Why Modern Family Homes Must Take Eco-Friendly Cleaning Seriously

Eco-friendly products have revolutionized the standard supermarket aisle. You can find “better” versions of everything, from produce to dairy. 

It is natural to feel skeptical about the importance of such products in a commercialized and consumerist world. However, recent developments indicate that homeowners should think twice before dismissing eco-friendly cleaning.

In our world, plagued by climate change and pollution, more households have vulnerable people. Children and older adults are at higher risk of contracting health conditions due to allergens. At the same time, more powerful cleaning supplies may not be the answer. They may have harsher chemicals with long-term health and environmental repercussions.

Modern homes have a legitimate challenge in their folds. How can one ensure adequate cleaning without damaging oneself or the environment? 

Climate Change Has Made Everything Harder, Including Cleaning

If you love keeping a clean house, you may have noticed that dust seems more aggressive lately. It settles on surfaces minutes after the robotic cleaner has done its sweep.

The United Nations observes that climate change has triggered more sand and dust storms than before. It has changed the Earth’s natural biogeochemical cycles. Other human-induced drivers are also responsible for the dust that seems to be everywhere. Unsustainable land and water management is a huge factor here.

In September 2024, WBIR-TV reported that the Tennessee River in the US had turned brown. Ever since Hurricane Helene ravaged large parts of America, the river has suffered greater turbidity. It has led to an accumulation of mud and dirt. It has become a significant concern since the river is the prime water supply for the residents of Knoxville.

Natural calamities like hurricanes also contribute to algae and mildew growth due to sudden flooding. Over time, mold can become a serious problem for homes and lead to respiratory and skin problems. 

Toxic Chemicals and Particulates in Cleaning Agents

As awareness of disease-causing agents in homes grows, more people prioritize thorough cleaning. Bathroom plumbing or the walls behind furniture can experience mold and mildew with time. After COVID-19, more people have started using potent products to kill disease-causing germs.

However, tackling such concerns with products that harm the environment can set off a vicious cycle. For example, many detergents contain phosphates that can leach into water bodies and trigger algal growth. 

Further, a 2024 Environment International report linked cleaning products and disinfectants to air contaminants and particulate matter. Continued exposure to many disinfectant products can raise the likelihood of asthma and rhinitis. This situation is ironic. The agents that are supposed to tackle disease-causing elements have become the culprits.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Techniques for Healthier Homes

The reality of climate change has made it urgent to explore eco-friendly cleaning alternatives. They can protect both our houses and the world around them. An excellent route is high-pressure water to eradicate dirt, mold, and algae from surfaces. This process does not require any abrasive chemicals.

For example, we discussed how dust storms affect some cities disproportionately. Regions like Knoxville have a double whammy of wildfire smoke, bringing soot and pollen to your home. You can explore power washing services in Knoxville for deep cleaning without exposing kids or pets to harsh ingredients. 

Pressurized water can tackle organic matter growth on different surfaces, including concrete. An expert can vary the pressure for delicate regions, preferring soft washing for painted areas. 

You should also expand the scope of cleaning to cover previously unsuspected spots. For example, the roof’s gutters may clog after a storm. Non-functional gutters can increase the risk of mold. According to PureClean Knoxville, homeowners can consider eco-friendly cleaning solutions for decks and roofs as well. 

Besides pressure washing, you can explore alternatives like steam cleaning. This green technique can eliminate allergens and malodors in your house without any chemicals or abrasive agents.

Selecting Greener Home Cleaning Products

What about cleaning that needs something extra? Say, washing dishes or scrubbing kitchen countertops? Nowadays, you can find hypoallergenic cleaning products that use natural constituents. They are helpful for households with babies whose immune systems are still developing.

As a rule of thumb, pick cleaning products that limit harsh ingredients like glycol ethers and volatile organic compounds. You can also find asthma-safe options. They lower emissions to avoid aggravating sensitive respiratory systems.

While browsing the cleaning products aisle, consumers should watch for greenwashing. Some companies highlight labels like “environment-friendly” without verifiable claims. The US EPA recommends looking for the Safer Choice label to avoid falling for dubious claims. The agency actively identifies products that integrate sustainability in their constituents and packaging.

Another option is to make safer cleaners at home: an approach that lets you control what goes into the solution. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends using homemade cleaning solutions. Baking soda and vinegar are effective for cleaning surfaces without triggering health concerns.

Keeping your home clean has become more urgent in light of more potent natural calamities and powerful microbes. These events connect to the non-sustainable ways we interact with the environment. 

As responsible homeowners, switching to greener cleaning options will benefit the environment. More locally, it will protect you and your family members from invisible agents that slowly erode health.