Would you prefer less-toxic cleaners? Both homemade and natural-based commercial products can be used as alternatives to their sometimes more toxic, often petroleum-based commercial counterparts. While homemade cleaners can be made with familiar, less-toxic ingredients and may be cheaper, they do require some planning and perhaps a bit more elbow grease. Natural-based commercial products, on the other hand, may be more convenient, but keep in mind that “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean nontoxic. For more information on choosing the least toxic commercial cleaners, visit our Making the right choice section.
Are you or members of your household susceptible to allergens and illness? While cleaning helps reduce dust, allergens, and infectious agents that may cause sickness, the chemicals, fragrances, and dyes contained in many commercial cleaning products can themselves be irritating to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Some ingredients may also lead to more chronic illnesses. These are particularly important considerations if your household includes small children or anyone who is elderly or ill. Choosing less-toxic cleaning products can help you minimize these risks.
How many different cleaners do you need? Some cleaners can handle many chores, although certain tasks – such as unclogging a drain or polishing silver – require a more specialized cleaner. You may be able to accomplish more cleaning tasks with fewer products (and have to store fewer potentially toxic products in your home) by using some basic ingredients described in our Making the right choice section.
Do you have what you need to protect yourself? Whether you make them yourself or use commercial cleaners, you should follow some routine protective measures. Be sure to read labels of commercial cleaners to see if respiratory masks, rubber gloves, goggles, or other protective actions are recommended.
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