Greener Cleaning Tips
Many manufacturers of household cleaners do not disclose all ingredients on product labels, making it difficult for consumers to choose safer products. That's why EWG developed the guide to healthy cleaning. It rates cleaning products on ingredient hazards as well as disclosure.
Avoid these three categories:
BLEACH AND QUAT-BASED DISINFECTANTS
Sodium hypochlorite - found in chlorine bleach - and a quarternary ammonium compounds, also called quats, are linked to respiratory harm and other serious health effects.
AIR FRESHENERS
Can contain dozens of undisclosed and often untested chemicals. Open windows, use fans, and try baking soda instead.
CAUSTIC DRAIN CLEANERS
May contain extremely toxic chemicals. Use a drain snake or make a fizzy drain opener with 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda.
What the label doesn't tell us.
It would be easier if all ingredients were required to be listed on the label. But they're not. Check for warnings and ingredients, not marketing claims.
Skip Products Containing
ammonia; EDTA; ethanolamines and alkanolamide surfactants; glycols; glycol ethers and esters; isothiazolinones; optical brighteners; per-and polyfluorinated compounds; or PFAS; petroleum distillates; phosphates and phosphonates; polyacrylates
Skip store-bought cleaners and make your own with:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Fragrance-free liquid soap or dish detergent (not antibacterial)
- Washing soda (wear gloves when using this ingredient_
Tools of the Trade
Any cleaner works better with:
Machine-washable cloth or mop head
Abrasive scrub brush or sponge
Squeegee for showers and windows
