Green Earth Cleaning Vs Conventional Cleaning

Top Hazardous Chemicals in the Home 

1. Air Fresheners - Many contain Formaldehyde - highly toxic, known carcinogen; Phenol - skin contact can cause swelling, burning, peeling and hives, can cause cold sweats, convulsions, circulatory collapse, coma and potentially death.
2. Ammonia - Damaging to eyes, respiratory tract and skin.
3. Bleach - Very corrosive, can irritate or bun skin, eyes and respiratory tract. May cause pulmonary edema, vomiting and coma if ingested.
4. Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo - Some contain Percholrethylene a known carcinogen damaging to liver, kidney and nervous system. Ammonium Hydroxide - corrosive and very irritable to eyes, skin and respiratory passages.
5. Dishwasher Detergents - Most contain chlorine in dry form. #1 cause of child poisoning according to the poison control centers. Also contain phosphates which pollute ground water supplies.
6. Drain Cleaner - Most contain lye; caustic, burns skin and eyes, will damage esophagus and stomach if ingested. Hydrochloric acid - corrosive, irritant to eyes and skin, damages kidneys, liver and digestive tract. Trichloroethane - irritant
7. Furniture Polish - Petroleum Distillates - Highly flammable, can cause skin and lung cancer. Phenol - same as air fresheners. Nitrobenzene - easily absorbed via the skin, extremely toxic.
8. Mold and Mildew Cleaners - Sodium hypochlorite - corrosive, irritant/burning to skin and eyes, causes fluid in the lungs and can lead to coma or death. Formaldehyde - Highly toxic, known carcinogen, irritant to eyes, nose, throat, and skin. May cause nausea, headaches, nosebleeds, dizziness, memory loss and shortness of breath.
9. Oven Cleaner - Sodium Hydroxide (lye) - Caustic, strong irritant, burns skin and eyes, inhibits reflexes, will cause severe tissue damage if ingested.
10. Antibacterial Cleaners - May contain Triclosan - absorption via skin can be tied to liver damage.
11. Laundry Products - Besides Bleach, may contain Sodium or Calcium Hypocrite - Highly corrosive, irritates or burns skin, eyes or respiratory tract. Linear alkylate sulfonate absorbed via skin. Known liver damaging agent. Sodium Tripolyphosphate - irritates skin and mucous membranes causes vomiting. Easily absorbed via skin from clothes.
12. Toilet Bowl Cleaners - Hydrochloric Acid - highly corrosive, irritant to skin and eyes. Damages liver and kidneys.
13. Hypochlorite Bleach - Corrosive, irritates/burns eyes, skin and respiratory tract. May cause pulmonary edema, vomiting, or coma if ingested. Contact with other chemicals may cause chlorine fumes which can be potentially fatal.

Other Toxic items around the home 

Pesticides
Flea Powders
Lice Shampoo
Car Wash and Polish
Tar and Bug Remover

Did you know? 

1. Manufacturers of conventional household cleaners are not required by law to disclose the noxious ingredients in their products.
2. Do not be fooled by the words "non-toxic" on labels. The government does not define it so it CAN be used on toxic products.
3. Only a minute fraction of the 75,000+ chemicals registered have been tested for human health concerns. (EPA)
4. The typical American household is the number one violator of chemical waste per capita. (EPA)
5. The average American home has 3-10 gallons of hazardous materials. (Children's Health Environmental Coalition)
6. Children are especially at risk to toxin exposure

• Pound for pound, they breathe more air, drink more water, eat more food.
• At play, they crawl and put things in the mouth (which is true also of our pets)

Natural Cleaning Alternatives

1. Choose an eco-friendly, cleaning service.
2. Do it Yourself with store bought green earth cleaning products.

• Read labels of products and choose those that appear to disclose all ingredients.
• Beware of the words caution, warning, and danger.
• Select products made from plant-based material, eg. Oils of citrus, seed, vegetables as these should be biodegradable.
• Choose pump spray containers over aerosols. These not only can be harmful to ozone, but also produce a finer mist more readily inhaled.

Do it yourself with homemade cleaning agents.

- Baking Soda: All purpose cleaner, effective on glass, coffee pots. Eliminates red-wine stains from carpet. When made into a paste with water shines stainless steel and silver, removes tea stains from cups. For cleaning sinks, counters, toilets and tubs, make a paste with castile and a drop of essential oil (tea tree or lavender). To clear clogged drains, pour 1 cup down the sink followed by 3 cups of boiling water.

1. Boiling Water: Use weekly to flush drains and avoid clogs.
2. Coarse salt: Cleans copper pans and scours cookware. Sprinkle onto fresh spills in the oven then wipe off. To remove rust stains sprinkle on salt then squeeze lemon or lime over them and let sit for several hours and wipe off.
3. Essential oils: Mix lavender or tea tree essential oils with water and use as an anti-bacterial spray for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
4. Grapefruit-seed extract: To kill mold and mildew, add a few drops to water and spray onto affected surfaces.
5. Lemon juice: Acts as a bleaching agent on clothing. Use to remove grease from stove and countertops. Add 2 Tbsp lemon juice to 10 drops of real lemon oil and a few drops jojoba oil to clean and polish wood furniture.
6. Olive Oil: Lubricates and polishes wood furniture. Mix 3 parts olive oil to 1 part vinegar; or 2 parts olive oil with 1 part lemon juice.
7. Tea Tree Oil: Antibacterial properties, kills mold and mildew. Add 50 drops to a bucket of water to clean countertops and tile floors.
8. Toothpaste (plain white): Cleans silver, can remove water stains on wood furniture; dab on, allow to dry then wipe off.
9. White vinegar - Cleans linoleum floors and glass when mixed with water and a small amount of castile. Cuts grease and removes stains; removes soap scum and cleans toilets (you can also add baking soda too). Can be poured down drains weekly for antibacterial cleaning. Add to water in a spray bottle to kill mold and mildew.

Other Considerations:

1. Micro fiber cloths/mops are excellent at attracting dirt and bacteria and should not require any cleaning solutions- just water, so they are eco-friendly and economical.
2. Use of cloths that can be washed and used again as opposed to disposable wipes is better for the environment as it uses fewer resources.
3. Using a HEPA-type filter vacuum traps dust in the vacuum with fewer particles being released back into the air.
4. Prevention: Take off shoes when in the home.

The Advantages of Green Earth Cleaning Products

When it comes to the environment, every choice we make can add up. In the case of green earth cleaning products, you may not know that some commonly purchased household cleaners can have a significant negative effect on the environment. Luckily, "green," or environmentally friendly green earth cleaning products can help us make planet Earth a little bit healthier, while keeping our homes looking fresh and clean.

The concept of a green earth cleaning product is somewhat amorphous. Thus, it may be better to think of green earth cleaning products on a spectrum, where some cleaners are more environmentally friendly than others, rather than dividing them strictly into "green" and "non-green" categories. When placing green cleaners on this sort of spectrum, there are two main factors we should consider.

The Advantages of Green Earth Cleaning Products

The first of these factors is the direct impact on the environment caused by use of a given green earth cleaning product. For example, phosphates, found in many laundry and dishwasher detergents, can cause high levels of algae growth in water systems where it is drained. This algae can suffocate local marine life, thus damaging sensitive ecosystems. Triclosan, an antibacterial compound found in many soaps, is also causing health problems for marine animals, and may have the even worse effect of contributing to antibiotic resistance which may eventually impact humans.

The second factor in determining whether one eco-friendly cleaner is "greener" than others is the impact on the environment of the product's manufacturing process. For example, there is little point to a "green" cleaner sold in a non-recyclable plastic bottle, even if this soap does not contain phosphates or other pollutants. Environmental campaigners warn of so-called "greenwashing," when companies simply slap a "green" label on a product or take out one notorious chemical compound without addressing other environmental damage their products or manufacturing processes may cause. Therefore, it is vital to do your own research on the environmental consequences of any green earth cleaning product you buy, without taking manufacturers' claims solely at face value.

The Advantages of Green Earth Cleaning Products

Finally, aside from the impact on the environment, many green earth cleaning products are much better for your and your family's health than conventional products. Chemicals such as ammonia and sodium hydroxide, commonly found in conventional products, have been known to have negative effects on human health for many years. With truly green earth cleaning products, you can enjoy all the benefits of a clean home while knowing you are protecting your health and the health of planet Earth.

Three Green Earth Cleaning Ways to Mold Removal

Mold removal is now regarded as a necessary process in maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment. However, the conventional means of getting it done is somehow reigned by easy and chemical-based removal process. If to base your judgment to which method to favor on the benefits that can be conjured though, the green means of mold cleaning can be judged as much better.

Basically, green mold removal can produce benefits that are for both humans and the environment. As it does not use chemical ingredients, it can not bring health risks to you and your family and also it can not add up to the pollutants in the environment. This simply implies just how advantageous it can be as an eco-friendly process.

Three Green Earth Cleaning Ways to Mold Removal

To put it in other terms, green removal process makes the cleaning of molds safe while still being effective. In contrast to what others believe, mold cleaning is not made less efficient if you choose the green approach to get it completed. Rather, it makes it more beneficial as there is more than one receiver of the positive effects it can yield.

And because green means to mold cleaning makes you safe even during the process, it enables the method to stay true to the function that it should do. And that is to protect you in all mold removal stages from inspection, to prevention, to the actual remediation and even after that.

With those mentioned effects of green mold cleaning, there is no reason left for you not to try it. But how can you do it? Well, there are actually three ways that you can try for yourself and they are the following:

1. Manual Cleaning of Molds - This is the most laborious of the three and probably the one with the least effects. The solution mostly used to get this done is just a mixture of water and normal detergent. The rest that you will need is strength for scrubbing. Though this may actually work in cleaning the surface, it can not ensure the complete elimination of mold spores.
2. Purchase Commercial Natural Mold Removal Products - As science and technology advances, new products are being introduced to the public. Mold removal products enhanced with natural ingredients are part of the latest development. Though they may cost a little more than the conventional removers, they usually can produce better results in terms of health and even on treating mold damages on surfaces and items.
3. Use Home Ingredients as Green Alternatives - If you are in a tight budget, you can still go green while implementing an effective mold cleaning. There are green alternatives that can cost you so much lesser than the commercially available ones. Examples are vinegar, lemon juice and salt.

Green approach to mold cleaning is so much better to implement than the usual process. It can produce numerous benefits in terms of health and the structure itself. In complete contrast to what many believe, it can still be a mold removal process that is truly effective despite being a softie to the environment.

Why Hire a Green Earth Cleaning Service

Green standards are becoming a focal point for many businesses today - LEED Certification is important for those who want to do business competitively. One of the most overlooked areas of green companies is their cleaning service - if the service is not green, it counts against the company attempting certification. But going with a green earth cleaning service is not just for those who are looking for LEED Certification - it's for everyone looking to improve their image, employee productivity, and customer relations. Below are five reasons why a company should hire a green earth cleaning service.

#1 - Green earth cleaning is budget friendly.

The main reason people don't go with a green earth cleaning company is that they believe it's more expensive than a regular cleaning service. This is simply not the case - and many hospitals, medical facilities, and schools are switching to green cleaners for cost-effective measures. Furthermore, there are hidden costs associated with traditional cleaning services that can put a strain on a company's budget (more on that below).

#2 - A green earth cleaning contractor improves air quality.

The most important factor of switching to green cleaners is that they improve indoor air quality. The improvement is so drastic, in fact, that many companies have noticed a reduction in employee sick time usage. Additionally, harmful indoor air has been shown, nationally, to be responsible for 6% of all job related injuries, resulting in nearly twenty-billion dollars in workers' comp claims annually.

#3 - Green cleaners are safer than traditional green earth cleaning products.

While improvement of air quality is a green cleaners' plus, they are also safer not only for the environment (as they are biodegradable and will not contaminate the water supply), but for visitors, customers, and employees. Again, the ultimate benefit for businesses is a reduction in sick time, and related healthcare costs.

#4 - Green earth cleaning service is a must for LEED Certification.

If a company is looking to become LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certified, they must have a green earth cleaning cleaner as part of their certification requirements. More and more consumers are becoming concerned with the environment, and not being LEED Certified can be a costly loss in revenue.

#5 - Better health for employees, customers, and visitors to the business.

Companies that utilize green cleaners make the air more breathable, and green cleaners do not use Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are known to result in headaches, respiratory problems, and other related illnesses. This isn't just for regular employees, either - it can affect visitors and customers - which is bad for business.

Hiring a green earth cleaning service is the best way to reduce sick time in employees, reduce the potential risk of workers' compensation claims, and attract customers concerned with a greener planet. It is cost-effective over traditional cleaning services, and the additional, long-term savings makes certain that green cleaners cost even less.

Why Choose Non-Toxic Green Earth Cleaning Products?

Today's home is loaded with products designed to make domestic life easier, but the cost of these toxic chemical products can be high. The long-term health concerns for your family and the environment are not worth it. So you may ask yourself, why choose non-toxic green earth cleaning products? Here are some important facts you will want to consider.

The US National Center for Health Statistics states that in the US, 1 in 3 people suffer from allergies, asthma, sinusitis or bronchitis, that may be caused by toxic chemicals we breathe everyday. We can decrease these statistics significantly by reducing toxic chemicals in the home environment.

There are many effective household green earth cleaning products available on the market today, but you may see some scary ingredients if you read the label very closely. The clean smell you've grown to love is really just toxic chemicals such as chlorine, ammonia, and fragrances. Conventional green earth cleaning products can contain some of the most hazardous ingredients we're exposed to on a daily basis, increasing our risk of cancer and other health problems.

Why Choose Non-Toxic Green Earth Cleaning Products?

Breathing in the fumes of some chemicals, including fragrances, are especially detrimental to your health over time. Residual product from these toxic cleaners can also be left on surfaces or in the air after cleaning, adversely affecting your health, your children, pets, your home's air quality, the environment, and water supply. Most people have no clue that this is even happening to them on a daily basis.

Have you ever been gassed out when cleaning your bathroom shower? If you have to open the window or leave the room to get fresh air, that is a sign that your body is telling you, those are toxic chemicals. If you have to use air freshening sprays to make your couch or room smell better, they are just toxic chemicals your lungs are breathing in and will negatively affect your health.

Are you thinking about switching to non-toxic green earth cleaning products, but wondering if they really work? There are many affordable products that work really well and are readily available to you. When you consider the potential harm conventional cleaners can pose on your health and the planet, an alternative, natural product is well worth it.

Here are some tips for finding non-toxic green earth cleaning products that are doing more than making marketing claims:

1. Look for products that have been certified by a credible third-party such as the EPA's Design for the Environment Program or Green Seal.
2. Look for products that have specific claims such as chlorine-free, fragrance free, and phosphate-free.
3. Get your home just as clean for a lot less money, safeguard your personal health, and protect the environment by using natural non-toxic green earth cleaning products.

Growing awareness has motivated parents to keep their family healthy, which has led to a wide variety of non-toxic green earth cleaning products such as laundry detergents, fabric softeners, all-purpose cleaners, bathroom, and kitchen cleaners.

If you are ready to go green and make a healthy change now and are wondering what to do with your old toxic green earth cleaning products? The EPA suggests the following options for disposing of your toxic cleaning products: 

See if your community has a facility that collects household hazardous waste year-round.
Check if there are designated days in your area for collecting solid waste at a central location.
Always read product labels for proper disposal instructions. For more information on disposing household hazardous waste, visit the EPA's website.

Green Earth Cleaning Maids

An eco-conscious society calls for eco-conscious cleaning professionals

We've all met them. You know, those people who are super passionate about preserving and protecting Mother Earth. While not everyone shares the same zest about going green, many people are taking small steps toward being environmentally conscious. From recycling, to conserving water, to using organic products, everyone can play a part in protecting the planet. The same rings true for house cleaning companies. You should ask beforehand if the company's maids implement green earth cleaning techniques, along with use all-natural green earth cleaning products.

Chemical Green Earth Cleaning Products vs. Organic Green Earth Cleaning Products: What's the Difference?

These days, it's crucial to look into the ingredients that make up the green earth cleaning product. Why? Some companies claim their cleaning products are free of chemicals and 100 percent natural; however, chemicals must often exist in the formula in order for it to coagulate properly. Don't just take the cleaning company's word for it; ask exactly which products are used and a rundown of their ingredients. Having peace of mind when your toddler finds his or her way into the cleaning closet is priceless.

Some maids use chemical green earth cleaning products that are petrochemically-based, which means they are toxic and produce an estrogen-like effect in the body. For many women, these products can cause their hormones to become out-of-whack and unbalanced - a very frustrating and uncomfortable problem; consequently, the body can absorb organic cleaning products without suffering negative effects. (Please note: some individuals may be allergic to certain natural ingredients, so check the formulas before using them.)

Green Cleaning Techniques You Can Try at Home

Let's face it: Not everyone has the budget to hire professional maids, even if the service is completely affordable. If you're concerned about the environment, you can apply a few 'green' techniques when cleaning the house. And remember, cleaning the 'green' way can also save money in the long run. (Now that's what we call motivation!)

1. Use only all-natural green earth cleaning products 
2. Conserve water - don't flush toilets too much when cleaning them, and turn the faucet off while your scrubbing the sink/bathtub 
3. Turn off lights when you're finished cleaning the room 
4. Recycle anything you can while you're cleaning up the house Use reusable mops, sponges and other accessories 
5. Place plants throughout the house - they're a natural (and inexpensive) way to clean the air, but just make sure they're non-poisonous

Green Earth Cleaning Tips

Green earth cleaning is safer for the environment and your health. You will prevent harmful chemicals from running off in the water or affecting your surrounding plants and neighborhood critters. You will help keep your indoor air free of harmful pollutants and safe to breathe. Green earth cleaning is also another way to lead a more conscious lifestyle exemplified by today's shift toward sustainable remodeling and organic shopping. Because of the high demand for green earth cleaning products from consumers, many major brands now offer green earth cleaning lines. Here are some of them:

Green Earth Cleaning Tips

Clorox has a line of natural cleaners called GreenWorks. Greenworks cleaners are slightly more affordable than other natural cleaning options. The line includes an all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, bathroom cleaner, and glass and surface cleaner. All the ingredients used to make these cleaners are made from renewable resources, biodegradable, and free of chemicals.

The Seventh Generation. has been around longer and is widely recognized. In addition to the green earth cleaning agents, the natural or recycled cleaning products offered by this line include paper towels and napkins.

Green Earth Cleaning Tips

Green Seal recommendations. If you'd like a more comprehensive list, go to Greenseal, a non-profit company that applies science-based environmental standards testing to household green earth cleaning manufacturers. Green Seal checks ingredients to ensure they don't contain lead, carcinogens, mutagens, or other toxins and they that don't deplete the ozone, contribute to poor air quality, or display a host of other dangers. Green Seal's website offers a list of household cleaners that pass their stringent inspection.

But buying household cleaners isn't the only way to clean green. You can also use homemade cleaning remedies made from vinegar, baking soda, water, and other items in your kitchen. On the exterior of your home, you can use a hose or a pressure washer when needed, utilizes nothing else but water and force. In other areas around the home, simply sweeping the driveway, de-greasing the grill with citrus, or using mild soap and water on your windows may do the trick.