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Q: What are the biggest myths or misconceptions about green cleaning or green cleaning products?
A: The biggest myth is that green cleaning products don't work as well as more-toxic cleaning products. The right ones do. Ask for third-party test results showing efficacy.
Another myth is that if the cleaner smells strong, it is strong - not always true. A corollary to this is that the loudest vacuum cleaner picks up the most dirt, not true. See the Carpet and Rug Institute site for Green Label / Seal of Approval vacuums.
Another myth is that new is always better when in truth some old methods work fine. Using hot water and soap is one of the best lines of defense - mom was right. Wash your hands. Wash your cutting boards, sinks, kitchen counters and stove tops.
From the science perspective, another myth-prone topic is "bacteria". Our bodies and homes are full of bacteria; we need bacteria to digest food and perform other natural functions; the goal of cleaning is not to remove all bacteria (impossible) but to reduce the harmful ones that make you sick by removing dirt, dust, organic matter that feeds germs (e.g., food residue), grease, and grime.
Another myth is that green cleaning is part of a counter-culture and not for the mainstream. Not so. It's for everyone, and increasingly green is attracting a larger market share.
Goldsmith is the author of Green Cleaning for Dummies, published by Wiley and Sons.
