How to shop for nontoxic 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.

— Buy in bulk or concentrated form (there’s no reason to pay for added water).

— Choose products that have the least packaging.

— Try castile soap, a mild, liquid, vegetable-based soap traditionally made from olive oil. (Taggart likes the Dr. Bronner’s brand.)

Some brands that make nontoxic cleaning products:

Seventh Generation

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Planet

Ecover

Method

Caldrea

Bright Green

ecostore USA

Clorox (Green Works)