If you've got kiddos you're likely interested in non-toxic, safe, green cleaners. Even if you don't have kids you should consider safer greener cleaners so you're not exposed to icky chemicals. The best way to make sure your cleaners are safe and eco-friendly is to make your own homemade green cleaners, because you know what's in them, not to mention they cost less. But not everyone has time, so if you're going to go with store bought green cleaners make sure they're really non-toxic.
STEP 1: READ YOUR LABELS
Pretty little pictures or a green bottle mean nothing. Green living is a hot topic and plenty of companies want to cash in on this fact. However, it makes no sense to buy green cleaners that aren't so green.
Terms to look for on cleaning bottles include:
Terms you DO NOT want to see on a cleaning bottle include:
STEP 2: SUPPORT FULL DISCLOSURE
Many companies won't disclose their ingredients which to me is a red flag that they've got something to hide. Look for products that give full ingredient lists on their products, at their websites, or if you call them up and ask. A company who says, “Natural ingredients” or has a super scanty ingredient list is a company to be leery of. They could do better.
STEP 3: LOOK FOR ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING
Do you make green cleaners or buy store bought cleaners?
STEP 1: READ YOUR LABELS
Pretty little pictures or a green bottle mean nothing. Green living is a hot topic and plenty of companies want to cash in on this fact. However, it makes no sense to buy green cleaners that aren't so green.
Terms to look for on cleaning bottles include:
- Ammonia free
- Chlorine free
- Plant based
- Biodegradable
- Certified USDA organic
- Solvent free
- Phosphate free
- Chemical free
- Fragrance free (or if you're not sensitive products scented with essential oils can be good too)
- Dye and artificial color free
Terms you DO NOT want to see on a cleaning bottle include:
- “Poison” or “Danger.” Federal law mandates that these terms indicate the highest possible level of hazard.
- “Caution” or “Warning,” both mean a product carries a moderate hazard.
- “Wear gloves” – “Only use in a well ventilated area” and other likewise terms. If you need to wear gloves or a face mask or other protective gear simply to clean, how safe can that product be?
STEP 2: SUPPORT FULL DISCLOSURE
Many companies won't disclose their ingredients which to me is a red flag that they've got something to hide. Look for products that give full ingredient lists on their products, at their websites, or if you call them up and ask. A company who says, “Natural ingredients” or has a super scanty ingredient list is a company to be leery of. They could do better.
STEP 3: LOOK FOR ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING
- Is it excessive?
- What's it made of? Is it recyclable?
- Can you refill it or buy a large bulk size?
Do you make green cleaners or buy store bought cleaners?
