Natural vs Chemical Cleaners

By: Tom | January 23, 2024

On this page:

Are Green Cleaners & Disinfectants a Better Option?

The answer to this question depends most on what your individual perspective and priorities are. If this were strictly a question of what cleans and sanitizes the best, this conversation would not be taking place. Industrial, chemical cleaners do a great job of cleaning everything from countertops to clothing. They are convenient, and readily available in brand names we have known and used for years. Still, lingering questions remain regarding the safety of everyday use in your home or office. Here's some good news... Having both a clean and safe environment may be easier tan you think! If you are one of those people (like me) who wants to do everything possible to keep your family protected from unnecessary exposure to dangerous toxins, read on!

Dangers of Industrial Chemical Cleaners & Disinfectants

The primary concern with industrial cleaners is the amount of toxic VOCs (volatile organic compounds) they release into the air. These products utilize dangerous chemicals like ammonia, chlorine and sodium hypochlorite. The American Lung Association notes that VOCs contribute to a variety of health issues like chronic respiratory problems, allergic reactions and headaches. In an effort to reduce health concerns, green cleaners are produced without these dangerous chemicals. To be clear, studies have also shown even natural cleaners, such as those containing citrus, also release some VOCs. However, the amounts, and thus the dangers, are significantly less than chemical based products. The report also showed name brands like Lysol, Fantastik and Windex had VOC levels nearly 15 times that of natural green cleaners. Long term home or occupational exposure to these dangerous toxins can take a severe toll on your health and well being. Fortunately, Natural cleaners and disinfectants are available and can greatly reduce these risks!

Why Use Natural Cleaners & Disinfectants

In the advent of COVID, we have all become painfully aware of how the spread of germs can impact our health and well being. Use of natural all purpose cleaners allow you to cleanse surface areas without exposure to toxic chemicals. Yet, cleaning alone is not enough to keep you safe. If using a disinfectant is not part of your routine, you are only spreading germs from one surface to another. That said, a popular misconception is that only chemical products are capable of killing germs. For this reason, many homeowners (and businesses) continue to clean and sanitize with dangerous chemicals. This seems like a counterintuitive tactic when you consider the surface and airborne toxins these chemicals eave behind. Keeping yourself and your loved ones free from these dangers is attainable. We'll walk you through everything you need to know...

What Cleaners & Disinfectants Use Natural Ingredients?

When searching for natural cleaners and disinfectants, look beyond the products brand names. There are no laws currently prohibiting manufacturers from using titles like green, natural or organic, even their products are loaded with toxic chemicals. Furthermore, by law, cleaning products do not have to list all ingredients on their labels. There is also no mandate for manufacturers to prove that their products are safe before they are sold to the public. Disinfectants only have to list the active ingredient that kills germs. If you were a chemist, you might find this quite helpful. But, most average shoppers have a hard time distinguishing green from none green ingredients. Your best and safest route is to look for an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification. This accreditation offers assurance that you are purchasing the safest available products.

EPA Safer Choice Program

The Safer Choice Standard, formerly known as DfE's Standard for Safer Products, identifies the requirements products and their ingredients must meet to earn the Safer Choice label. Products with the Safer Choice label help home and business owners in identify products with safer chemical ingredients. This rating also assures that approved products have also attained a high performance level. No one should have to sacrifice safety for a clean and sanitary environment.

Clean First, Then Disinfect Surface Areas

Keeping your home or business clean and sanitary is usually a two step process. Unless you are using a combination cleaner and disinfectant, we recommend you thoroughly clean all surface areas, then disinfect for maximum protection. For your convenience, we've listed the following products meet or exceed EPA safety standards.

Shop Natural Disinfectants

Affiliate Disclosure: Greenerhouseholds.com may receive a small commission on sales of some of the featured products throughout this site. That said, we pride ourselves on honest content and product evaluations.