Keeping my home clean is very important to me, but I also want to avoid exposing my family to harsh chemicals and toxins. That’s why I’ve made the switch to using green, eco-friendly cleaning products that get the job done without harsh fumes or ingredients that are dangerous to inhale or touch.
Why Choose Green Cleaning Products?
Conventional cleaning products often contain chemicals like ammonia, bleach, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Many mainstream cleaning products also contribute to indoor air pollution.
Here are some key reasons why I’ve chosen to use green cleaning products in my home:
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Safer for my family’s health – Green products avoid using caustic, toxic chemicals that can cause long-term health issues. They help minimize our exposure to potentially harmful ingredients.
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Environmentally friendly – Most conventional cleaners contain chemicals that are not biodegradable. Green cleaners are often plant-based, biodegradable, and better for the environment.
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Less indoor air pollution – Green products release fewer VOCs and other fumes during and after cleaning. This creates better indoor air quality for my home.
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Safer if accidentally ingested – If a child or pet accidentally ingests a green cleaner, it is less likely to make them sick than conventional cleaners that contain corrosive ingredients.
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More sustainable formulas – Eco-friendly cleaners are often concentrated, so you use less product overall. Their packaging is reusable, recyclable or biodegradable.
What to Look for in Green Cleaning Products
Ingredients
When shopping for green cleaning products, I look for these safer, eco-friendly ingredients:
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Plant-based – Products made from plants like coconut oil, corn, palm oil, soy, etc. These are biodegradable.
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Essential oils – Oils like lavender, eucalyptus, lemon provide fragrance without VOCs.
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Baking soda – A mild abrasive that cuts grease and freshens.
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Hydrogen peroxide – A natural bleaching agent.
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Vinegar – Cuts grease and kills bacteria.
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Citric acid – Derived from citrus fruits. Used in bathroom cleaners.
I avoid products with:
- Ammonia
- Bleach
- Formaldehyde
- Parabens
- Phosphates
- Sulfates
- Synthetic dyes & perfumes
Certifications
These third-party certifications indicate a cleaning product is truly green:
- EPA Safer Choice
- Green Seal
- USDA Certified Biobased
- EWG Verified
Types of Cleaners
Here are some of the best green cleaning products I use in every room of my home:
Kitchen
- Countertop spray – Tea tree oil, thyme oil, vinegar, water
- Dish soap – Castile soap (sal suds) or Seventh Generation
- Window cleaner – Equal parts vinegar and water
Bathroom
- Disinfectant – Thyme oil mixed with vinegar
- Scrub – Baking soda and castile soap
- Toilet bowl cleaner – Baking soda and vinegar
Floors
- Hardwood cleaner – White vinegar and water
- Tile & laminate cleaner – Castile soap and water
- Carpet spot cleaner – Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, dish soap
Laundry
- Detergent – Seventh Generation, ECOS hypoallergenic formulas
- Bleach alternative – Oxygen bleach without chlorine
- Fabric softener – White vinegar in rinse cycle
Multi-Purpose
- All-purpose cleaner – Vinegar, water, essential oils
- Glass/windows – 50/50 white vinegar and water
- Wood polish – Olive oil and lemon juice
Best Practices When Using Green Cleaners
To get the best results from green cleaning products:
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Always follow label directions carefully. Many eco-friendly cleaners require longer dwell time than conventional ones to be effective.
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Use microfiber cloths and sponges – these grab and remove dirt and grime more effectively than paper towels or regular sponges.
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Start with the gentlest cleaner first before trying stronger ones to avoid overuse.
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Store green cleaners properly in cool, dry areas to maintain their potency.
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Combine cleaning methods like scrubbing and soaking along with green cleaners to maximize results.
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Open windows, use fans, or run ventilation when possible during and after cleaning to circulate fresh air.
Making Your Own Green Cleaning Products
Many effective green cleaners can be made right at home using common, safe ingredients. Here are a few of my favorite DIY cleaner recipes:
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1⁄2 cup vinegar
- 1⁄4 cup baking soda
- 1 tsp liquid castile soap
- 10 drops essential oil (optional)
- Water
Glass & Window Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Wood Furniture Polish
- 3 parts olive oil
- 1 part lemon juice
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar
- 5 drops tea tree oil
Making my own green cleaners allows me to control the ingredients, avoid excess packaging, and save money. I feel good knowing exactly what’s in the products used to clean my home.
Bottom Line
Going green with my home cleaning supplies has made a big difference in improving my indoor air quality while also keeping bathrooms, floors, laundry and more hygienically clean. The best eco-friendly products use plant-based ingredients that get surfaces sparkling without toxic chemicals. With so many effective options now available, it’s easier than ever to keep my home clean the green way!
