4 kitchen basics can clean the house
By Jennifer Forker - Associated Press
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RSS• Window cleaner: 3 tablespoons vinegar per 1 quart water in a spray bottle.
How to shop for non-toxic cleaning supplies
Some guidelines for shopping for nontoxic household cleaning products; avoid falling victim to "greenwashing" — the marketing of conventional items as eco-friendly. For more information, see "Smart Mama's Green Guide" (Center Street, 2009), by Jennifer Taggart.
• Read ingredient lists. Avoid petroleum-based solvents, chlorine, ammonia and phosphates.
• Avoid products that have "danger," "poison" or "warning" on the label.
• Choose products that list all ingredients.
• Look for products that make specific claims regarding biodegradability, e.g., such as within 14 days.
• If a product is marketed as "natural," read the label more closely (petroleum, too, is "natural").
• Avoid products with synthetic fragrances. If you need a scented product, choose one that uses essential oils.
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