Cleaning Green: The Benefits of Organic Cleaning

Cleaning our homes and offices is an important part of preventing the spread of germs and maintaining good health. Currently, there are a number of different types of chemicals available for use in cleaning various household and industrial surfaces. While these products may be quite effective, they can also be dramatically dangerous—especially for children or individuals with a weakened immune system. Individuals who are looking for safer options may want to consider the use of green cleaning products. Before switching to different cleaning products or devices, it is important to understand the basics of green cleaning, its benefits and cost, and the dangers associated with the use of non-organic cleaners. In addition, understanding where to purchase organic cleaners is important for individuals who are considering a change in their cleaning habits.

What is Green Cleaning?

Traditionally, green cleaning is defined as the process by which organic products—which are those made with ingredients that are not harmful to humans or the environment—are used to clean the home, office, or other areas. While green cleaning can include the purchase of commercially developed items, it may also include natural food or environmental products that have been found to be effective at cleaning surfaces or removing stains. The commitment to “green cleaning” has dramatically increased in popularity in recent years. In fact, some experts suggest that up to half of the US population use some form of green cleaning technology on a regular basis.

What are the Benefits of Green Cleaning?

The benefits associated with green cleaning are numerous and varied. Specifically, green cleaning products have been found not only to be safe for individuals who use them on a daily basis, but also for the environment in which they are often released. In addition, green cleaning products can often be a cost-effective alternative to more expensive, traditional products. Finally, unlike some other products, green cleaning items are often multi-purpose, and can be used for a number of functions around the home or office.

Toxic Chemical Dangers Associated with Cleaning Agents that aren't Organic

Just as there are a number of benefits associated with the use of organic cleaning agents, there are several risks linked to those which are not organic. For example, a significant amount of clinical research has found that the use of non-organic chemicals can lead to dramatic increases in the instances of cancer in both men and women in the United States. In addition, the use of these products can also increase the rates of allergic reactions and decrease immunity to these antigens. As more research into the field of non-organic cleaning products is done, further health links may be identified.

Cost Effectiveness of Organic Cleaners and Multi-Purpose Usage

In addition to offering decreased rates of toxin exposure, organic cleaners can also be quite cost effective. This is especially true for multi-purpose cleaners, which may serve two functions simultaneously. For example, baking soda can not only be effective at cleaning the inside of a washing machine, but may also increase the effectiveness of laundry detergents. In addition, vinegar and lemon juice can often clean and disinfect dirty surfaces at the same time.

How and Where to Shop for Organic or Green Cleaners

Years ago, finding high-quality commercial cleaners was quite difficult, if not all-out impossible. With today’s trend towards “greener” cleaning techniques, however, the sale of these items in grocery and home improvement stores has increased quite dramatically. Before buying a particular cleaning product that is labeled as “green” or “organic,” consumers should perform some basic investigatory research. In most cases, products that are actually organic—and do not contain any dangerous ingredients—will have the seal of the National Organic Program. Individuals who are unsure of the legitimacy of particular cleaning products may want to contact the company to gain additional information.