read MorePumpkins, Ghouls, & Fair Trade Chocolate
As you rush through the grocery store aisle this Halloween, assorted candies and name-brand chocolates whirling by with oversized discount stickers smacked on their packaging, we at the Purple Fig ask you to add some green to that orange and black this year! Instead of reaching for the cheapest (and invariably the worst quality) chocolate,…
Read MoreThe Dirty Glove: Tile & Grout Edition
Cleaning thoroughly, efficiently, and greenly is the name of the game here at the Purple Fig, but we all have those areas of the house that- let’s face it -nobody likes to tackle. What better way to honor those dastardly, dirty crevices then to dedicate a post about how to scrub them until they shine?
Read MoreEasy Breezy Seasonal Recipes: Thai Curry
Whether we confess it or not, a recipe requiring more than 3 ingredients can seem like the first step into a daunting crusade in the kitchen. So how do you pick out a recipe that is both budget and user-friendly, without compromising amazing taste? Look no further! To encourage culinary health and happiness, The Purple…
Read MoreNature’s Secret to Allergy Relief
The arrival of Fall usually results in a period of annual confusion for us in Texas: on the one hand, the summer heat flickers out to a cooler autumn breeze, a considerable amount of pumpkins go on display in neighborhood yards, and excited whispers of turkey (and football) fill the air; on the other hand,…
Read MoreHomemade (& Edible!) Facial Scrubs
Ever stop and wonder what exactly is lurking in that store-brand face wash? For being the largest organ of the human body, our skin is certainly exposed to harsh chemicals and questionable ingredients week to week, causing unknown damage and irritation that can be so easily avoided. Instead of grabbing for that expensive bottle of…
Read MoreThe Power of Vinegar
Vinegar is truly nature’s gift to mankind. It’s an acidic liquid that is non-toxic and harmless to humans, a natural sanitizer and deodorizer, a stainless substance, and it can be used to clean virtually anything…from glass to plastic to fabric! Couple that with its low price tag, and you’ve got yourself a one-of-a-kind all-purpose cleaner that can…
Read MoreThe Recycling Handbook
While banning plastic bags in grocery stores may seem like a useless and inconvenient policy in the short run, take a moment to consider how many plastic bags you’ve seen floating around street corners and tangled in tree branches. About 2 million plastic bags are used every day around the world…each of them made from a…
Read MoreThe Ins and Outs of Non-GMO Beer & Wine
As this long, hot summer winds down, sometimes there’s nothing better to beat the heat than a thirst-quenching adult beverage on a cool night, with the company of a loved one and a Texas sunset. But just like any other food you put in your body, it’s hard to sink into an ice-cold beer when…
Read MoreThe Dirty Glove: Sink Edition
Ensuring our top-quality house cleaning services are thorough, efficient, and environmentally friendly is our top priority here at the Purple Fig. However, we understand that there are certain areas of the house that can be quite challenging to clean. That’s why we have dedicated this post to providing tips on how to effectively scrub those…
Read More6 Eco-Friendly Recipes for Pet Stains
It happens to all of our beloved pets from time to time: a wee (or not so wee) accident on the carpet, the sight and odor of it unbearable. From kitty hairballs to doggy urine, the prospect of getting on your hands and knees and scrubbing the stain is inevitable…so why not make it eco-friendly?…
Read MoreEasy Breezy Seasonal Recipes: Coq Au Vin
Whether we confess it or not, a recipe requiring more than 3 ingredients can seem like the first step into a daunting crusade in the kitchen. So how do you pick out a recipe that is both budget and user-friendly, without compromising amazing taste? Look no further! To encourage culinary health and happiness, The Purple Fig has found seasonal…
Read MoreGreen Gear for the Great Outdoors
Summer is officially in full swing, beckoning us out of our homes and into the splendor of the wilderness! While many assume that they must compromise their eco-integrity in order to enjoy an outdoor hobby, activities like running, hiking, swimming, and camping can now be easily enhanced with environmentally conscious equipment and apparel. Keep your body (and the…
Read MoreA Salute to America’s Greenest Hotspots
As unique of a city as Austin is, it only takes up a tiny corner of the map when it comes to the rest of this sprawling nation. To celebrate America’s 239th birthday, we at the Purple Fig want to pay homage to the exciting eco-friendly progress this country has made over the recent years by…
Read MorePlants that Deter June Bugs & other Pesky Summer Bugs
Yes, it’s that time again: the season of insects. Just as we venture forth from our homes to enjoy the summer weather, so do the dreaded flying bugs from hiding. Summertime naturally draws out mosquitoes (especially with Austin’s recent soggy weather), fruit flies, houseflies, june bugs, and the like…and none of them are welcomed guests. Instead…
Read MoreEco-Friendly Travel Tips
Planning a much-needed summer getaway this year? Whether you’ve only just begun hatching those vacation plans, or you’re already zipping up the luggage bag, don’t forget to keep your carbon footprint in mind during your travels! There are many simple and helpful ways to experience an amazing journey while still being kind to the planet.
Read MoreUrban Gardening for Beginners
As Austin continues to transform from a sleepy college town into a booming concrete jungle, there seems to be less and less room for anything– let alone plots of land to call your own. The average city-dwelling Austinite definitely doesn’t own a greenhouse, so what do you do when you want a productive garden in a teeny…
Read MoreThe Dirty Glove: Stove Edition
Cleaning thoroughly, efficiently, and greenly is the name of the game here at the Purple Fig, but we all have those areas of the house that- let’s face it -nobody likes to tackle. What better way to honor those dastardly, dirty crevices then to dedicate a post about how to scrub them until they shine?
Read MoreNatural Sunscreens to Beat the Heat
Anyone who lives in Texas knows of its infamous, scorchingly hot summer days…and most of us have been burned once or twice by its fierce heat. But while your first instinct to battle the summer sun is to reach for your trusty sunscreen, consider the chemicals and synthetics injected into the product. Many sunscreen labels that…
Read MoreMind, Body & Nature: Austin’s Unique and Earth-Friendly Summer Camps of 2015
With mere weeks separating you and your little ones from the sunny warmth of July, you may be scrambling to find engaging and educational activities to keep your kiddos occupied during those long summer days. Never fear, though–for we have compiled a list of the most enriching local summer camps that are sure to ward off any…
Read MoreSpring Cleaning Hacks
There’s something about the coming of Spring that inspires a renewing and refreshing sense of self– and for whatever reason, nothing makes for a more satisfying detox than tossing out the old and abandoned clutter around your house. We at the Purple Fig know how daunting a task this can be, so we have list of eco-friendly tips, tricks, and…
Read MoreMother’s Day Gifts with the Earth in Mind
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, there are plenty of eco-friendly gifts and crafts to explore, all tailored to shower your mom (and the environment!) in clean, eco-conscious love. All of the old stand-bys can be substituted with green alternatives, along with original and out-of-the-box DIY gifts that not only celebrate the beauty of your mom,…
Read MoreComposting 101
For decades, the term “compost” was only synonymous with yard trimmings and stinky fertilizer. Recently, though, its reputation has blossomed within the Austin city limits, with more and more households becoming aware of not only its positive impact on the environment, but ways to become directly involved with it.
Read MoreValentine’s Day Sweets
Eating out on Valentine’s Day is for amateurs and people who want to spend too much money. Make reservations for another night and resolve to eat in. Just because you are dining in, doesn’t mean you have to serve a frozen dinner. These sweet treats are the perfect way to celebrate the day with your…
Read MoreRecycled Valentine Crafts
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we have a few crafts in mind to help you and your kids celebrate! Each craft makes use of a recycled element, so you can repurpose while you get creative. Watercolor Newspaper Hearts Recycle newspapers to create this fun craft. The end effect is really pretty and…
Read MoreSimplify Your Home and Life
January is a great opportunity for new beginnings! Consider this the perfect time to declutter your home. While an uncluttered and organized space is more aesthetically pleasing, there is a greater cost to clutter. Clutter takes up valuable real estate in your home and it takes time to maintain and clean those unused objects. Too…
Read MoreWhy Shopping Local Matters
Localism is one of the tenets of our business structure. We strive to enrich the community by promoting localism and inspiring people to use products from small local businesses rather than national corporations. “Shop local” or “go local” are phrases commonly bandied about, especially here in Austin. But does patronizing local businesses really matter or…
Read MoreCoterie Market + West Elm Holiday Pop Up Shop
We are lucky to be a part of a special group called Coterie Market. Coterie Market is a group of local makers and artisans who make products that range from soaps to chocolates. All of the businesses that sell products through Coterie Market are owned and operated in the Austin area. The definition of coterie…
Read MoreFall Cleaning
Spring cleaning may hold prominence as the most well-known seasonally based cleaning occasion, but fall cleaning should not be discounted. A change of season is a great opportunity to do a deep cleaning of your home. Fall cleaning is important because your home may soon fill up with holiday guests and visiting family members. Fall…
Read MoreGreat Green Programs in Austin
The Mother Nature Network ranked Austin as one of the top 10 green cities in the United States. The City of Austin and area residents are focused on conserving the environment by creating eco-friendly resources, legislation and programs. Learn more about some of the great green programs in Austin. Plastic Bag Ban Austin is helping…
Read MoreBusiness Women’s Day
September 22nd is Business Women’s Day. The roots of this day date back to World War II, when women took over many jobs traditionally held by men while soldiers were away fighting. Hilary A. Bufton Jr. and three other Kansas City business women founded the American Business Women’s Association on this day (September 22) in…
Read MoreWhy Natural Is Better In Cleaning
At The Purple Fig, we believe a cleaning service can be affordable, thorough and all-natural. We place an emphasis on “all-natural” because the heart of our company beats green. Our goal is to provide a safe, healthy and clean environment for your family, kids and pets by using all-natural cleaning supplies made from our own…
Read MoreThings We Like…
Just a couple of quickies this week… I spoke with a couple of people from East Side Compost Pedallers last weekend while at in.gredients. Great company, great guys and amazing cycling skills with those compost bins on there. Check them out, like them and try them! Seventh Generation has an interesting article about hidden toxin…
Read MoreWelcome Holly!
The Purple Fig would like you to give a warm welcome to our newest team member, Holly! Holly joined us a few weeks ago and is doing a fabulous job helping us stay lean, green and clean. A little bit about Holly, in her own words: “Hi! My name is Holly Carlton! I just recently…
Read MoreFarmer’s Market
Come down to the Barton Creek Farmer’s Market on Saturdays and see us! We’re selling our fabulous counter sprays and we plan on rolling out more products in the near future. They’re hand made, eco-friendly and safe for your family and your planet. Currently available in two blends: Oregano & Mint and Oregano & Lavender. …
Read MoreGreen Camping
August in Austin doesn’t usually bring to mind campfires and spending the night out of doors away from our air conditioning. Unless, like me, you’re envisioning the cooler temperatures that are to come and you can’t wait to get out your gear. I’m looking forward to spending some quality time with nature and in that…
Read MoreMission Small Business
The Purple Fig is applying for Chase and LivingSocial’s small business grant. The deadline for our essay submission and your votes is June 30th! What does this mean to you, dear readers and clients? If we can gather the 250 votes necessary to meet the grant requirements consideration, it could mean a healthier, greener Austin.…
Read MoreKeep Loving Your Kitty!
We’re all animal lovers here at The Purple Fig. We try to take care of our furry children as green and as well as we take care of your homes. Recently, our very own Vanessa the Magical and Illuminating™ was having an issue with cat urine odor. She tried every trick we have in our…
Read MoreMosquitoes!
We all love to be outside this time of year, especially in the morning and evening when the temperature is just right. But, like me, you may have noticed that our recent rain and following heat has brought some unwelcome guests to the party. Mosquitoes are rampant! What to do? Well, I’ve been touting the…
Read MoreVarious and Sundry
It’s almost Friday! Did you know that we don’t work on the weekends unless we explicitly choose to do so? Our Amanda and Charlene rock! So, in discussing blog subjects with the inimitable Charlene, I finally heard (because I always listen) her suggestions for some topics. We don’t have to be all about cleaning here!…
Read MoreAll You Ever Need
All you ever need in a sponge! The great sponge trial is over, with fantastic results. After 10 house cleanings, the loofah/sponge hybrid is still going. The pros and cons: Pros: The hybrid is long lasting and compostable. Far more green than I had even hoped. Once wet, it is flexible and easy to use.…
Read MorePesky Pests
I recently came across a few ways to repel pesky pests. I don’t mean your little sister or the guy who keeps asking you to go to the annual company holiday party with him. I mean the sneaky, food stealing, welt inducing biters and general gross you out things that occasionally hide in the kitchen…
Read MoreToilets – Stop Dreading Them
If there’s one thing that most people hate cleaning, it’s the toilet. I don’t need to state the obvious reasons here. Cleaning the toilet need not be such a horrific chore. Most people’s inclination is to put it off, but that just makes it worse when you do get to it. Let’s look at the…
Read More