As consumers, we have the right to know what's in our cleaning products. After all, we use them on almost everything we touch - our kitchenware, our clothing, our floors. And it only makes sense to avoid ingredients that could have a harmful effect in our home, or on the environment.
The majority of labels on popular cleaning products don't tell us much. Research shows that many household cleaners contain chemicals that are particularly bad. For example, a carcinogen called 2-butoxyethanol is found in carpet, tile, multi-purpose, and oven and barbecue cleaners. And formaldehyde is found in many mold and mildew cleaners — also a known carcinogen.
If chemical names were listed, we could look them up online. ScoreCard.com does this for us, describes health considerations in plain language, and provides links to the science that backs up the data.
People use toxic cleaners because there is a belief that only products with harsh ingredients can clean things properly. This is no longer true. A new generation of eco-conscious manufacturers has developed products that are effective, and kind to the environment.
These eco-friendly cleaners don't compromise our "need for clean".
Green Cleaners at Park Royal Shopping Centre
Bio-Life Shoppers Drug Mart's house brand includes a range of non-toxic and phosphate-free products: Ultra Dish Soap, All-Purpose Surface Cleaner, and Tub & Tile Soap Scum & Stain Remover. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart. www.shoppersdrugmart.ca
Nature Clean Based in Toronto, this company has been making non-toxic household products for almost 50 years in response to a family member's allergic reaction to dish detergents and shampoos. Products include: laundry liquid, glass cleaner, pet stain remover, and barbecue and oven cleaner. All are free of chlorine, ammonia, phosphates, and other known carcinogens and skin irritants. Available at Whole Foods Market. www.naturecleanliving.com
Sapadilla These Vancouver-made products are formulated from premium-grade, plant-based ingredients and are scented with essential oils. Free of phosphates, chlorine, petroleum-based solvents, sodium lauryl sulfate, or sodium lauryl ether sulfate, Sapadilla product include: Countertop Cleanser, Dish Soap and All-Purpose Cleaner. Available at Whole Foods Market. www.sapadilla.com
