Feb 15, 2024

Read about the benefits and effectiveness of non-toxic cleaning products, explained by the experts at Strathcona Cleaners. Protect yourself and the environment! 

 

Category: General

Posted by: scadmin

Non-toxic cleaning products are steadily gaining favour due to their ability to protect the health of humans and the planet. Sales of natural household cleaners reached 5,237 million in 2022 and are expected to reach 12,886 million by 2030. Formulated to break down grime and dirt without harmful side effects, these cleaners are composed of natural ingredients and utilize innovative technology.  

What are Non-Toxic Cleaning Products?

Non-toxic cleaning products are made without harmful chemicals (carcinogens, irritants, pollutants. endocrine disruptors, VOCs, ammonia, bleach, chlorine, etc.). They’re created with environmental and human health in mind, using biodegradable ingredients that reduce the amount of toxic substances released into the air and/or waterways. A combination of natural surfactants, enzymatic reactions, and neutral PH levels ensures that these products provide cleaning without causing harm. 

What Harmful Chemicals are in Standard Cleaners?

Many different chemicals found in standard cleaners are harmful to environmental and human health. 

• Carcinogens 

• Endocrine disruptors 

• Flame retardants 

• Pesticides 

• Toxic solvents 

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs),

• Ethoxylated detergents (sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, polyethylene glycol, etc.)

• Preservatives (parabens, isothiazolinone, etc.)

• Phosphates

• Phthalates

• Bleach and/or optical brighteners

• Plastics (polyvinyl alcohol films)

• Synthetic fragrances

• Ammonia

• Chlorine

• Ethylene glycol monobutyl acetate 

• Bleach

• Trisodium phosphate (TSP)

What are the Advantages of Non-Toxic Cleaning Products? 

There are numerous benefits to using non-toxic cleaning products.

• Environmentally Friendly: Non-toxic cleaning products are free from harsh chemicals and often biodegradable, minimizing the toxic substances released into the ecosystem.

• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Non-toxic cleaning products release few or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), creating better indoor air quality and reducing respiratory problems.

• Gentle on Surfaces: The neutral pH of Non-toxic cleaning products ensures they are gentle, preventing corrosion of surfaces and extending the lifespan of belongings and/or equipment.

• Safe for All: Non-toxic cleaning products are safe for humans, wildlife, and pets, making them an appropriate choice for many locations.

• Reduced Water Pollution: Non-toxic cleaning products break down quickly, diminishing the risks of contaminating water supplies and harming marine life.

• Lower Costs: Non-toxic cleaning products and superior cleaning procedures significantly improve employee health, reducing insurance costs and healthcare needs. They also decrease the cost of environmental protection for the community.

• Reduced Complaints: When a building is maintained with non-toxic cleaning products, fewer occupants complain. This is due to reduced allergens (synthetic fragrances, sulfates, ammonia, caustics, formaldehyde, phosphates, chlorine, bleach, dyes, etc.) that cause a variety of symptoms (stuffy nose, throat, mucus, itchy nose, cough, wheezing, etc.).

• Better Public Image: Non-toxic cleaning products create a more favourable image for companies/businesses. 

What is the Science Behind Non-Toxic Cleaning Products?

How do non-toxic cleaning products work? How do they keep our homes and workplaces clean without harming us or the environment? Non-toxic cleaning products:

• Kill germs and/or bacteria: Most cleaners contain disinfectant to help kill germs and bacteria. Whereas traditional cleaners use chemicals (bleach, chlorine, ammonia), non-toxic cleaning products employ less harmful substances (vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, ethanol, citric acid, isopropyl alcohol) for disinfecting. 

• Bind to dirt, germs, and grease: Many natural cleaners contain substances that bind to dirt, grease, and germs (ie: castile soap), allowing debris to be rinsed away.

• Utilize enzymes: Enzymes are an alternative to harsh chemicals and are used in many non-toxic cleaning products (laundry detergent, dish soap, etc.) to break down stains/grime, making them simple to wash away.  

• Employ oxidation-reduction: Many non-toxic cleaning products use oxidation-reduction to break down and remove organic materials and stains. Agents such as hydrogen peroxide react with the material/stain, reducing colour and breaking the substance down. The material/stain then becomes easy to lift. 

• Use the power of acids and bases: Acids (vinegar, lemon juice, citric acid, acidic acid, etc.) react with particles (minerals, rust, etc.), breaking down the particles so they’re easily removed. Bases (baking soda, washing soda, soap, etc.) readily remove grease, oil, and acidic stains.

• Utilize essential oils: Essential oils (eucalyptus, citronella, tea tree, etc.) have natural antibacterial and/or antiviral properties. They are carefully extracted and incorporated into non-toxic cleaners, ensuring effective, eco-friendly cleaning products.

• Incorporate microbial action: Microscopic organisms break down organic matter, reducing and/or eliminating the need for chemicals, promoting a sustainable, eco-conscious method for tackling dirt/stains, and promoting microbial balance in the environment.

• Are often biodegradable: Non-toxic formulations break down naturally, leaving few or no harmful residues, assisting in the preservation of the ecosystem. 

• Employ pH-balance: Many non-toxic products are ph pH-balanced, making them safe for skin, surfaces, and the environment, reducing harm or damage.

Are Non-Toxic Cleaning Products Effective?

Because non-toxic cleaning products are free of harsh chemicals, it sometimes takes more time and product to get the job done. However, these products are just as effective as standard cleaners, free of the risk of exposure to chemicals. 

Non-toxic cleaning products are a great choice for your commercial space. These cleaners offer an alternative to harsh detergents, chemical cleaners, and abrasives. They help improve indoor air quality, are gentle on surfaces, reduce pollution, create a better public image, and preserve employee health. Consider hiring a commercial cleaner who offers green cleaning protocols. 

Looking for a commercial cleaner who utilizes non-toxic cleaning products and implements green cleaning protocols? Contact Strathcona Cleaners and ask about our green cleaning methods. Let us help you keep your space clean and sanitized while protecting the health of your workers and the environment.