Cleaning

These days you can find green, eco-friendly and cruelty free alternatives to the whole range of household cleaning products, from washing up liquid to wooden floor cleaner. But what’s the problem with ordinary cleaning products in the first place? They can contain chemical ingredients that are toxic to the environment and harmful to human health. And many of the makers of household cleaning products use animal testing.

Household cleaners contain surfactants that help remove grease and dirt. Surfactants can be naturally derived from vegetable substances, but many big brands use surfactants that are a by-product of petrol. These petroleum-based surfactants have been found to be slower to biodegrade and are significantly more damaging in terms of polluting water systems, damaging aquatic life and contributing to global warming.

When shopping for cleaners ensure the product contains vegetable based surfactants and is free of antibacterial additives and synthetic perfumes and colourings. To ensure the product is animal cruelty free - look out for the leaping bunny logo. For a free guide and to search for cruelty free companies see the Go Cruelty Free website.

The shops listed below all stock green cleaning products- in particular, look out for Bio-d, Clear Spring, Caurnie or Ecover. Or even better make your own cleaners with base ingredients of vinegar, lemon juice, bicarbonate soda and essential oils!