Did you know that traditional cleaning products used to clean your home or business could be doing more harm than good? Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can cause environmental harm and linger in the air, contributing to long-term health issues for your staff and clients.
Green cleaning offers a smarter solution using natural, safe ingredients that deliver effective results without risks. This article explores the common questions asked by business owners about green cleaning and highlights the many benefits it offers for both your business and the environment.
Traditional Cleaning
Over the years, many people have continued to resort to well-known, big-name cleaning products for their cleaning needs. These established brands often promote their products as effective solutions to achieve a clean environment. However, this assumption overlooks the potential downsides, such as the harsh chemicals and the negative impact on the environment.
Traditional Cleaning Products & Processes
When traditional cleaning products are used for cleaning indoor spaces, some can release dangerous chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals are extremely toxic when inhaled and can lead to health issues like respiratory issues and more. Cleaning supplies and household products containing VOCs and other toxic substances can include:
- Aerosol spray products
- Chlorine bleach
- Air fresheners
- Furniture and floor polish
- Oven cleaners
Not only can traditional cleaning products have negative impacts on human health, but they can also enter waterways, contributing to environmental contamination.
What is Green Cleaning?
Many business owners are hesitant to adopt green cleaning practices due to common misconceptions such as believing that eco-friendly products are less effective or more expensive. Unlike traditional cleaning products, which often contain harsh chemicals and synthetic materials, green cleaning products use non-toxic, biodegradable, and natural ingredients.
Green Cleaning Ingredients & Processes
This comprehensive approach is designed to be safe for people, pets, and the environment, reducing the risk of chemical exposure and indoor air pollution. Green cleaning products promote long-term ecological balance without impacting natural habitats using products such as biodegradable cleaners, plant-based detergents, and chemical-free agents.
Utilizing green cleaning products and methods aims to provide effective cleaning solutions while reducing health risks and environmental impact. The ingredients in these eco-friendly substances or products that contain:
- No synthetic fragrances
- No harsh chemicals or solvents
- No volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- No chlorine
Additionally, green cleaning services, such as those offered by Stratus Building Solutions, often include eco-friendly technology in addition to the products. Technology such as microfiber cloths and mops reduce the amount of waste and avoids cross-contamination. HEPA vacuums include microfilters that remove mold, hair, dust, pollen, and most bacteria particles down to 0.1 microns. Green cleaning products and methods are effective in cleaning properties while maintaining a healthy environment for employees and visitors.
Are Green Cleaning Products Effective?
Green cleaning is highly effective when conducted correctly. Modern green cleaning products and methods are designed to provide a high standard of cleanliness without relying on harsh chemicals. These advanced formulas often use powerful eco-friendly ingredients to remove dirt, grime, dust, and bacteria effectively, if not better than traditional products.
Along with the eco-friendly ingredients, green cleaning methods prioritize using the proper amount of cleaning product, dilution control systems to minimize waste, and the prevention of cross-contamination to maintain a healthy environment for employees and customers.
How Do I Know What is a Green Cleaning Product?
Identifying a green cleaning product involves looking for several key factors that confirm its eco-friendly and safe properties. It is important to fully review the ingredients and labels to ensure there are no hidden toxic chemicals. If you are unsure of what an ingredient is, it is suggested to look it up online. Here are some of the best ways to check for eco-friendly cleaning products.
Look for Green Certifications and Labels
When looking for green cleaning products, one of the best ways to determine if it is eco-friendly is by identifying green certifications and labels. The most reputable certifications and labels include the EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, EcoLogo, and USDA Organic. These labels and certifications inform consumers that the product has been tested for safety and efficiency, while being free of toxic ingredients.
It is important to note that there are companies that participate in greenwashing, which are making misleading statements about their products being beneficial for the environment. When determining which products are eco-friendly, find the labels and certifications from reputable organizations.
Check the Ingredients
While identifying labels or certifications are important, individuals should also review the ingredients. Many eco-friendly products include ingredients that are derived from fruits, vegetables, and other natural sources.
How Do I Switch to Green Cleaning Products?
Making the decision to switch your business over to green cleaning involves a strategic approach to adopting eco-friendly practices and products. Here are the several steps business owners should take into consideration when making this adjustment:
Assess the Current Cleaning Practices
Review the cleaning products and methods that are currently being used in the facility. By addressing the products’ ingredients, it can be determined which products have harmful chemicals and the impact they can have on the environment and health of individuals. Assessing the current practices also helps with identifying where improvements can be made throughout the process.
Research Green Cleaning Products
There is an ever-growing market for green cleaning products that includes a wide range of naturally derived ingredients. Researching the products available allows business owners to find effective ingredients for various areas of the facility. Look for products that have certifications or labels by organizations such as Green Seal, EcoLogo, or the EPA’s Safer Choice Program.
Update Cleaning Supplies and Equipment
Purchase green cleaning products and methods that align with your business’s sustainability goals. Consider methods and items that can reduce waste and are effective.
Team up with a Green Cleaning Company
Partnering with a green cleaning company, such as Stratus Building Solutions, offers significant benefits for your business, employees, and the environment. Professional green cleaning businesses prioritize effective and sustainable cleaning services that are not harmful.
Stratus Building Solutions uses the combination of ecofriendly products and methods to ensure the health and safety of others. We have developed our very own Stratus Green Clean products that are Green Seal Certified and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified.
When partnering with Stratus as your green cleaning company, you can expect high quality green commercial cleaning services that align with your business’s environmental and health conscious goals.
