Here at Stork Exchange, we are big fans of leading by example. That’s why we strive to teach our littles the importance of green, eco-friendly practices. From shopping secondhand and extending the life of essential items to composting, recycling, and being conscious of energy consumption, there are so many practical ways to teach our children about the importance of sustainable living. 

Yup, even our cleaning habits can be made more sustainable too! You may be wondering, ‘so what’s the big deal with eco-friendly cleaning products?’ or what does ‘green clean’ really mean? Well when it comes to protecting overall health, our precious planet is a great place to start. From the seemingly harmless sodium lauryl sulfate (umm, it’s actually highly toxic to aquatic life) to phthalates (yup, you’ve heard that buzz word, linked to reproductive health issues), plenty of common cleaning chemicals are known to cause environmental damage.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using natural cleaning products that are low in volatile organic compounds like glycol esters, limonene, and hydrocarbons. So unless you’ve become a pro at reading labels or have spent the time researching, you may very easily become overwhelmed with deciphering what brands are doing it right.

That’s where we step in. Busy parents, we’ve got your back! Trying to make more eco-conscious decisions for your home and family doesn’t have to be hard. To help you find your way, here’s a round up of some of our favorite affordable AND widely available natural cleaning products:

Seventh Generation

Seventh Generation is a Certified B Corp, which is a designation that a business receives when it is meeting high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency on factors from employee benefits and charitable giving to supply chain practices and materials. Seventh Generation’s products are free from phosphates, synthetic surfactants, synthetic solvents and VOCs. One of our favorite items during high-germ seasons is the Disinfectant Spray.

Mrs Meyer’s Clean Day

Mrs Meyer’s is committed to using plant-based ingredients. Products are free from formaldehyde, synthetic surfactants, ammonia, parabens, phosphates and chlorine. From hand soap and laundry detergent to one of our favorites, the Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner, you will find so many safer options for your family and home.

Method

Method is also Certified B Corp, demonstrating high social and environmental performance and transparency when it comes to its product line. Products are free from ammonia, formaldehyde, bleach, phosphates and phthalates. If you’re looking for a solid All-Purpose Cleaner, Method’s Antibac provides a bacteria-fight punch you’ll be proud of.

Everspring

Everspring products are naturally-fragranced and biodegradable. Products are free from phthalates and propyl-paraben. Looking for a quick, multi-tasking-parent-kinda-clean? Give Everspring Multi-Surface Cleaning Wipes a try! A safe option for when little, independent hands want to help out too!

At the end of the day, there are A LOT of reasons why we opt for greener, more natural cleaning products in our home. Not only do natural cleaning products help ensure your family is safeguarded from unnecessary, harsh chemicals, but opting for a greener solution also protects the earth and your possessions!

Don’t forget, sharing is caring!  Come say hi over on Instagram (@stork_exchange) and let us know YOUR FAVORITE brands and natural cleaning product recommendations!