Green Cleaning
Going green to clean house is not only better for the environment, it’s safer for you, too. Here you'll find tips on how to clean green.
By Lisa Milbrand
Harsh chemicals found in many common household cleaners can pose serious threats to health, especially for those with allergies and autoimmune and respiratory conditions.
More than one-third of Americans have reported some sensitivity to chemicals commonly found in cleaners in the home and workplace, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in
Cleaning products. Less harmful cleaning products can be whipped up from ingredients found in your pantry. For example, vinegar and water makes an excellent and streak-free window cleaner. (Click here for recipes) If you don’t want to make your own, many hypoallergenic cleaners are available. Both Sun and Earth and Enviro-Rite’s lines of fruit- and vegetable-based cleaners work well for those allergic to common chemicals found in everyday cleaners, including trichloroethylene, which can cause fatigue and dizziness, and methylene chloride, a potential carcinogen that’s sometimes found in aerosol sprays and stain removers. The line includes everything from bathroom cleaners to laundry detergent.
Microfiber cloths. The tiny fibers in these newest additions to a green cleaner’s arsenal can pick up the smallest pieces of dirt and grime with just a little added water. Researchers in
Steam cleaners. Even good, old-fashioned, all-natural steam can be an excellent cleaner and requires almost no elbow grease to cleanse and disinfect. The Reliable Steamboy ($100) is safe on all sealed floors. The SteamFast Aurora Steam Cleaner ($130) comes with brushes and squeegees to clean bathroom tile, kitchen counters and windows, and can deodorize carpeting, upholstery and other soft surfaces.
