by Mike Ohrberg
Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley is your local resource for earth-friendly home improvement ideas. This month, we will focus on “green” home cleaning. Most homeowners probably don’t realize the damage that some home cleaners can do to the environment and to their health. Let’s take a look at some of the major culprits:
Laundry Detergent: Many detergents are made from petrochemicals and may contain bleaches, synthetic whiteners and artificial fragrances, all of which can cause skin irritations and breathing problems.
Fabric Softener: The artificial fragrances in fabric softeners can cause skin irritation, stuffy nose, breathing problems and watery eyes.
Ammonia: The fumes from ammonia are extremely irritating to lungs and eyes and can cause skin rash and burns.
Bleach & Dishwashing Detergent: The chlorine used in bleach and in many dishwashing detergents can cause headaches and breathing difficulties.
Manufacturers of these hazardous products are not required to list exact ingredients on the label. So, what can you do to create your own chemical-free cleaning kit with non-toxic, ecologically safe products? Here are just a few ideas:
- Select durable tools such as cotton cloths, rather than paper towels or disposable wipes and mops.
- Select products which are biodegradable, effective, packaged with recyclable material, not tested on animals and do not contain harmful ingredients such as petrochemicals.
- Choose reputable eco-friendly brands.
Attend the “Keeping Your Home Chemical Free” seminar, hosted by Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley, on June 13 at the Holistic Chamber of Commerce. Participants will view product demonstrations and create their own cleaning kit with chemical free and low cost natural ingredients. Reservations are required. Seminar costs $10 per person.
Visit www.Habitat4InlandValley.org or call (951) 296-3362 for more information.
Mike Ohrberg is the Director of Restores. Shop or donate your unwanted household items to the Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley ReStores. The Temecula ReStore is located at 27479 Enterprise Circle West. The Lake Elsinore ReStore is located at 570 Central Avenue, Suite I. Habitat for Humanity will pick up your donations, if needed. For more information, visit www.habitat4inlandvalley.org.