Why Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies
Switching to eco-friendly cleaning supplies is one of the best things I can do to make my home healthier for my family. Conventional cleaning products often contain toxic chemicals like ammonia, bleach, formaldehyde, and phosphates. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to asthma, cancer, reproductive issues, endocrine disruption, and other health problems. By choosing non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaners instead, I can avoid exposing my family to these harmful ingredients.
Here are some key reasons why I choose eco-friendly cleaning products:
- Improved indoor air quality: Eco-friendly cleaners release far fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air compared to conventional cleaners. VOCs can cause respiratory irritation and exacerbate asthma.
- Protection from toxic chemicals: Eco-friendly cleaners avoid ingredients like ammonia, bleach, and formaldehyde that are known or suspected human carcinogens and toxicants. These chemicals are unsafe for kids and pets.
- Environmental benefits: Eco-friendly cleaners are biodegradable and non-toxic to aquatic life. They help protect the environment from toxic chemical pollution. Conventional cleaners harm fish and other wildlife.
- Cost savings: Although eco-friendly cleaners sometimes cost more upfront, they go further since you can use them for multiple cleaning jobs. Diluting concentrated cleaners at home saves money.
- Simplicity: Eco-friendly cleaners often use plant-based ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, and plant soaps. Fewer synthetic chemicals mean less risk of reactions for those with sensitive skin.
Evaluating Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
When shopping for eco-friendly cleaning supplies, I look for products certified by reputable third-party organizations like:
- EcoLogo – Products must meet standards for reduced environmental impact and human health.
- Green Seal – Standards address health, environmental toxicity, and product performance.
- EPA Safer Choice – Ensures products use safer chemical ingredients.
- USDA Biopreferred Program – Certifies products made from renewable biological materials.
I also check product labels and avoid cleaners containing:
- Synthetic dyes and fragrances – Can contain hundreds of unlisted chemicals.
- Phthalates – Endocrine-disrupting plasticizers.
- Formaldehyde – Classified as a known human carcinogen.
- Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs) – Hormone disruptors that persist in the environment.
- Ammonia – Respiratory irritant.
- Chlorine bleach – Creates carcinogenic byproducts when it reacts with other chemicals and compounds in the home.
Instead, I look for plant-based ingredients like citric acid, vinegar, baking soda, plant oils, essential oils, and plant-derived soaps.
Eco-Friendly Products for Common Cleaning Needs
Here are some of my favorite eco-friendly cleaning solutions for common cleaning needs around the home:
Kitchen
- All-purpose cleaner: Vinegar, water, essential oils
- Dishes: Castile soap, baking soda
- Counters: Vinegar, essential oils
- Appliances: Baking soda paste
- Windows/mirrors: Vinegar, water, essential oils
Bathrooms
- Surfaces: Vinegar, essential oils
- Toilet: Baking soda, vinegar
- Shower/tub: Liquid castile soap, baking soda
Floors
- Vinyl/linoleum: Vinegar, essential oils
- Tile: Vinegar, water
- Wood: Olive oil, vinegar
Laundry
- Stain removers: Baking soda, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide
- Detergent: Plant-based detergents, soap nuts
Air Fresheners
- Essential oils
- Simmering potpourri
- Baking soda
All-Purpose Cleaners
- DIY cleaners: Vinegar, water, lemon juice, essential oils
- Ready-made: Seventh Generation, Mrs. Meyer’s, ECOS, etc.
With a little creativity, I can easily whip up effective eco-friendly cleaners using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and plant oils I already have in my pantry. And there are more and more ready-made natural cleaning products available from green brands. Choosing eco-friendly supplies is an easy way to remove toxic chemicals from my home.
