Cleaning "Green"

Cleaning homes is easier than it's ever been thanks to a variety of modern cleaning products that make quick work of dirt, grease, and grime. But many people don’t realize that today’s household cleaners often contain synthetic chemicals that can make the simple act of cleaning a hazardous task.
Researchers have linked many of the chemicals found in conventional cleaning products to illnesses that include allergies and asthma, cancer and reproductive issues. The problems these chemicals cause don't happen overnight. Only very rarely will the use of a chemical cleaner one day make us sick the next. Instead, even though we don't realize it, we're exposed to small amounts of the toxic chemicals in a cleaner's formula every time we use it. We inhale a little bit of the product when we spray it or smell its fumes. We absorb it through our skin. We even sometimes accidentally eat it when it goes from our hands or the air into our food or drink.
The solution to this problem is to use environmentally safe "green cleaners", which are made from non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients like pure vegetable oils, natural minerals, and harmless hydrogen peroxide. These products don't expose us to dangerous chemicals nor do they pollute the air we breathe.
If you’re wondering whether "green cleaners" work, the answer is yes they do! Tests show that green cleaning products clean as well or better than conventional cleaners.
Green kitchen, glass, bath, laundry and all-purpose cleaning products are the right choice for people who clean homes. They get the job done safely and effectively!
Green cleaning products are available in Canada from several manufacturers, including Seventh Generation. Seventh Generation makes products that are natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, and hypo-allergenic.
Here are five tips for healthier green cleaning:

1. Dust with a slightly damp cloth to trap and remove dust. Feather dusters can stir dust back into the air.
2. Use cleaning products that are free and clear of perfumes and dyes to avoid chemical ingredients that can trigger allergies and asthma.
3. Air out rooms frequently, even in winter.
4. Read the label before you buy a cleaning product.
5. Choose cleaning products that contain only natural ingredients.