Benefits of Green Cleaning

December 3, 2013

Green cleaning is an increasingly popular trend. As we learn more cost-effective ways to implement green cleaning, it is becoming the go-to method for both commercial and residential buildings. Not only does green cleaning limit the impact we have on our natural surroundings, but it also reduces many harmful effects associated with traditional cleaning chemicals. A wealth of research highlights the fact that cleaning chemicals can have a negative impact on human health including eye, skin, and respiratory irritation; and traditional chemical cleaning products are also associated with harmful effects on the environment. From healthier homes and offices to cost and understanding of the products, there are many benefits of green cleaning.

Healthier Homes and Offices

Since green cleaning products do not contain harsh chemicals, they are safer for family members, pets, and colleagues. With green cleaning the risk of absorbing chemicals into the skin or breathing them into the lungs is eliminated. Research has shown that even using cleaning sprays just once a week can increase your risk of asthma. Logic would have it that green cleaning reduces your risk of a range of chronic illnesses that affect the respiratory system.

Respect for the Environment

Cleaning chemicals get into your skin and lungs, but they also have a very serious impact on our natural environment. Harmful chemicals pollute waterways and even the air. In fact, some cleaning chemicals are associated with the depletion of the ozone layer and even global climate change. Moreover, green cleaning products are often available in recyclable packaging, further limiting our impact on the environment.

Safety

Strong cleaning products pose a risk for chemical burns to a person’s skin or eyes; alternatively, non-corrosive green cleaners must adhere to strict standards when it comes to inhaled toxins, combustion, and skin absorption.

Improved Air

Many chemical cleaners have a strong smell which can be extremely offensive. On the other hand, green cleaning products have a pleasant, non-noxious odor that won’t compromise air quality.

Cost

Some of the most effective green cleaning materials are common household items. Vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice cost just a fraction of chemical cleaning products, but they’re very effective for cleaning. In fact, even commercially developed green cleaning products cost the same or less than traditional cleaners offering homeowners and business owners alike the opportunity to switch to green cleaning and save money. Plus, green cleaning has been shown to reduce the chance that employees will take sick days, so business owners can even save money on lost work time.

Transparency

Perhaps one of the most important benefits of green cleaning is your knowledge of the ingredients found in your cleaning products. While there are no government regulations that require the ingredients in commercial cleaners, green cleaners can be made at home so you know exactly what ingredients you’re using to clean.