Green Cleaning

What is 'Green Cleaning'?
Green Cleaning is defined as cleaning to protect health without harming the environment. With the health and environmental impacts of conventional cleaning products becoming more thoroughly understood, brands of healthy, green, and effective cleaning products have been introduced into the market. Many of these products are non-toxic, biodegradable, made from renewable resources and are petroleum-free. Consumers can also create home-mixed cleaners that are equally effective, and safer for people as well as the environment.

Why Practice 'Green Cleaning'?
- 63 synthetic chemical products are found in the average American home, translating to roughly 10 gallons of harmful chemicals.
- Indoor air pollution levels can be 100 times greater than outdoor air pollution levels, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates.
- 5 billion pounds of chemicals are used each year by the institutional cleaning industry.
- Only 30 percent of the 17,000 petrochemicals available for home use have been tested for exposure to human health and the environment.
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Proper Disposal of Old Cleaning Products
When replacing your cleaning products, don�t just throw the old products in the trash. Toxic to the home, those same products are harmful when put down the drain and in the landfill because often times they can turn back up in the water supply. Most areas have a household hazard waste collection center. In addition, many communities hold toxics and electronics recycling days that will properly dispose of the old cleaning products. Call 1-800-CLEANUP for more information.

Make your own 'Green Cleaners'

All Purpose Cleaner
1/2 teaspoon sodium carbonate (soda ash)
Dab of liquid soap
2 cups hot water
Combine in a spray bottle; shake till all powder has dissolved.
Apply and wipe off residue with a rag or sponge.

Glass Cleaner
1 gallon water
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon liquid dish detergent

Furniture Polish
1 cup vegetable or olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
Mix in a spray bottle, shake well and apply a small amount to a cloth.

Drain Cleaner
Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup vinegar.
Cover the drain and allow to sit for 15 minutes.
Flush with 2 quarts boiling water.

Purchase 'Green Cleaners'
Green Cleaners are not regulated or certified by any government agency or department, including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. However, there are several independent certifiers below that can be of assistance in finding green cleaners.

Green Seal Green Certified Products/Services
www.greenseal.org

EcoLogo Green Products Database
www.ecologo.org

MBDC Cradle to Cradle Certification
www.c2ccertified.com

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