Safe (and Green) Cleaning Tips for Your Home and Office

The Environmental Working Group released a list of safe cleaning tips for your home. They are easy to follow, and will certainly protect your family's health.

1. Less is More
Dilute your cleaning supplies according to instructions and use only what’s
needed to get the job done.
2. Open the Window
Clean with windows and doors open so you don’t trap air pollution inside your
home.
3. Use Gloves and Other Precautions
Cleaning chemicals may harm or penetrate skin and eyes – check warning
labels.
4. Keep Kids Away
Children are more vulnerable to toxic chemicals. If they like to help, let them
clean with soap and water, not toxic cleaners.
5. Avoid “Antibacterial”
If your family is generally healthy, there’s no need to use potentially toxic “antibacterial”
products, according to the American Medical Association. Wash your
hands with plain soap and water.
6. Never Mix Bleach with Ammonia, Vinegar, or Other Acids
These combinations can produce deadly gases.
7. Don’t Be Fooled by Labels – Buy Certified Green Products
Label claims aren’t always true. Cleaning supplies certified by Green Seal or
EcoLogo meet green standards.
8. Try Natural Alternatives
Experiment with non-toxic options like vinegar and baking soda.
9. Take Care with Pine and Citrus Oil Cleaners
Avoid using these cleaners especially on smoggy days, when the ingredients
can react with ozone to produce cancer-causing formaldehyde.
10. Skip the Biggest Hazards
Avoid air fresheners, use a baking soda and water paste to clean the oven and
tackle toilet stains, and use a mechanical snake to unclog the drain.

Source: ewg.org