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A step-by-step guide to buying, using and disposing of household cleaning products _ the environmentally smart way
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Picture It's all about choices... and doing what's best for the environment -- a goal that's important for all of us! One area where each of us can make a positive contribution is in the way we purchase, use and dispose of cleaning products.
And it all boils down to one simple question...
"How can I do the right thing in my own home, every day?"
The following steps are designed to help you make the best decisions about cleaning products for your family, your community and the environment.
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1. Before you buy...
  • Think about the cleaning job at hand.
  • Read product labels carefully.
  • Choose the product that is best for your job.
  • Buy only what you can use. Picture
    2. Before you use...
  • Read the label and follow directions for proper use.
  • Follow all safety precautions.
  • Use the recommended amount. More is not necessarily better! Picture
    3. After you use...
  • Read the label and follow directions for proper storage.
  • Keep lid tightly closed. If there is a child resistant closure, use it!
  • Keep product in original container with readable labels.
  • Share any product you can't use with a friend or neighbor.
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    4. If you must dispose of a product...
  • Follow label directions if provided.
  • If there are no directions:
    Think about how you use the product. If it mixes with water it's water-soluble. Most liquid, gel and powder water-soluble household cleaning products can be disposed of down the drain with running water _ just like when you use them.
    Most solid products (soap scouring pads, sticks, towelettes, etc.) can be placed in the trash.
    For other products (such as oven cleaners, crystal drain openers and furniture polishes) call the manufacturer's toll-free number (or write to them) for disposal recommendations, or check with your local waste disposal facility.
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    5. When you dispose of the containers...
  • Empty any unused product (see #4).
  • Check with your Community Recycling Center to see what type of plastic, paperboard and metal containers they accept.
  • Refer to local guidelines for recycling plastics, paperboard and aerosol cans (steel and/or aluminum).

    Continued...


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