In the United States, more and more families are choosing cleaning products that do not harm their health or that of the planet.
This trend is driving a market that, data show, already exceeds $30 billion globally and continues growing rapidly.
For many domestic workers, this change represents a real opportunity: to offer a service that is safer and that is becoming more popular. In this article, we explain what green cleaning is, how it can benefit you, and where you can learn more to get started.
What is Green Cleaning?
Green cleaning is a way of cleaning that protects the environment and your health. Instead of using products with harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia—which can damage skin, irritate eyes, or cause respiratory allergies—use more products that are natural or certified as safe for home use.
For example, white vinegar is known for its disinfectant and degreasing properties and is recommended for cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, and floors.
Many domestic workers use white vinegar to clean surfaces such as glass, showers, and sinks, because it helps dissolve grease, stains, and mineral deposits. However, it is not recommended for use on wooden floors, natural stone surfaces, electronic screens, or some household appliances, as it may damage them.
In addition to vinegar, there are other safe, homemade products that many workers already use. Baking soda helps remove stains, neutralizes odors, and acts as a mild abrasive. Liquid castile soap, made with vegetable oils, is a green alternative for cleaning floors, sinks, tiles, and other surfaces without leaving toxic residues.
There are also ready-made products labeled as “eco-friendly,” “biodegradable,” or “toxin-free,” which can be found in supermarkets or specialty stores. Using them does not make your job more difficult. On the contrary: green cleaning is often easier, safer, and more valued by families.
By offering this type of cleaning, you:
- Avoid breathing hazardous chemicals.
- Protect your hands and skin.
- Take care of the families you work with, especially if they have children, elderly people, or pets.
- What’s more, they’re good for the planet, because these products don’t pollute the water or the air.
A Growing Market
More and more families in the United States are looking for cleaning services that do not use toxic chemicals. This trend has led to the emergence of companies dedicated exclusively to green cleaning in many cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.
This growth is also reflected in businesses such as Avanti Green Eco Cleaning, founded in 2011 by Claudia Meneses, an immigrant from El Salvador. Meneses decided to use non-toxic products as a way to differentiate her business and protect the health of her customers and employees.
“It wasn’t something that people were so used to seeing, especially here in Vegas,” Meneses told the Las Vegas Sun. Her business now has around 45 cleaners and recently received the Small Business of the Year Award from the Nevada Small Business Development Center.
How to Provide Green Cleaning Services
If you are interested in offering green cleaning services, you don’t need to change everything overnight. You can start slowly, using these ideas.
- Use what you have: White vinegar disinfects, baking soda eliminates odors, and castile soap can be used for almost anything. They are safe, inexpensive, and easy to find in supermarkets or Latino groceries.
- Tell your clients: You can tell them that you are using more natural products to take care of your health and theirs. Many people value natural products, especially if they have children or pets.
- Take precautions: Even though the products are mild, wear gloves and ensure good ventilation.
Where you can learn more
- EPA Safer Choice: This US government program certifies cleaning products that are safer for your health and the environment. On their website, you can find a list of certified products and helpful resources for choosing healthier options for yourself and the families you work with. 👉 https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
Taking Care of Your Health and Growing at Work
Switching to green cleaning isn’t just a way to take care of your health, it can also open up new job opportunities. More and more clients are seeking safer services for their families, and cleaners who anticipate this need can stand out.
If you already offer this type of cleaning or are thinking about doing so, know that it is part of a larger shift. And like many other workers, you too can grow with it.
Editor’s note: This article was originally written in Spanish and translated into English by Tilde Language Justice Cooperative
