Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Environmentally Safe Cleaning Options

We all know about various things we can use for cleaning around the house that are completely natural and safe for the environment. Things like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be used on many surfaces and work great. But sometimes we might need just a bit more, and it is good to know there are products available that perform well but are safe for the environment. 

Murphy’s Oil Soap has been around for many years and is one of the first environmentally friendly cleaning products. The coconut and plant-based ingredients are gentle, with no unnecessary chemicals. Even the container is 25-75% post-consumer recycled. It works as an all-purpose cleaner on any washable surface. It is especially good for any sealed wood such as woodwork, floors, and cabinets. Murphy’s is also great for washing walls and paneling. It will freshen a room with its wonderful scent. 

OxiClean is another all-purpose cleaner and laundry additive that contains no chlorine or harsh chemicals. It works when water activates the oxygen to loosen and wash away stains. OxiClean is safe to use even outside around landscapes for outdoor furniture and decks. It is great when added to laundry loads or for soaking curtains or clothing to bring back whiteness. Check out www.oxiclean.com 

CLR is another product that has been around for many years and is also environmentally friendly. CLR stands for calcium, lime, and rust, and it does work to remove these stains. It is especially good on bathroom and kitchen surfaces and is also septic safe. CLR is an award-winning product from the EPA. The EPA has a program called Safer Choice. It awards a company’s products that are an effective alternative to polluting products. They have extensive lists of thousands of cleaning products that are safe. Go to www.epa.gov/saferchoice. 

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO