Did you know that no standards exist for "green" cleaning product regulations or standards? Unlike food products, the order of ingredients listed on cleaning solutions does not represent the relative amounts within the product. This can easily lead to confusion about which products are best and safest to use.
Therefore, I have put together a little guide to help weed through any uncertainty.
1. As with any kind of "green" claim - be weary of green washing
2. Avoid products that are not specific about their ingredients, just because something says it's "safe, biodegradable, natural, earth friendly or green" does not necessarily mean that it is good for you and your home. Ask yourself questions. Is it safe for the environment? Is it safe for humans? What is it made out of (ie.: is it plant or petroleum based)? Is it recyclable? And remember a "natural" product can contain chemicals.
3. A few companies that focus on producing environmentally friendly products for the home are:
1. Mrs. Meyers
2. Simple Green
3. Seventh Generation
4. Earth Friendly Products (ECOS)
Click on the image below to read more about what makes a cleaning product "green".
According to Consumer Reports, Cleaning Products: Green Buying Guide (2007) these ingredients should be avoided:
-Ammonia
-Antibacterials
-Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs)
-Butyl Cellosolve
-Chlorine bleach
-d-limonene
-Diethanolamine (DEA)
-Triethanolamine (TEA)
-Disinfectants
-Fragrances
-Hydrochloric acid
-Naptha
-Petroleum based cleansers
-Phosphates
-Sodium hydroxide (lye)
-Sulfuric acid
For more information visit:
Greener Choices
The Green Guide
Consumer Reports