When it comes to keeping things germ-free, some people need convincing that eco friendly cleaning products are up to the job. But they really are, and there are a host of reasons to use eco cleaners, too.
Regular cleaning fluids can be extremely harmful to the natural world, so if you’re aiming to run an eco friendly home, you need to ban the chemicals.
Do eco friendly cleaning products kill germs? Yes they do, effectively and safely, without using chemicals. This much is evident across the world every day as more and more people and companies turn away from shop-bought toxic mixes.
Why use eco friendly household cleaners?
- Regular household cleaners contain chemicals, which can contribute to air pollution, reduce the quality of water and be toxic to animals.
- Scientists believe conventional cleaning products are a key source of indoor pollution and therefore one of the greatest threats to our health.
- Chemical household cleaners contaminate waterways when poured down drains or rinsed from cloths and sponges, endangering aquatic life.
- Warnings on most household cleaners spell out the dangers, using words such as ‘hazardous’, ‘corrosive’ and ‘irritant’.
- Parabens, Triclosan and Phthalates are among the harmful components. Many have been linked with health problems and environmental damage. Some types have already been banned.
- Phosphorus, Nitrogen and Ammonia are chemicals commonly used in cleaning products, and are known as Volatile Organic Compounds. They are also considered to be dangerous air and water pollutants when large quantities gather.
- Some cleaning products contain petrochemicals, which are products of the oil industry, which contributes significantly to the climate crisis.
- Household cleaners are often contained in plastic packaging, which is not always recycled and can end up in waterways or landfill.
How do I know if a product is eco friendly?
- Thankfully, there now exists a wide choice of household cleaners that are kinder to the health of humans and the environment.
- Look for proof that the product is plant-based or organic, meaning that it does not contain any of the harmful artificial chemicals.
- Avoid products containing palm oil, which is linked to devastating deforestation, or search for brands that source palm oil sustainably.
- Check for eco-friendly, biodegradable, reusable, refillable or recycled / recyclable packaging.
- Look for a label confirming that the manufacturer does not support testing products on animals. Although tests of finished products on animals is banned in some regions, many companies still test individual ingredients on animals.
