Embracing Green Cleaning: Tips from Redwood credit union

The environmental impact of everyday choices is influenced by your use of eco-friendly cleaning products for yourself and your home. Switching to natural products not only contributes to a healthier planet, but also promotes a safer and toxin-free living space for you and your loved ones. Many common cleaning products emit hazardous chemicals, known as VOCs.  Scientists found, in a study published in 2023 by the Environmental Working Group, that VOCs have the potential to cause harm to respiratory systems, contribute to an increased cancer risk, and can have serious developmental and reproductive impacts.

It’s understandable how easy it is to forget that, when washed down the drain, these chemicals wind up in waterways and in the ocean, harming wildlife in many of the same ways. And, don’t assume that products labeled as ‘natural’ or even at times ‘organic’ don’t contain harmful chemicals. Click here for a 2024 list from a trusted source.

As for personal care, again, many products we put on our skin, hair and teeth are not safe. Common chemicals found in cosmetics, shampoos and lotions include the ortho-phthalates, known to disrupt hormone levels, BPA, and parabens, listed on labels as methylparaben, propylparaben, isoparaben, or butylparaben, particularly in cosmetics. Here’s a guide to personal care products, again courtesy of the Environmental Working Group. 

As a member-owned cooperative bank, Redwood Credit Union has advocated for the communities they serve; for their physical, mental and financial health. Their ‘Tips’ page has abundant ideas and conversation starters to share with colleagues and loved ones. Click here to visit RCU’s Green Tips that include a recipe for lemon-rosemary scented cleaner using common household ingredients. Combine your own preferred fragrances for a naturally fresh home. Then visit the folks from Redwood Credit Union at Earth Day on April 21st.