Why Should You Clean "Green"?
By Ashley Miers
Many traditional cleaning products are toxic not only to the environment, but also to our bodies.
Choosing green and sustainable cleaning products can lessen water and air pollution, slow climate change, and reduce ozone depletion. Going a step further, products that utilize zero waste packaging practices reduce single use plastic consumption and keep toxic (and non-biodegradable) materials out of landfills. Click here to check out some of my favorite green and sustainable products, like CLARYTI pictured above.
In terms of how cleaning products impact our bodies, many conventional products contain hazardous materials that include: carcinogens (cancer causing), neurotoxins (brain-damaging), mutagens (DNA-damaging), teratogens (causing birth defects), and endocrine disruptors (hormone/reproductive system-damaging). Two primary sources of concern that are found in many conventional cleaning and personal care products are pthalates and parabens (both endocrine disruptors). Since the skin is the largest organ of the body and can absorb up to 60-70% of some substances, it makes sense to be mindful of exposure.
Green cleaning products protect your health, make your home safer, help the environment, and can help you save money (for instance - using one all-purpose green cleaner for multiple uses instead of buying multiple products).
I recommend searching for zero waste/green cleaning product “refill stations” in your area and buying in bulk. Some of these amazing businesses even deliver to your door.
Two LA-based examples are:
I hope this information will inspire you to take action. We are all capable of creating an impact, and our choices do matter.