Spring into the Green by Leanne Sype

Energy saving light bulbs, electric cars, reusable grocery bags, organic food….it seems “going green” is the way to go these days. Keeping our families and environment safe from dangerous materials and hazardous waste is a lot of work and sometimes a tad expensive, but when it comes to our household cleaning products the Oregon Center for Environmental Health has some quick tips and easy recipes. Here are some safety facts to remember when considering a switch from conventional cleaners to green cleaners:

1) Household cleaners are considered “Hazardous Household Waste” and must be disposed of as such. You CANNOT just throw old cleaners in the garbage can. You can either use up what you have remaining or you can contact Metro Recycling Information (503) 234-3000 or www.oregonmetro.gov/recycling.

2) There are no governmental regulations on which chemicals and how much chemical goes into cleaners. Companies are only required to state labels on their products such as “Poison” (the most toxic) and “Caution” (slightly toxic). Some cleaners may not have a label if they are considered “non-toxic”, but still may be dangerous. Be sure to check the ingredients list for harmful chemicals.

3) Harmful/Dangerous chemicals to look for in your cleaning products: Ammonia, Petroleum Solvents, Thalates (found in fragrances), Chlorine, Phosphates.

4) Whether using a conventional cleaning product or a green cleaner, always clean in a well ventilated area.

Many of the ingredients found in the following recipes can be found in your traditional grocery store, such as white vinegar and baking soda. For other ingredients such as liquid castile soap, soap flakes, washing soda and essential oils, visit Fred Meyer or health food stores. Of course as busy moms, many of us don’t feel like we have time to make all our own cleaners. For some less toxic and more earth friendly ready-made alternatives try some of the brands below. You may be able to find them in the health/natural food section of your grocery store. ~ Bi-O-Kleen ~ Planet ~ Citra-Solv ~ Seventh Generation ~ Earth Friendly Products ~ SoapWorks ~ ECOS OR you can try these options which can be found in the regular cleaning aisle of your grocery store: ~ FantastiK Herbal Mist All Purpose Cleaner ~ Bon Ami cleanser ~ Murphy’s Oil Wood Soap ~ Pure Citrus natural citrus cleaner

Click here for Green Cleaners Recipe you can make at home.