Toxin-Free Cleaning Tips

Many of us have taken to living a more “green” life.  We may grow some or all of our own fruits and vegetables organically.  We may purchase natural or organic foods from local suppliers, including our meats.  We may practice the 3 R’s (Reuse, Reduce, Recycle).  We may take herbal supplements, rather than man-made drugs.  We may even be influencing our friends and family to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle by leading through example–which is fantastic!

However, it’s surprising to find that most of us don’t take into account how eco-conscious we are when it comes to keeping our homes (and ourselves) clean.  We make an effort not to ingest chemicals from the foods we eat, yet we’re not concerned with the chemicals used to clean the dishes we eat our foods off of?  Or the chemical fumes we breath in from the household cleaners we use?  Or the health effects from the soaps we use on our bodies and our clothing?  Hmm…seems strange to me.

So, following I will share with you a few eco-friendly product lines you can use to clean your home and yourself.  Many of these can be purchased in any grocery store and certainly online.  In addition, I’ll provide a few links you can go to to find out more about non-toxic cleaning supplies and home-made recipes you can make yourself!

Green Works

• “When we created Green Works® natural cleaners, no industry standard definition for natural cleaners existed. To create Green Works® natural cleaners we set ourselves a very stringent standard. The ingredients must come from renewable resources, be biodegradable and be free of petrochemicals. Green Works® cleaners are at least 95% natural. In certain cases we had to use synthetic ingredients, like the preservative and green colorant. But we’re working hard to develop natural alternatives so the entire line can be 100% natural. Recently, the Natural Products Association announced an industry standard for natural home care products. We are thrilled to know that a standard definition for natural will soon be in place, and we plan to apply for certification of Green Works® products as soon as possible.” -Greenworks

• Offer all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, bathroom cleaner, window cleaner, liquid dish soap, cleaning wipes, laundry stain remover, laundry detergent, and a few other products.

Seventh Generation

• “Restore is the next reduce, reuse, recycle. We are working to ensure that our products have a circular lifecycle, meaning natural resources are being used and renewed at a rate that is always below their rate of depletion.  Our focus is to inspire thoughtful consideration of each purchase—from the immediate impact of the products you buy (Is it safe? Is it gentle on the earth? Does it work?), to the broader impact throughout their lifecycle.  We’re committed to making sure that everyone our company interacts with—from the farmers who grow our lavender to the customers who use our products—are treated fairly and with respect.” -Seventh Generation

• Offer cleaning wipes, all-purpose cleaner, bathroom cleaner, dishwashing powder, fabric softner, laundry detergent, dish soap, stain remover, glass cleaner, paper towels, trash bags, feminine products, and much more.

Earth Friendly Products

• “Earth Friendly Products gives you an honest-to-goodness, power-packed clean – without toxins, petrochemicals, bleach, ammonia, phosphates or other harmful ingredients.  We pledge that our products are environmentally responsible, work well and provide value. We will never test on animals or use animal ingredients. We will conduct business in a socially responsible manner that safeguards the earth.” -Earth Friendly Products

• Offer all-purpose cleaners, air freshener, carpet shampoo, stain remover, kitchen cleanser, dish soap, fruit and veggie wash, laundry detergent, bathroom tissue, toilet bowl cleaner, and many more products.

In addition to these more well-known brands, there are plenty of smaller companies who produce earth-friendly cleaning supplies as well.  And, if you’re feeling motivated, you could always try whipping up a concoction yourself!

Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products

Non-Toxic Home Cleaning

5 Basics for Non-Toxic Cleaning

Until next time, take care and happy gardening (and cleaning)!