If the question was asked, “Is there more pollution in your house or outside of your house?” What would be your answer? Most would answer, “There is more contamination outside because of car pollution, smog and toxic waste.” However, I can guarantee that there is far more pollution in your house than outside; actually 100 times higher than outdoors according to the U.S. EPA. This is because of products used in the residence to freshen air, clean the home and maintain everyday living. Well the practice of average everyday home living is catching up with us and has begun to cause toxic poisoning and acute long term adverse effects on our health. Diseases have become prevalent and have been linked back to products used in the household. Unfortunately, we have not seen the dangers in home products and as a result have exposed ourselves to them in closed quarters.

Suddenly, now many are looking for a solution to prevent health problems and to protect their families from the dangers of household products. This has caused the growing trend of Green cleaning. However, this shouldn’t be seen as simply a trend, it is the key to healthy indoor living. Inside of one’s house there are tons of toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOC). These toxins come from everyday chemical products used in the home, often seen as harmless. VOC is used to increase the performance of chemical filled products; this will result in the annihilation of anything in its path. Though VOC is not as directly harmful as toxic chemicals, it has acute effects on health as well. Cleaning products are responsible for more than 10% of pollution and can impair respiratory, neurological and reproductive functions. Furthermore, can cause burning or irritation of the eyes and skin and if swallowed can cause sudden death.

There are many solutions out there and methods to help families make a smooth “green” or “Eco-friendly” transition to more natural products that keep houses clean and smelling fresh without the toxic effects. The 1st tip you should take heed to would be to do your research on natural products. Do not trust companies who claim their products are natural just because it is the trendy thing to do. Research will provide you a list of “no-no” chemicals and you can do your shopping based around those. Also, while you’re throwing out (better yet recycling) your old cleaning products one might want to look into employing green cleaning services. Not only do green cleaning services & maids provide cleaning tips but they help get things spic and span. There should be more than a few in your area that provide affordable green cleaning with a luxury twist. If you insist, some cleaning services will use the products and methods that you demand. So go ahead and jump into a new “Eco-friendly” lifestyle!