Green Cleaning – Non-toxic Baby!

01/11/2012

There is nothing like having a baby for making you more aware of your responsibilities. For me it was five years ago pregnant with my first child that I started to pay more attention to my home environment. I started reading labels, buying books on green parenting and learning more about the products I was using on a daily basis. I learned a lot about harmful chemicals and was happy to be able to apply this new knowledge to more a “green lifestyle” along with the birth of my son.

Why Clean Green?

Many health experts now believe that chemical exposure, even at very low levels, can have adverse impacts on their brain, internal organs and immune systems. For growing babies, this exposure can lead to developmental effects, such as birth defects, low birth weight, and behavioral development. As well, these harmful chemicals eventually make their way into the environment as they wash down the drain or are sprayed into the air. Their impact on natural eco-systems can be devastating.

Products to avoid in your house and in particular the baby room are products with synthetic fragrances, anti-bacterial products, disinfectants, and chemical air fresheners. Common household cleaners may contain ammonia; chlorine; volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as solvents and formaldehyde; harsh acids; and lye. These substances are capable of causing nausea, vomiting, inflammation, and burning of the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system. Some are linked to cancer, brain and central nervous system damage, asthma, liver disease, and other long-term conditions.

Benefits of Cleaning with Norwex and Microfiber

With my journey to find safer products and have a healthier home, a longtime friend introduced me to Norwex Enviro Products. The ability to sanitize with an “enviro” microfiber cloth and simply water intrigued me. As I became more familiar with the various cleaning and personal care products in the Norwex line, it quickly became apparent that these products truly do “Improve the Quality of Life”. This totally sounds cliche, but you can ask anyone that’s uses Norwex cleaning products, once you use their product line, you will not use anything else!

Unlike cotton cloths that will spread the dirt, grease and other particles around, Norwex microfiber, when used wet, lifts these particles up into the cloth and away from the surface and removes up to 99.9% of bacteria.  Once inside the cloth, the micro silver in the cloth goes to work with self purification properties against the mold, fungi and odor within 24 hours, so that it is ready to use again.  When used dry, Norwex microfiber produces an electrostatic charge that attracts and holds dust particles instead of pushing them around, therefore creating a cleaner surface without leaving behind a residue to attract dust, reducing your cleaning time. The cloths will last several years and come with a two year warranty.

I have a much cleaner, greener, safer home because of Norwex – thank you!  I encourage you to, do your own research, read labels and make steps to a healthier home environment for your family.

Resources/Additional Info:

Making Your Own Green Cleaning Products – David Suzuki
Environmental Working Group – Guide to Selecting Safer Products
Guide to Less Toxic Products
Heathly Child Healthy World

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