The Benefits & Criteria of Green Cleaning Products

Over the years, “green cleaning” products and techniques have become increasingly popular with eco-conscious homeowners. Unfortunately, it can often be difficult to tell when green cleaning products benefit your home and the environment, as the labeling standards can be inconsistent across different brands. In fact, some green cleaning products may not bring the desired benefits at all – so it’s important to know how to assess your eco-friendly products for quality.

Pending Revisions to the SaferChoice® Criteria

The EPA is constantly seeking to improve cleaning products that are safer and more sustainable. In 2023, revisions to the SaferChoice® standards were proposed to keep up with scientific and technological innovations. These updates focus on protecting health, promoting sustainability, and ensuring the safety of humans and pets.

Here’s a simplified summary of their latest proposal, highlighting aspects that pertain to our cleaning services:

• Clearer Regulations: In recent years, new scientific methods have been used to review the safety of chemicals. As a result, the EPA plans to clarify how it defines which product classes are safe and categorizes those that pose health and environmental risks.
• Energy Efficiency: New, optional criteria are in the works to encourage companies to reduce water use and carbon-based energy consumption.
• Wipe Product Restrictions: Updated guideline recommendations aim to minimize damage to wastewater treatment systems caused by wipe products.
• Sustainable Packaging: The EPA is tightening rules on sustainable packaging due to consumer demand and advances in packaging technology.
• New Certifications for Cleaning Services: Companies that use SaferChoice® or DfE-certified products will get a new certification to protect workers who handle cleaning products all day and the people in the spaces they clean.

At Merry Maids®, we’re excited to incorporate any new, eco-friendly advancements into our cleaning regimen – reinforcing our ongoing commitment to “going green.”

The Benefits of SaferChoice® Approved Cleaning

As a cleaning company committed to using only SaferChoice® approved products, we adhere to all current criteria.

Some of the benefits of our green cleaning services and products include:

• Reduced levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs): According to the EPA, volatile organic compounds or VOCs are gases that can be emitted from certain cleaning products, such as disinfectants, aerosol sprays, and solvents. Our green cleaning products have lower levels of these chemicals and may decrease the risk of irritation.
• Safe for use around pets and children: Kids and household pets are particularly vulnerable to the chemicals used in certain cleaning products. While most standard cleaning products are safe when used according to the labels, using SaferChoice® approved products can help reduce the odds of chemical exposure.
• Improved indoor air quality: Cleaning improves your air quality by removing dirt particles and pet dander from your home’s surfaces – but some traditional cleaning products can also introduce new allergens and synthetic fragrances into the air. Because our green cleaning products mostly comprise natural ingredients, you can breathe easily knowing that your air quality has started to improve.

How to Pick the Right Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

While our cleaning experts would be happy to help you explore green cleaning options with our team, selecting eco-friendly products for your daily and weekly household cleaning routines is equally important. Whether you prefer to try DIY cleaning products already in your home or buy something off the shelf, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.

Pay Attention to Safe Storage and Usage Instructions

The Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA) governs labeling requirements for cleaning products stored in a home or household structure. Compliance with FHSA labeling regulations is essential for products used outside of industrial settings. This includes cleaners with corrosive, flammable, toxic, and explosive chemicals and sensitizers and irritants. Most warnings have handling instructions on avoiding decomposition, improper application, and improper storage that can cause injury or illness.

Handle Cleaning Products Responsibly

Even green cleaning products can have downsides if significant quantities are swallowed, inhaled, or ingested. Keep all cleaning products, including those that are SaferChoice® approved and eco-friendly, out of reach from young children and pets.

Be Aware of Common Labeling Tricks

Many common cleaning products have recently been re-branded as “green” or “environmentally friendly,” even though the core formula hasn’t changed. This is because there are no clear regulations on using these terms. Luckily, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) compiled data on over 2,500 products, making it easier for consumers to tell when a product is truly green.

Carefully Research DIY Combinations

You don’t have to buy all new cleaning products to become more eco-conscious: There are plenty of natural cleaners, such as vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, and other common household substances. However, it’s important to be diligent about researching these combinations, as they are still chemicals and can have dangerous reactions when mixed with other substances.

A Cleaning Company That Cares About Your Safety

Do you want to explore our green cleaning options for your home? Merry Maids® can help you create a customized cleaning plan. Our cleaning supplies are biodegradable and graded for toxicity to water habitats and ecology, earning the SaferChoice® seal of approval. By choosing our green cleaning services, you’ll reap the benefits of tools, techniques, and resources designed for your well-being.