Do you have the resolution to clean more with eco-friendly products?

Non-toxic cleaning products are safer for the environment, contain fewer allergens, gentler on the skin, and are more often cruelty-free. The side effects on health and environmental issues from chemical cleaners have led to an increase in low-toxic beauty and cleaning supplies.

The EWG (Environment Working Group) did an investigation of over 2,000 cleaning products and found that many substances could be linked to health problems, such as:

• Some cleaners can cause chemical burns and poisonings as well as less severe irritations and allergies. 
• Some products contain preservatives that release low levels of formaldehyde.
• Chemicals can irritate those with asthma; cleaning product fumes may trigger attacks in persons previously diagnosed with asthma.
• Fragrance mixtures can cause allergic reactions.

It is important always to research the products you are buying. To help you explore safer cleaning methods, we put together a list of five tips to help green your cleaning routine.

1. Start with the basics
   Add these less toxic alternatives to your cleaning routine. With a little bit of research, you can make your cleaning products. Here is what you need for a natural cleaning kit:
   Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) - gritty scrubber, also reacts with acids like lemon and vinegar
   Borax - disinfects, whitens and deodorizes
   White vinegar - disinfects and loosens dirt
   Lemon juice - disinfects, cuts through grease
   Olive oil - picks up dirt, polishes wood
   Castile soap - all-purpose foaming cleaner
   Washing soda (sodium carbonate) - an acidic cleaner, stain remover and laundry supplement
   
   
2. Commercial green cleaning products
   Sometimes you need a little less elbow grease to get the job done. Many brands have revamped their cleaning products to have less harmful chemicals. Simple Green, GreenWorks and Meyers are a few to choose from for all your cleaning needs.
   
   
3. Wood surface cleaning
   There are combinations of olive oil and vinegar to clean wood tables and floors. Depending on the type of wood you are cleaning, you will have to modify the ratios.
   
   
4. Green bathroom cleaning tips
   Baking soda and vinegar make an excellent alternative toilet scrub. Borax is a top choice for cleaning the tub and being used as a tile scrubber.
   
   
5. Avoid air fresheners
   Crack a window, buy some houseplants (NASA has studied some to purify the air). Heavily fragranced fresheners contain phthalates and chemicals that can affect those with allergies and asthma.

If you are ready to fill your home with natural ingredients or are sensitive to harsh chemicals, look at this guide to make your cleaning recipes.