Skip to site content

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

The Indian Health Service is working closely with our tribal partners to coordinate a comprehensive public health response to both COVID-19 and mpox.

Environmental Sustainability

Green Cleaning

Many of the cleaning and air freshener products that you use in your home contain toxic chemicals not listed on their labels. They can be inhaled by just breathing or absorbed through the skin and cause health problems such as eye or throat irritation, headaches, allergic reactions, respiratory illnesses, and more serious long-term issues. They can even be hidden in products that advertise to be “green.”

Economical alternatives can be found right in your pantry already! Products such as white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and olive oil can be used to effectively clean and even disinfect your house. Not only are these homemade cleaning products better for us, they are better for the environment by cutting down on packaging waste and reducing the release of chemicals that contribute to air and water pollution.

Try these simple recipes at home!

All-purpose cleaner: Mix ½ cup of white vinegar and ¼ cup of baking soda with 2 liters of water.
Carpet stains: equal parts vinegar and water
Window/glass cleaner: Mix 1 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, 1 cup water, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Furniture polish: Mix 1 cup olive oil with ½ cup lemon juice

Tips:

Use salt on pots and pans to absorb excess grease before cleaning normally
Sprinkle baking soda on carpet before vacuuming to get out odors
Use essential oils in homemade mixes to add scent if desired
Lemon juice can be used to dissolve soap scum and hard water deposits