Facts About Non-Toxic Cleaning Products: Benefits, Types, and Uses

Photo credit: Bigstockphoto
Photo credit: Bigstockphoto

Commercial cleaning products depend on harsh chemicals to remove dirt. These chemicals are also used to disinfect and eliminate tough stains. Unfortunately, the same chemicals that wipe an area clean can also harm the health!

Good thing non-toxic cleaning products work just as effectively as commercial cleaning products but without the harsh chemicals. Want to know more about green cleaning products? In today’s post, we are listing down basic types of nontoxic cleaning agents you already have at home and the reasons why you should stick to green cleaning products.

Types of Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

Washing Soda

Washing soda or sodium carbonate is similar to baking soda, but it is more alkaline. This cleaning agent does not release harmful fumes nor damage the area that is being cleaned. Washing soda is safer than most commercially produced cleansers like solvents. However, if you are using washing soda, you still need to wear gloves.

Washing soda can remove dirt, grime, grease, petroleum stains, wax and neutralize odors just like baking soda. Unless you are trying to cut grease or wax, do not use this cleaning product on waxed floors, aluminum or fiberglass surfaces as well.

White Vinegar

Just like washing soda, white vinegar works great as far as cutting grease goes. This cleaning agent can dissolve grease and gummy buildup as well as remove dirt from wood surfaces and eliminate tarnish. In case you ran out of white vinegar, lemon juice makes a great alternative.

Biodegradable Detergent

Liquid detergents are best for cutting grease. Although liquid detergent isn’t 100% “green,” the biodegradable kind do not react with hard water minerals and cause water stains or soap scum. Most biodegradable detergents do not contain synthetic scents or perfumes. If your household uses soft water, we recommend using liquid soap instead.

EPA Recommended Mold and Mildew Killer

EPA recommended anti-mold and mildew products go through extensive and complex tests. Natural soaps, such as those made with essential oils, contain a natural fungicide. They also contain antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. The best cleaning products to eliminate mold and mildew are those formulated with clove, lavender, tea tree, and grapefruit essential oils.

Benefits of Using Green Cleaning Products

Safe Around Children and Pets

Green cleaning products do not contain toxic chemicals that can harm children and pets. You don’t have to keep these cleaning agents in a sealed cabinet under the sink to keep these products away from children.

Does not Affect Air Quality

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, two in five homes are more polluted than outside air. Unlike commercially produced cleaning products, green cleaning products do not generate noxious fumes that are harmful to the health. Because the products are made from natural ingredients, they will not affect the quality of the air you (and the kids!) breathe.

Eco-Friendly

Natural cleaning products are biodegradable. They do not pollute the waters, poison the soil or even emit noxious fumes that pollute the air. On the other hand, chemical-based cleansers are known to cause pollution and cause agricultural problems.

Affordable and Effective

As mentioned above, natural cleaning products aren’t just effective, they are also affordable and accessible. Most of these cleaners are available in your local grocery or supermarket.