Clean Green

Just how safe are your household cleaners? Are you sure that you and your family  are not being exposed to harmful chemicals? This week’s tip is about Green  housekeeping and learning about Green methods and options for cleaning.    

There are currently no standards for the labeling on cleaning products or any  requirements to disclose all ingredients. Additionally, unlike foods, the order  of ingredients listed is not reflective of  greatest amount to least amount.  Many products on the market claim to be “natural”, “safe”, biodegradable”, and  “eco-friendly” but are left unregulated. The terms are vague and can be left to  interpretation Here are some ways to avoid false marketing claims and clean  healthier.

    • Look for the word “organic.”  

Cleaning products that have the word organic on them are the only products that have passed Federal standards.

    • Read the labels.  

Avoid products containing the following harmful chemicals: Ammonia, butyl cellosolve, chlorine bleach, d-limonene, disinfectants, fragrances, hydrochloric and sulfuric acid, naptha, petroleum-based ingredients, phosphates, sodium  hydroxide (lye), and diethenolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA).

     • Make your own (non-toxic) cleaners.  

Baking soda can be used to clean in the kitchen, to treat stains, and remove odors. White vinegar can be used to help kill germs, kill weeds, as well  deodorize the home. Hydrogen peroxide can be used in place of bleach for stain  removal and bleaching and killing of germs. Borax could be used to freshen  laundry and cream of tartar can be used to remove stains in bathtubs/showers.  Home made cleaning recipes can be found at greenerchoices.org and thegreenguide.com.

    • Do the research to find healthier products before you get to the store.  

Green Seal and the EPA’s Design for the Environment are two organizations identifying green household products. (Greenseal.org and epa.gov/dfe) Two of the  most familiar brands I noted from the websites were the Green Works and Method  cleaning products. I personally use Mrs. Meyers all-purpose cleaner; you dilute  it and it last forever, cleans everything, and the lavender scent is refreshing.