Suggestions for Safer Greener Non-Toxic Spring

Where Toxins are found:

Conventional and antibacterial dish detergents and hand soaps, disinfectant and all-purpose cleaners; laundry detergents, fabric softeners, stain removers.

Health Threats:

Most are made from petroleum, a non renewable resource; fragrances may cause irritation and trigger allergic reactions;some detergents contain alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), suspected hormone disruptors. Antibacterial cleansers promote growth of resistant bacteria.

Solutions:

Ecover, Naturally Yours, Seventh Generation laundry and dishwashing detergent; thorough hand-washing with plain soap and warm water; Earth Power Herbal Disinfectant; AFM SafeChoice Super Clean; Vermont soap works or BioShield Cleaner. To soften fabric, add 1/4 cup of vinegar or baking soda to wash cycle; for stain removal, try soaking in water mixed with borax, lemon juice, or white vinegar.