Cleaning our homes has always been a solitary affair. It's just us, our collection of cleaning supplies, and the unimpressed gaze of our pets. We may revel in the satisfaction of a sparkling clean space, but let's be honest – it wouldn't hurt to have a bit of external validation once in a while. Cue the entrance of social media and its obsession with cleaning.The rise of #CleanTok on TikTok has been nothing short of a cleaning revolution. With nearly 47 billion views, it's like the Super Bowl halftime show of cleaning content. If you have a penchant for all things clean, whether it's seeking tips, admiring impressive cleaning skills, or just enjoying the mesmerising sight of a spotless kitchen counter, #CleanTok is your virtual sanctuary.But as with any trend, humanity just can't resist taking it to the extreme. Enter the latest dangerous trend: "product overload." Mixing copious amounts of chemicals together can have disastrous consequences. Michael L. Dourson, executive director of the Toxicology Education Foundation, warns us about the dangers of this chemical concoction. Most household cleaners are either bases (like bleach or oven cleaner) or acids (think toilet bowl cleaners). They're great at battling grease and grime, which both sit in the chemical neutral zone, but do you know what else sits in that neutral zone? Your body. When you start playing chemist, the odds of creating a toxic substance that can break down your skin and/or your lung lining skyrocket. You don’t need to be using products that violate the Geneva Convention to clean your shitter. So how can you clean your home safely, without making mustard gas or a hole in the ozone? Let’s get into it.

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Cleaning products have a dirty secret: the chemicals they contain. With a plethora of chemicals in use, many remain untested for safety, yet their effects are far from unknown. These chemical concoctions can contaminate our precious streams and rivers, stubbornly refusing to degrade into harmless substances. Some may even persist indefinitely, making their way up the food chain, eventually landing on our plates. When these substances are consumed or seep into our skin, they can wreak havoc, causing toxicity, cancer, or even birth defects. Not exactly the kind of sparkle and shine we were promised.But that's not the only environmental concern lurking in our cleaning routines. The excessive use of cleaning products leads to mountains of plastic waste in landfills. Bottles upon bottles of cleaning agents end up as permanent residents, refusing to degrade and burdening our planet with unnecessary plastic. It's time we rethink our cleaning habits and seek alternatives that are kinder to Mother Earth.Speaking of alternatives, let's not forget the single-use cleaning products that have become all too common. Disposable wipes, paper towels, and other one-time-use cleaning items may provide convenience, but they also contribute to the never-ending cycle of waste. Our landfills are drowning in these discarded remnants of cleaning sprees, a stark reminder of our unsustainable choices.So is there another way?? Well obvs, there literally always is. By harnessing the power of nature's own cleaning arsenal, we can bid farewell to harmful chemicals and welcome in a greener, safer way of cleaning. From simple ingredients like baking soda and vinegar to plant-based cleaning products, green cleaning offers a plethora of options to keep our homes sparkling without compromising our well-being or the environment.

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What I’m banging on about here is what the internet hippies refer to as ✨green cleaning✨. The term "green cleaning" can mean different things to different people, but at its core, it's all about keeping ourselves and our environment healthy and toxin-free. We all know that exposure to chemicals and toxins can wreak havoc on our bodies, as well as our precious water, air, and ecosystem.For some eco-warriors, green cleaning means going back to basics and using natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemons to tackle dirt and grime. It's like channeling your inner chemist, but without the dangerous explosions (we're looking at you, baking soda volcano). These natural green cleaners are gentle on surfaces and leave a refreshing scent of lemony freshness in their wake.Others may prefer to venture into the realm of manufactured green cleaning products, seeking out brands that prioritise both cleanliness and the environment. These products proudly sport a list of qualities that make Mother Earth happy. You know, all the good stuff like no phosphates, no chlorine, no artificial fragrances or colours. Plus, they come in biodegradable or recyclable packaging, keeping our landfills a little less crowded.

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Some green cleaning products go above and beyond by incorporating organically grown ingredients using sustainable farming practices, which will keep both your home and your conscience squeaky clean. And if that's not enough, some brands even earn the coveted fair trade certification, ensuring that environmental and labor standards are upheld throughout the production process. You are literally making the world a better place with your eco-friendly sponge.Now, we should note that not all green cleaning products are created equal. Some may still contain additives or chemicals that raise an eyebrow or two. Some of these brands will make up for it by donating a portion of their profits to environmental causes, and it’s up to you to decide whether or not that lives up to your high standards. f you're on a quest to find truly green cleaning products, your detective skills will come in handy. The key? Read the label. But here's the twist: not all labelling programs follow the same playbook, but if you can keep up with Knives Out, you’ll be able to work out what’s what.First, let's talk about the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Design for the Environment (DfE) program in the United States. In the UK, you'll want to keep an eye out for labels that comply with the criteria set by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Some products boast labels like "low VOC" or "no VOC." Now, what's a VOC, you ask? It stands for volatile organic compounds. These sneaky compounds can be found in traditional cleaning products, but low or no VOC means they're keeping it on the down-low. It's like a secret code for cleaner air.

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Let's debunk the myth of "chemical-free cleaning products" that we often encounter in advertisements. The truth is, chemicals are everywhere, even in the simplest of substances (yes, water itself is a chemical). So, it's a tad misleading to claim that any product is entirely devoid of chemicals.Here's the real deal: every cleaning product on the market is composed of chemicals in one way or another. But hold on, don't let that discourage you just yet. While some products proudly parade questionable ingredients like bleach, ammonia, and formaldehyde, there's a vast array of alternatives available that offer a cleaner, more natural approach to cleaning your household.Now, let's dive into the gray areas of the green vs. traditional cleaners debate. First, we have the case of vague labels. Watch out for terms like "environmentally friendly" and "non-toxic." Here's the catch: these terms aren't regulated, which means they can be misleading. Some green products may still have unhealthy ingredients lurking beneath their eco-friendly facade. Next, we tackle the issue of germ-killing power. When it comes to fighting off those pesky germs and stopping the spread of infection, effectiveness is crucial. While some people swear by EPA-registered disinfectants, they may raise an eyebrow at green cleaners not on the list. Trusty favourites may still reign supreme in their cleaning arsenal. It's like choosing between a tried-and-true detective and a rookie investigator.And let's not forget the money factor. Yes, green cleaning products can sometimes cost a bit more than their traditional counterparts. It's like paying extra for a premium detective with a fancy hat and a magnifying glass. But hey, the price of a greener, safer environment is worth it, right?Luckily, there are organisations like the British Cleaning Council and the Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) working hard to shed light on the chemical contents of cleaning agents.

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For the greenest clean possible, you can make cleaning products from stuff that’s probably already cluttering up your cupboards.

Disinfectant: Harness the power of natural ingredients to create a potent disinfectant. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of water, 1 tbsp of liquid castile soap, and 1 tsp of tea tree oil. This homemade solution is a formidable weapon against germs, helping you maintain a clean and healthy environment.

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All-purpose cleaner: Discover the versatility of a simple concoction. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water, creating an effective all-purpose cleaner for a multitude of hard surfaces. From countertops to kitchen appliances, this eco-friendly solution tackles dirt and grime with ease.

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Glass cleaner: Achieve streak-free shine with a homemade glass cleaner. Prepare a spray bottle and combine 1/4 cup of white vinegar, 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol, 2 cups of warm water, and 1 tbsp of cornstarch. Shake vigorously to blend the ingredients, and watch as your windows and glass surfaces regain their crystal-clear brilliance.

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Drain cleaner: Say goodbye to stubborn clogs and hello to a smoothly flowing drain. Start by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda down the problematic drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let this dynamic duo work its magic for approximately 15 minutes, and then flush it away with boiling water. Prepare to witness the revival of your drains' efficiency.

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Multipurpose scrub: Unleash the power of a simple yet effective scrub. Create a paste by mixing water and baking soda to the desired consistency. Armed with a brush, sponge, or scrubber, apply this versatile paste to sinks, stoves, and other hard surfaces, banishing grime and leaving them gleaming.

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Air freshener: Embrace nature's aromatic wonders to invigorate your space. Whether it's dried or fresh flowers or a delightful blend of vanilla, cinnamon, or citrus slices boiled in water, infuse the air with a refreshing scent. For deodorising refrigerators or carpets, sprinkle baking soda generously and let it work its odour-absorbing magic before vacuuming it up.

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Laundry detergent: Transform your laundry routine with a homemade detergent. Combine 1/2 cup of washing soda, 1 cup of soap flakes, and a 1/2 cup of baking soda in a container. For an extra boost, consider adding 1 to 2 tbsp of oxygen bleach. This environmentally friendly blend will keep your clothes clean and fresh, while reducing your reliance on commercial detergents.

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With these DIY cleaning solutions, you can embrace a greener approach to cleaning while achieving remarkable results. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and embrace the power of natural ingredients for a healthier and more sustainable home.

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