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Label Lingo
Figuring out whether a cleaning product is safe and the environment can
be difficult. Manufacturers are not required by law to disclose
ingredients. To help, here are definitions of terms that are common
and important to understand when purchasing or looking for assistance
in selecting the right products for the application.
Term |
What it Means |
The Bottom Line |
Bio-Degradable |
The product will break down over time into harmless materials. |
Doesn't mean the product is safe for the environment unless the manufacturer says how long it will take it to biodegrade. The sooner, the better. |
Chlorine-Free |
Contains no chlorine, a toxic chemical responsible for more household poisonings annually then any other and a cause of ozone depletion. |
Opt for chlorine-free versions of all cleaners and stop cleaning with chlorine bleach, for your health and the environment's. |
Nontoxic |
Only a very large amount will cause damage. |
Use of the term isn't regulated, so choose products from manufacturers that indicate in what way products are nontoxic ("non-toxic if inhaled," for example). |
Oxygenated |
Helps whiten and brighten by releasing oxygen, which breaks up stains and eliminates mildew. |
Safer than chlorine bleach. Oxygenated products may not work as quickly as chlorine-based products, but they are effective when you follow label directions. |
Phosphate-Free |
Contains no phosphates (which increase a detergent's effectiveness). When phosphates enter waterways, they spur algae to overgrow, depleting oxygen and killing fish. |
A meaningless marketing term. Phosphates are banned by law in all cleaning products except automatic dishwasher detergents. |
Surfactants |
The active cleaning agent in detergents. Conventional products often use petroleum-based surfactants. |
Opt for surfactants described as plant-based; these are a better choice for the environment. |
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