Some people say, “You are where you live.” In a way, it’s true. A clean space helps clear your mind and puts you in a better disposition, not to mention the variety of health benefits you can score when you maintain a clean environment. Choosing to clean your space with a set of sustainable cleaning tools makes for a safer and greener condo. When canvassing through the hundreds of cleaning materials in the market, it’s important to do your research to know if the products you’ll be purchasing are consciously made. Look for the following attributes the next time you purchase your monthly cleaning supply:
1 | Brand Reputation
First and foremost, get to know the brand that produced your product of choice. Consider if they ensure that their products are consciously made, and if they consistently uphold sustainable practices. Is the company an advocate for sustainable operations, production or manufacturing, and distribution? What about how it takes care of its employees and stakeholders? If the brand supports sustainability, it’s highly likely that its products are made consciously. One of the brands that believe in and push for a sustainable practice is Seventh Generation that has been an advocate of plant-based ingredients and recycled materials for its home cleaning products.
2 | Renewable Materials
If you’re not sure of the company’s stand, look at the ingredients. What does the product contain? Choose to purchase eco-friendly or plant-based products as they are derived from naturally occurring and non-toxic ingredients, like d-limonene from citrus, lauramine oxide, and TEA lauryl sulfate. Soy-based home cleaning products are also a safe and green alternative.
These renewable agricultural, marine, and forestry materials keep you and your home toxic-free while also caring for the environment. Check for any certifications on the packaging to ensure you’re using a green product. For instance, with Seventh Generation, a USDA Certified Biobased Product label can be seen on the packaging, with 95% and higher rating.
3 | Cruelty-Free
Your cleaning products should be safe for everyone: humans, the environment, and pets. So look for the Leaping Bunny and PETA logos on your cleaning products. These two have been the cruelty-free standard when it comes to product development and testing on animals and including animal ingredients in any product. You can also search their database of cruelty-free companies before you go to the grocery store so it’s easier to pick a product.
4 | Hypoallergenic
The term “hypoallergenic” actually means that it reduces the chances of allergic reactions. While there is no standard when it comes to a product being hypoallergenic, brands that claim their products are hypoallergenic simply mean that they carefully formulated their products in order for it to be safe for anyone, especially to those with sensitive skin like babies.
5 | Green Packaging
No, not necessarily in green bottles or any other forms of packaging. We mean packaging that is made from sustainable materials. One example is Seventh Generation that uses 100% post-consumer recycled plastic to contain its bio-based products. Now that’s green packaging.
