Routine household care
Source guide: choosing greener cleaning products
An extractive household guide based on “Identifying Greener Cleaning Products | US EPA.”
Materials
- Ecolabels are a good tool to help purchasers quickly and easily identify products that are "greener".
- However, it is important for consumers to be careful in interpreting vague or generic claims on products such as "environmentally friendly," "eco safe," or "green" (also known as "greenwashing").
- To make it easier for purchasers to identify greener cleaning products, EPA manages the Safer Choice program , which certifies products that contain safer ingredients for human health and the environment.
- In addition to the Safer Choice label, EPA offers the Design for the Environment (DfE) label on antimicrobial products, such as disinfectants and sanitizers.
Steps
- EPA provides online search tools to help consumers and purchasers find Safer Choice and DfE-certified products.
- Cleaning products are released to the environment during normal use through evaporation of volatile components and rinsing down the drain of residual product from cleaned surfaces, sponges, etc.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOC) in cleaning products can affect indoor air quality and also contribute to smog formation in outdoor air.
- Designed for use in cold water in order to conserve energy.
- Clear labeling and information on use and disposal.
Safety and boundaries
- Never mix bleach with ammonia, acids, vinegar, alcohol, or other cleaners.
- Follow the authoritative source and every product or equipment label and direction.
- Stop and use a qualified professional or the appropriate authority for hazardous materials, mold, asbestos, biohazards, or conditions outside routine household cleaning.
Sources
Identifying Greener Cleaning Products | US EPA
To make it easier for purchasers to identify greener cleaning products, EPA manages the Safer Choice program , which certifies products that contain safer ingredients for human health and the environment.
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