A clean place is a happy place, but traditional cleaning products may contain harsh chemicals that can irritate skin, pollute waterways, and harm the environment. Green cleaners offer a powerful alternative, providing effective cleaning without the potentially harmful side effects.
Green cleaning products avoid harmful ingredients often found in traditional cleaners, such as chlorine and ammonia, both of which can irritate the lungs. Green cleaning products use natural, degradable and safe ingredients that don’t harm the environment.
Unveiling the Power of Green Cleaning Products
Green cleaning refers to the use of cleaning products and methods that are environmentally friendly and eschew harsh chemicals. These products are typically made from natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for both people and the planet. Here’s a closer look at how they work:
Plant-Based Surfactants:
Derived from coconut oil or citrus rinds, plant based surfactants are naturally occurring cleaning agents that can lift dirt and grime just as effectively as their synthetic counterparts.
Essential Oils:
Certain essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil, possess natural disinfectant properties that can tackle bacteria and mould while leaving a pleasant scent.
Mineral-Derived Powders:
Bicarbonate soda, also known as baking soda and washing soda are natural abrasives that offer gentle scrubbing power as well as help deodorise surfaces.
Enzymes:
These biological catalysts break down organic matter such as food spills and grease, leaving surfaces hygienically clean.
The Green Advantage
Choosing green cleaning products offers a multitude of benefits:
Reduced Environmental Impact:
Green cleaners are non-toxic and typically made from renewable sources and biodegradable ingredients, minimising harmful effects on waterways and ecosystems.
Sustainable Packaging:
Many green cleaning brands used recycled or recyclable packaging, further reducing their environmental footprint.
Safer for People and Pets:
Green cleaners are less likely to cause skin irritation or respiratory issues, making them suitable for schools, offices, and other shared spaces.
Making the Switch to Green Cleaning Products
Transitioning to green cleaning is easy. Here are some tips to get started:
Make an Inventory of Cleaning Supplies:
Take stock of the cleaning products purchased by your organisation and identify which traditional cleaners can be safely replaced with green alternatives.
Consider Concentrated Products:
Where possible, choose concentrated green cleaning solutions to reduce packaging waste.
Focus on Prevention:
Regular cleaning with green cleaning products can help prevent grime build- up, reducing the need for deep cleaning with harsh chemicals.
Green cleaning is not only about cleaning products but also having sustainable practices throughout the cleaning process. Here are some additional tips to think about:
Use Microfibre Cloths:
Microfibre cloths are highly absorbent and can clean most surfaces without additional cleaning products. They’re reusable and reduce waste.
Use Less Packaging:
Look for green cleaning products that are available in bulk or in refillable containers to minimise packaging waste. Also consider green cleaning products that are in recycled or recyclable packaging
Support Australian Green Cleaning Brands:
Many Australian companies offer green cleaning products with natural plant-based ingredients. Look for certifications such as Australian Certified Organic or Living Choice to ensure that it’s a truly eco-friendly product.
Explore Other Green Cleaning Options:
There are green options available for every cleaning task, from laundry detergents to bathroom disinfectants and surface cleaners.
Green cleaning is not just a trend; it’s a conscious choice for a healthier home, school, or office and ultimately a cleaner planet. With a little effort, anyone can make green cleaning part of their everyday routine and contribute to a more sustainable future.
