You don't need a different product for every cleaning task -- some products serve purposes other than what their labels indicate.
Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
The term "green cleaning" refers to the use of vegetable-based materials to clean surfaces rather than chemical-laden detergents and solvents. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, many conventional cleaning products can irritate your skin, eyes and respiratory system and pose environmental risks (see References 1, under "Use Environmentally Preferable Cleaners"). Don't assume natural products are safer; there are a few things to know about successful green housekeeping at home, school or work.
Use Less
Part of greening your cleaning routine is to reduce the number of cleaning products you use. Despite marketing claims made by some manufacturers of conventional cleaners, it isn't always necessary to use a different product for each cleaning task in your home. For example, an eco-friendly antibacterial product will kill germs in the bathroom, as well as the ones in the kitchen. Likewise, a green product made to clean wood floors is likely suitable for wood furniture and paneling, too. If there is any doubt, check with the manufacturer.
Check Labels
While there are regulatory definitions for phrases such as "readily biodegradable," many other terms, for example, "bio-based," have much broader meanings (see References 1). Even the word "natural" is open to interpretation. Without regulation, the appearance of such non-standardized terms on the label doesn't necessarily mean that a product is made entirely from natural, biological agents. This marketing practice is "greenwashing," and it is intended to promote company image rather than inform the consumer (see References 4). Focus on the small print on the back of the label, which is usually more revealing than advertising claims on the front.
Buy Certified Products
There are reliable programs in place to help you make green purchasing decisions. The EPA's Design for the Environment Program is the leading third-party agency that certifies products deemed safer for people and the environment (see References 1). Other reputable certifying entities include Scientific Certification Systems and Green Seal (see References 1). Look for each certifier's distinctive logo or seal prominently displayed on the product label.
Widen the Scope
Because a clean and healthy environment is as important at work and school as it is at home, green cleaning practices apply to these areas, too. The EPA has devised programs to educate facility administrators in the purchase, use and storage of safer cleaning products for janitorial services provided in schools, offices and other institutions. In schools, the agency says, cleaning products can compromise indoor air quality and aggravate allergies in children (see References 2). To help reduce these effects, the EPA provides "IAQ Tools for Schools," an action plan based on case studies of schools that have successfully implemented green cleaning initiatives to improve indoor air quality (see References 2). Similarly, federal agencies can use the guidelines provided in the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing program (see References 3). If you're concerned about the cleaning products used in your school or office, use these tools to advocate for change.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Design for the Environment
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) Tool
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Green Cleaning Pollution Prevention Calculator
- TerraChoice: The Seven Sins of Greenwashing
Karyn Maier has been a full-time freelance writer since 1992 specializing in health, particularly botanical therapies. She has written many feature articles and columns for numerous national magazines, including "Better Nutrition," "Your Health" and "Mother Earth News," and she has authored numerous natural health-related books currently published in four languages. She also has more than 10 years' experience as a legal assistant.
- Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
