The American homeowner uses more than 40 pounds of toxic cleaning products every year. In fact, fifteen percent of all toxic pollutants that enter our creeks and streams come from our homes. Total U.S. sales of household cleaning products were 4.4 billion dollars in 2002. These household products may help us maintain a clean home, however, they are polluting our homes as well as the environment.

Shop for safer products

By being aware of the products that are available or can be made from common household ingredients, we can easily cut back on the use of hazardous chemicals at home. For example, it is more economical to buy a fly swatter rather than insecticides to get rid of pesky insects. From home care to personal care, safer products are becoming more available. To learn about various products, see the personal and household product safety data website! Compare products and learn about how they impact your family's health and the environment, visit the GoodGuide site. Other information about safer consumer choices, including recipes, is available at Natural Resources Defense Council, Care2.com. or the Eco Living Center.

For specific information about products that do not contain dibutyl phthalate, toluene and formaldehyde, visit Natural Solutions-Holistic Beauty & Health or Care2.com.

Dispose safely

Unused or empty containers of most commercial cleaning products need to be disposed as hazardous waste. See your disposal options for Household Hazardous Waste. Why buy large quantities of hazardous cleaning products? You may find unused/unwanted cleaning products, garden chemicals or pool treatment chemicals among items available that were collected at events at the Recycle Shopping locker open following the drop-off event. Shop for items at no charge from 1:30 to 2 p.m.

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