Go green when cleaning the house

Under the average American's sink lie countless wipes, paper towels and more than a half-dozen cleaning products. Many of those products are both harmful to the environment and hazardous to the home. With environmental concerns at an all-time high, are Americans tossing out their harmful chemical cleaners for "greener" alternatives?

According to a recent survey, three out of four Americans are hesitant to green their cleaning arsenal simply because they don't feel there are comparable alternatives on the market. At the end of the day, consumers want to go green but they are unwilling to sacrifice quality.

"We know people want to go green," said Lou Manfredini, national home improvement expert and host of the nationally syndicated television show "Housesmarts." "However, finding green alternatives to replace powerful household cleaners can be challenging."

With store shelves stocked with everything from organic toilet paper to biodegradable doggie bags, consumers have more earth-friendly choices than ever before. Manfredini offers the following suggestions to become a greener household without sacrificing the environment:

•For everyday cleanups, look for products that won't pollute water systems and harm aquatic life when the waste is disposed.

•Rather than paper towels, consider cutting up old Tshirts as dust rags and wipes. Wash separately or by hand.

•Tough stains don't require tough chemicals. Steer clear of strong chemicals such as ammonia, phosphates and bleach. One can get a deep clean while protecting the environment by identifying nontoxic cleaners that are known for high performance.

•To help stop common drain clogs, dispose of grease in a jar instead of washing it down the drain. For regular maintenance, use an ecofriendly drain care product monthly.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.