Chicago businesses are paying more attention to sustainability. Green cleaning is part of that. But what does "green cleaning" actually mean? And does it work as well as traditional cleaning?
Quick Answer: Green cleaning uses environmentally friendly products and methods that reduce health risks while still cleaning effectively. Most businesses see 10-15% higher costs, but benefits include better employee health, LEED certification points, and reduced environmental impact.
### What Green Cleaning Actually Means
Green cleaning isn't just marketing. It has specific requirements:
Safer Products
Products that meet EPA Safer Choice standards or Green Seal certification. These products are tested to ensure they work while being safer for people and the environment.
Reduced Chemicals
Fewer harsh chemicals. No chlorine bleach. No ammonia. No phosphates. Instead, products use plant-based ingredients, enzymes, or safer synthetic alternatives.
Proper Methods
Green cleaning isn't just products. It's also methods. Microfiber cloths that capture more dust. Color-coded systems that prevent cross-contamination. Proper dilution that reduces waste.
Waste Reduction
Concentrated products that reduce packaging. Reusable cloths instead of paper. Proper recycling of containers.
### Why Businesses Choose Green Cleaning
Employee Health
Traditional cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They cause headaches, eye irritation, and respiratory issues. Employees with asthma or allergies are particularly affected. Green products reduce these risks.
A study by the CDC found that green cleaning reduced asthma symptoms in cleaning workers by 30%. That translates to fewer sick days and better employee health.
LEED Certification
If your building is LEED certified or pursuing certification, green cleaning contributes points. LEED requires specific cleaning products and methods.
Client and Employee Expectations
Many businesses and employees prefer sustainable practices. Green cleaning is visible evidence of environmental commitment.
Regulatory Trends
Chemical regulations are tightening. California's Proposition 65. The EU's REACH regulation. Getting ahead of regulations means fewer changes later.
### What's in Green Cleaning Products
Instead of:
- Chlorine bleach (irritant, environmental hazard)
- Ammonia (respiratory irritant)
- Phosphates (water pollution)
- Volatile organic compounds (air quality issues)
- Artificial fragrances (allergies, sensitivities)
Green products use:
- Plant-based surfactants
- Citrus-based solvents
- Enzymes for odor control
- Hydrogen peroxide for disinfecting
- Essential oils for fragrance (optional)
### Certifications to Look For
EPA Safer Choice
The EPA's certification for safer products. Products are tested for effectiveness and safety. Look for the Safer Choice label on cleaning products.
Green Seal
An independent certification for cleaning products and services. Green Seal GS-37 covers general purpose cleaners. GS-40 covers carpet cleaners. GS-42 covers cleaning services.
LEED Compliance
If your building is LEED certified, you need cleaning products that meet LEED requirements. This typically means Green Seal or EPA Safer Choice products.
### Does Green Cleaning Work?
Yes. Modern green cleaning products work as well as traditional products. This wasn't always true — early green products were weaker. But formulations have improved significantly.
Independent testing shows that EPA Safer Choice products clean as effectively as traditional products. Green Seal certification requires effectiveness testing.
The key: Use products correctly. Follow dilution instructions. Use the right product for the surface. Green products work when used properly.
### Green Cleaning Methods
Green cleaning isn't just products. It's also:
Microfiber Cloths
Capture more dust and bacteria than paper towels or cotton cloths. Reduce chemical use. Can be washed and reused.
Color-Coded Systems
Prevent cross-contamination. Red for restrooms. Blue for glass. Green for kitchens. Yellow for general surfaces.
Proper Dilution
Concentrated products reduce packaging and waste. But they must be diluted correctly. Too strong wastes product. Too weak doesn't clean.
Entryway Systems
Walk-off mats at entrances capture 80% of dirt before it enters. This reduces cleaning needs throughout the building.
HEPA Vacuums
Capture fine particles that traditional vacuums release back into the air. Important for indoor air quality.
### Chicago-Specific Considerations
LEED Buildings
Many Chicago buildings are LEED certified. If your building requires LEED-compliant cleaning, specify this in your cleaning contract.
City of Chicago Green Initiatives
Chicago has sustainability goals. Green cleaning aligns with city initiatives. Some buildings promote their green practices to tenants and visitors.
Employee Health in Winter
Chicago winters mean closed windows and recirculated air. Green products reduce VOCs and improve indoor air quality when windows are closed for months.
### Cost Comparison
Traditional Cleaning:
- General purpose cleaner: $0.10-$0.15 per diluted gallon
- Restroom cleaner: $0.15-$0.25 per diluted gallon
- Floor cleaner: $0.10-$0.20 per diluted gallon
Green Cleaning:
- General purpose cleaner: $0.12-$0.18 per diluted gallon
- Restroom cleaner: $0.18-$0.30 per diluted gallon
- Floor cleaner: $0.12-$0.25 per diluted gallon
Typical Premium: 10-15% higher cost for green products. The gap is shrinking as green products become more common.
### Questions to Ask Your Cleaning Company
What certifications do your products have?
Look for EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, or other recognized certifications.
How do you dilute concentrated products?
Proper dilution is essential for effectiveness and safety. They should have a process for accurate dilution.
What methods do you use beyond products?
Green cleaning includes microfiber, HEPA vacuums, color-coded systems. Ask about their complete approach.
Can you provide documentation for LEED?
If you need LEED compliance, ask for product lists, certifications, and cleaning logs.
Are your staff trained in green cleaning?
Green cleaning requires different techniques. Ask about training programs.
### Making the Transition
Step 1: Assess Current Products
Ask your cleaning company for a list of current products. Identify which have harsh chemicals.
Step 2: Request Green Alternatives
Most cleaning companies can switch to green products. Ask for options and pricing.
Step 3: Evaluate Results
Try green cleaning for 30 days. Assess cleanliness. Check for any issues.
Step 4: Communicate to Employees
Let employees know you've switched. Many will appreciate the change for health reasons.
Step 5: Document for Certification
If you need LEED points or want to promote your sustainability practices, keep documentation of products and methods.
### Common Myths About Green Cleaning
"Green products don't work as well."
False. Modern green products are tested for effectiveness. They clean as well as traditional products when used correctly.
"Green cleaning is much more expensive."
False. The premium is 10-15%, and decreasing. Some concentrated green products actually cost less per use.
"Green cleaning doesn't disinfect."
False. Hydrogen peroxide-based products and other green disinfectants kill bacteria and viruses effectively.
"You can't have a truly green cleaning program."
False. Green cleaning programs exist and work. They require commitment from the cleaning company and clear specifications from the business.
Need green cleaning for your Chicago office? Get a free quote or call 630-349-2862. EPA Safer Choice products, Green Seal certified methods.