I know how important it is to have a clean house—I’m in the cleaning business! I work hard to insure that my clients’ homes are clean and fresh during each visit. Sunrise Cleaning Service uses environmentally safe cleaning products because we understand the importance of protecting those you love. Let’s face it; cleaning products are necessary to maintain attractive and healthful conditions in your home and workplace. Cleaning your home makes it a healthy place to live—removing dust, allergens and infectious germs from your home. But what about cleaning products—are they part of the solution or part of the problem?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests that normal cleaning products can present several health and environmental concerns:
“They may contain chemicals associated with eye, skin, or respiratory irritation, or other human health issues. Additionally, the concentrated forms of some commercial cleaning products are classified as hazardous, creating potential handling, storage, and disposal issues for users.”
Do the benefits of environmentally safe or “green” cleaners outweigh the hazards?
Yes! Regular household cleaning products can release volatile components or chemicals into the air and can also leave toxic residues or pollute the water when we rinse them down the drain.—the drain that leads to the bay that is home to fish and other wildlife. Other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in cleaning products can affect indoor air quality and also contribute to outdoor air quality. We lock these compounds away in closets or under the sink to keep them from our children and pets—but we don’t consider what they may be doing to our own bodies. Is it worth the risk?
Several companies now produce “green” cleaners that avoid ingredients that are toxic or don’t biodegrade. Check our website for a list of cleaners that I have available or shop around online. When purchasing these products make sure that the manufacturer clearly defines their green claims. Green cleaners can also be made from a range of safer substances you might already have around the house. These types of cleaners are:
- Safe for your health, home, office, children, pets, babies, employees, and tenants
- Don’t harm the earth and create healthier surroundings
- Can reduce costs
What’s the right solution?
Think about purchasing environmentally safe or “green” cleaning products. If you’re adventurous try making your own safer alternatives. Visit my website for some alternatives to toxic cleaning products or try out the “recipe” below and let me know how it works!
Furniture or Floor Polish
Mix 1/2-cup lemon juice and 1 cup vegetable oil or olive oil.