The benefits of green cleaning products

We hear a lot these days about things being ‘green’, but what does ‘green’ actually mean, and how is it better than what we already have?

When something is described as being ‘green’, it generally means that it has been created with natural ingredients or products, and is free from harmful industrial chemicals. These chemicals can be added to products such as laundry detergent, shampoo, floor cleaner and soap to clean more effectively, but are added without any thought as to their effects on the human body and the environment in general. So how are we to know what’s good and what’s bad?

Here we break down the major health and environmental benefits of green cleaning products in the home

Health

Certain products used in home cleaning contain chemicals that, once inhaled can damage the lungs and contribute to the development of asthma. Products such as bleach, detergents and air fresheners can release chemicals into the air that are toxic to the lungs and airways when exposed to over a long period of time. Many of these chemicals can also cause eye and skin irritation.

Environment

The main benefit to the environment of using eco-friendly cleaning products is that less toxic and harmful chemicals find their way down our sinks and drains and into our soils and oceans. These chemicals can alter the acidity of the soil that affects how plants grow, as well as causing pollution in oceans and waterways.

So how can we stop this?

The easiest answer to this question is to just go out and buy products from the supermarket labelled ‘green’ to replace your existing products, but like every easy answer, it isn’t usually the best one. A lot of so-called ‘green’ or ‘eco-friendly’ products are culprits of ‘greenwashing’, a nicer way of saying they lie about how green they really are. This means it’s not very easy on face value to determine how safe one cleaning product is over another, and even more confusion ensues. (A great resource for spotting greenwashing can be found here). You might be saying at this point “well this is rubbish, you didn’t give me a solution at all”, but don’t fear, we’re not done yet. The best and most satisfying method for reducing the number of chemicals you’re exposed to in your home is to actually make your own from every day ingredients. This will give you the confidence to know that your home is chemical-free as well as the satisfaction of saving money in the process.

Some of our favourite homemade cleaners can be found below:

• All-purpose cleaner – Combine ¼ cup of vinegar with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in one litre of hot water, and use with a sponge or cloth to scrub down surfaces and windows. Add a couple of drops of your favourite essential oil for a beautiful smell.
• Oven cleanser — Put a heatproof dish filled with water in the oven. Turn on the heat to let the steam soften any baked-on grease. Once the oven is cool, apply a paste of equal parts salt, baking soda, and vinegar, and scrub.
• Bathroom mildew remover — Good ventilation helps prevent mildew and mold. When they do occur, make a spray with 2 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon each of tea-tree and lavender oil. Shake first and spray on trouble spots. The oils break down the mildew so there’s no need to wipe it down.
• Carpet shampoo — Mix 3 cups water, ¾ cup vegetable-based liquid soap, and 10 drops peppermint essential oil. Rub the foam into soiled areas with a damp sponge. Let dry thoroughly and then vacuum.

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