Before you break out any all-purpose cleaner, see if water and a good measure of elbow grease can’t clean things up. Remember, vinegar makes a great general-purpose cleaner. For tougher jobs, try baking soda. It’s a good idea to try one of these greenest solutions before going with something stronger, even it it is a truly natural green cleaner.

It can be tough to find specific ingredient information on green cleaning products (check out the cleaner comparison page) because manufacturers are not required by law to list every ingredient. When green cleaning products lack specific ingredient information, look for phrases that indicate what it DOES NOT contain. For example, “No petrochemicals”, “No sodium lauryl or laureth sulfate”, “No ammonia or chlorine”. (more on chemicals to avoid)

Fragrance- and Dye- Free

Not only are synthetic fragrances annoying and can be overpowering to those with sensitive senses of smell or allergies, but pretty much all dyes and fragrances are derived from petroleum.

Independent Certification

Check out the certifications listed on a natural cleaning product. There are many independent organizations that analyze product ingredients and certify the safety of chemical ingredients.

Shopping Tips

• Be wary of words like “green”, “organic”, “eco-friendly”, “non-toxic”, etc. The term “biodegradable” is commonly used, though is meaningless when you consider that everything breaks down eventually.
• Educate yourself on what you don’t want in a general-purpose cleaner (environmental impact).
• Choose products that come in post-consumer recycled containers and packaging.
• Choose green cleaning products that are Fair Trade.
• Look for cleaners that are available in bulk packages, concentrates or large containers (the links on the product comparison page point to the best bulk deals on Amazon).