Why Earth Friendly Cleaners?

2009-06-15T15:41:00.001-07:00

These days many people are asking themselves; "Why should I use earth friendly cleaners?" It may seem like it is just another fad or trend but many people in the cleaning industry and others involved with the green phenomenon believe that this is just the beginning of a cultural transformation away from the chemicals we use in our daily lives. Traditional cleaners infect our lungs with carcinogens, barrage the strength of our immune system, and expose us to unnecessary physical stress. They are also slow to biodegrade, often remaining present in the earth's soil and environment for generations. Why then should we be slaves to the marketing power of the cleaning manufacturers of today who have made us believe that we need chemicals to clean?

Toxicity: The facts….

¨ A 15 year study in Oregon, comparing women who didn't work outside the home with women who did, found a 54% higher death rate from cancer in the women who stayed at home. The study suggested that chronic exposure to cleaning products played a role. (The Seventh Generation Guide to a Toxin Free Home)

¨ EPA studies of human exposure to air pollutants indicate that indoor air levels of many pollutants may be 2-5 times, and occasionally, more than 100 times higher than outdoor levels. Cleaning products and other household products are among the culprits (Environmental Protection Agency-EPA).

¨ Approximately 85,000 chemicals are in use today. According to the Breast Cancer Fund, complete toxicological screening data is available for only 7% of these chemicals, and more than 90% have never been tested for their effects on human health. (Breast Cancer Fund)

¨ "Household cleaning products rank among the most toxic everyday substances to which people are exposed…most chemical brands are not safe. Some especially toxic household cleaners include ammonia, chlorine bleach, aerosol propellants, detergents, petroleum distillates and toluene. Many of these substances not only harm the skin; they also give off toxic fumes that affect the person using the product and everyone else. Symptoms from 'the flu' to headaches have been associated with products we use to clean our furniture, bathrooms and clothes, as well as air fresheners to keep our bathrooms smelling pleasant (Raymond Francis, M.Sc., Never Be Sick Again)."

Making your home safer for your family….

Use organic cleaning products. These products have proven to clean just as well if not better than traditional cleaning products without the side effects associated with the use of toxic chemical cleaners.

Some tips to make your home safer….

1) Open the windows and get plenty of fresh air circulation

2) Be especially wary of antibacterial cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, paints, stains, aerosol sprays, and air fresheners

3) Instead use all naturally based non-toxic cleaners

4) Fill your home with houseplants to help clean your air

5) Avoid the following chemicals: alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), ammonia, antibacterials, butyl cellosolve, chlorine bleach, diethanolamine, fragrance, phosphates, sodium hydroxide, sodium lauryl sulfate

6) Look for products that are biodegradable

7) Manufacturers that give plenty of information on their products

Simply by switching your chemical, toxic cleaning products over to green, earth friendly cleaners you can easily make your home safer for your family and pets. So what are you waiting for? Go Green!