4 natural cleaning products you’ll love
We use them with hardly a thought to what they might be doing to our bodies – or our earth.
Experts like those at the Organic Consumers Association would ask you to think twice before hauling out the toxic cleaning products under your sink.
Most people know of the simple dangers: Mixing bleach and ammonia, for instance, can cause toxic fumes that will knock you out if you’re not careful. Health experts say if you insist on using those heavy-duty mildew removers and the like, open the windows, and wear protective gloves.
The most toxic? According to the Washington Toxics Coalition it’s those corrosive drain cleaners, acidic toilet bowl cleaners and oven cleaners. And all those scents added to harsh chemicals to make them more alluring to the consumer can cause anything from allergic reactions to asthma attacks.
And keep in mind that while most of those cleaners break down after they go down the drain, not all do, which threatens wildlife when that water makes its way into our waterways.
The good news? There are more natural cleaners than ever before.
The solution? Natural cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, soap, and Borax will go a long way to making your home safer. And with today’s awareness of the toxicity of chemicals, many companies are offering great organic cleaners. A few we like…
Dish soap
Seventh Generation Natural Dishwasher Detergent Gel,$4.29 (plus Cash Back), Target
Seventh Generation products are phosphate, bleach and ammonia free. If you’re looking for a dish soap that cuts through grease, opt for this natural lemon-scented cleaner. Seventh Generation Natural Dishwasher Detergent Gel,$4.29 (plus .5% Cash Back), target.com
All surface cleaner
Earth Friendly Parsley Plus All Surface Cleaner, $3.19 (plus Cash Back), Vitacost
Put away the bleach and ammonia when cleaning those surfaces and appliances. And if you’re sick of the smell of lemon, here’s a novel scent: Earth Friendly Parsley Plus All Surface Cleaner which will take care of everything from counter tops to fridge shelves. Earth Friendly Parsley Plus All Surface Cleaner, on sale $3.19 (plus 4% Cash Back), vitacost.com
Glass cleaner
CleanPath Natural Spring Glass Cleaner, $3.58 (plus Cash Back), Walmart
No need to use ammonia to clean those windows. If you’re not fond of using pure vinegar, CleanPath Natural Glass Cleaner will get that glass sparkling, with no fumes. CleanPath Natural Spring Glass Cleaner, $3.58 (plus 3% Cash Back), walmart.com
Toilet bowl cleaner
Clorox Green Works Original Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner, $3.49 (plus Cash Back), Walgreens
Put away those harsh toilet bowl cleaners. Though it has the word “Clorox” in the title, the company is on the all-natural bandwagon, and has produced a natural cleaner. Clorox Green Works Orginal Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner, $3.49 (plus 8% Cash Back), walgreens.com
