The antibacterial and ‘cleaners’ that many people think are helpful don’t clean hands better than soap and water, and also add to the risk of breeding “super germs,” bacteria that resist to the chemicals.

Toss toxic cleaners carefully

When handling your finished cleaning products, don’t just throw the old ones in the trash. If they’re too toxic for your home, they won’t be good for the drain or the landfill either. Many communities hold toxics electronics recycling days and will take all of these off your hands. Throwing chemicals in the trash or down the drain means they might end up back in your water supply.

Employ a green house cleaning service

For people don’t have the time to clean their own homes, there are an increasing number of green cleaning services out there to help get things done. If you can’t find one in your area, call around until you find a service willing to use the products and methods you specify.

Keep the toxins away from your room

Imagine what’s on your shoes at the end of the day. Bringing that oil, animal waste, particulate pollution, pollen, and who knows what else into the house. Especially for kids that spend time on floor level. Keep a good doormat and maintain a shoeless house policy. Less dirt also means less sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming, which means less work, water, energy, and fewer chemicals. So, why not?