According to The Spruce article, “The term "green cleaning" means using cleaning products and methods that keep people in the home and the environment healthy while reducing landfill waste and the human carbon footprint.” In today’s world, where wellness, sustainability, and environmental responsibility are top priorities, choosing to be a green cleaner or an eco-friendly cleaning company is no longer just a business decision—it is a commitment to protecting people and the planet. Traditional cleaning companies often rely on harsh, hazardous chemicals that can release toxic fumes, leave behind harmful residues, and pollute both indoor and outdoor environments. Green cleaning companies, on the other hand, use plant-based, biodegradable, and non-toxic products that clean effectively without jeopardizing health or ecological balance. This shift toward safer alternatives improves the quality of life for clients, employees, and entire communities.

One of the most significant advantages of being a green cleaner is the reduction of health risks associated with toxic chemical exposure. Many conventional cleaning agents contain ammonia, chlorine bleach, VOCs, and synthetic fragrances, all of which can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, skin conditions, or long-term health complications. For cleaning technicians who work with these chemicals daily, the risks multiply. Green cleaning products, by contrast, are safer to use, minimizing occupational hazards and ensuring a healthier work environment. This leads to reduced sick days, higher employee morale, and a workforce that feels valued and protected. When a company protects its team, productivity and retention naturally improve.

Green cleaning companies also benefit from enhanced customer trust and satisfaction. More households, schools, medical facilities, and businesses now demand eco-friendly cleaning services because they recognize the dangers of toxic chemicals. Clients appreciate knowing that their homes, workplaces, or public spaces are sanitized using methods that safeguard their families, customers, pets, and employees. Eco-conscious cleaning companies often stand out in competitive markets because their services align with modern health and sustainability values. This not only strengthens brand reputation but also opens doors to premium markets such as LEED-certified buildings, wellness centers, environmentally conscious organizations, and government contracts that require or prefer green practices.

From an environmental standpoint, green cleaning is unquestionably superior. Hazardous chemicals often enter waterways, contribute to soil contamination, and produce harmful air pollutants. Their plastic packaging adds to landfill waste and increases carbon footprints. Green cleaning companies help counteract these effects by using biodegradable solutions, recyclable packaging, and energy-efficient cleaning processes. Many green cleaners also participate in sustainability initiatives, such as reducing water usage, minimizing waste, and adopting reusable cleaning cloths and tools. These practices collectively reduce environmental harm and support global efforts to combat climate change and pollution.

Moreover, being a green cleaner sets a powerful example of responsible business leadership. It signals a willingness to innovate, adapt, and prioritize long-term well-being over short-term profit. Green cleaning companies contribute positively to public health, environmental conservation, and corporate responsibility. They influence industry standards and inspire others to adopt safer, cleaner, and greener methods. This commitment resonates deeply with today’s environmentally aware consumers and creates a lasting impact on future generations.

For all these reasons—health protection, customer trust, environmental responsibility, and ethical business practices being a green cleaner or green cleaning company is undeniably better than relying on hazardous chemicals. It is a smarter, safer, and more sustainable path that benefits everyone: the cleaner, the client, the community, and the planet. Choosing green cleaning is not just a service upgrade, it is a meaningful contribution to a healthier world.

https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-green-cleaning-1900463

As awareness of environmental and public health issues continues to grow, natural green cleaning has become more than a household preference; it has become a global necessity. Traditional cleaning chemicals often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), synthetic fragrances, and harsh toxins that can pollute indoor air, contaminate water systems, and negatively impact ecosystems. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air due to common household products. Choosing natural, plant-based, biodegradable green cleaning products ensures safer living conditions and reduces the overall chemical burden on the planet. By making greener choices, individuals help decrease environmental contamination and promote a healthier future for all living beings.

Natural green cleaning also plays a vital role in protecting the population, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or immune sensitivities. Many commercial cleaners contain ingredients linked to asthma, skin irritation, endocrine disruption, and long-term health complications. Studies published by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) show that chronic exposure to toxic cleaning chemicals can lead to lasting health effects. Green cleaning products free of chlorine, ammonia, formaldehyde, and artificial dyes significantly reduce these risks. When households and businesses choose safer cleaning options, they collectively protect community health and reduce reliance on hazardous chemicals that can linger in the air, on surfaces, and in waterways.

The value of natural green cleaning extends beyond individual homes it influences the global effort to protect our planet. Eco-friendly cleaners use renewable resources, recycled or recyclable packaging, and formulas that break down safely after use. This reduces plastic pollution, supports sustainable manufacturing, and prevents chemical runoff that harms wildlife and aquatic life. Organizations and consumers can further strengthen the movement by supporting certified green cleaning companies and suppliers. The IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory is a trusted resource that lists professional cleaning providers committed to environmentally responsible practices, allowing individuals and businesses to hire services aligned with the highest green-cleaning standards.

Ultimately, choosing natural green cleaning reflects a commitment to mindful, responsible living. Beyond cleaner air and safer homes, it represents a larger movement toward sustainability, conservation, and public well-being. Every person who embraces green cleaning contributes to a collective effort to reduce toxic exposure, preserve natural resources, and promote healthier communities. By eliminating harmful chemicals, supporting eco-friendly products, and utilizing reputable resources such as the IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory, we take meaningful steps toward a cleaner, safer, more sustainable world—for ourselves, for future generations, and for the planet we all share.

Medical cleaning practices can be successfully applied to both residential and commercial cleaning environments to improve hygiene and reduce the spread of harmful pathogens. Techniques used in healthcare settings—such as using hospital-grade disinfectants, following proper dwell times, and preventing cross-contamination—are highly effective in everyday cleaning situations. When adapted correctly, these practices help create safer homes, offices, schools, and businesses.

In residential environments, applying medical cleaning practices ensures that families are protected from common viruses, bacteria, and allergens. Using color-coded microfiber cloths, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and ensuring good ventilation are simple ways to elevate household sanitation. These methods reduce the spread of illness and promote a healthier living environment, especially for households with children, seniors, or immunocompromised individuals.

Commercial environments benefit greatly from medical-grade cleaning as well. Offices, restaurants, gyms, clinics, and retail stores all experience heavy foot traffic and frequent contact with shared surfaces. Implementing standardized cleaning protocols—such as routine disinfecting of high-touch areas, proper PPE use, and using EPA-registered disinfectants—helps reduce workplace illness and supports a professional, safe atmosphere for both customers and employees. Adopting these methods demonstrates a company’s commitment to health and safety.

By incorporating healthcare cleaning standards into all types of cleaning situations, businesses and homeowners can significantly reduce the spread of germs and viruses. Professional cleaning companies trained in medical cleaning practices bring added value by delivering high-level sanitation, advanced infection-control methods, and reliable safety protocols. For additional information or to find certified providers, consult the IJCSA Janitorial Service Directory.

Keywords: medical cleaning, infection control, residential sanitation, commercial cleaning, EPA-registered disinfectants, cross-contamination prevention.

Due to  the important role that janitors and other cleaning professions play blood pathogen education and safety is crucial. There are many diseases that are present in blood that can endanger professionals that come into contact with it, OSHA provides tools and protocols that protect employees along with employers.

During clean up PPE is necessary for anyone coming into contact with blood pathogens. HIV, Hepatitis B are not only deadly if not treated but can be prevented with the correct equipment. 

The importance of training and employees knowing what safety measure are not only expected but are required is beneficial for everyone involved. Employees need to know the risks that come with there daily tasks but they will need to be prepared for the unexpected and how to handle it. As an employer the importance of employees understanding how to handle different situations creates a comfortable and safe workspace. 

When it comes to inviting a cleaning company into your home, your family deserves more than a service that simply “looks” clean. IJCSA members are trained, tested, and verified professionals who go far beyond surface-level cleaning. Through the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association, these companies receive ongoing education in safe, science-based cleaning practices — skills that make a real difference in the health and comfort of your home. Whether you need recurring housekeeping or a deep seasonal clean, you can find a trusted, certified professional near you using the official Home Cleaning | Maid Service Directory:
https://www.ijcsa.org/House-Cleaning-Services

One of the biggest advantages of choosing an IJCSA-certified cleaner is their training in proper disinfection during flu season. With children bringing home germs from school and families constantly exposed to public spaces, correct disinfection techniques matter more than ever. IJCSA members learn how long viruses can survive on surfaces, how to apply disinfectants with the proper contact time, and how to avoid chemical misuse. They are also trained to read Safety Data Sheets, ensuring every product is used safely, effectively, and in a way that protects your family, pets, and indoor air quality.

IJCSA members also master the details that make a home truly sanitary. For example, they learn how to clean toilets using enzyme-based cleaners, which break down organic matter at the molecular level so stains, odors, and buildup are removed naturally and safely. They’re taught to use disposable paper towels for high-risk areas like toilets to prevent cross-contamination. They even learn professional tips such as using a plunger before cleaning the toilet, which lowers the water level so the bowl’s surfaces are more exposed — allowing cleaners and disinfectants to reach further and work more effectively. These small but important steps reflect the level of care and training IJCSA members bring to every home.

What truly sets IJCSA-affiliated companies apart is their commitment to learning and doing what is best for the family, the home, and the environment — not just what is fastest or cheapest. They complete required courses, stay informed about the newest cleaning science, and follow ethical guidelines that put clients first. When you hire an IJCSA member, you’re choosing a professional who cleans correctly, safely, and with genuine care.

If you want a cleaning company you can trust with your home and your family’s health, start with the professionals who are trained to the highest standards.
Find your certified cleaner here: https://www.ijcsa.org/House-Cleaning-Services

Brie’s Breezy Clean, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is proud to announce that we are now officially IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified. Completing this certification opened our eyes even more to how deeply cleaning impacts human health and the environment. One of the most powerful lessons was understanding how much everyday plastic waste—especially from cleaning products—contributes to environmental disasters like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. I was also surprised to learn how many products marketed as “green” or “natural” still contain petrochemical-based surfactants, synthetic fragrances, or other questionable ingredients. This reinforced something I’ve practiced for years: the safest and most transparent cleaning solutions are often the simple, homemade ones—just like our grandparents used, but supported today by real science.

The certification also deepened my technical knowledge. I learned the actual science behind natural cleaning—what truly combats microorganisms, how long viruses like influenza can survive on different surfaces, and why certain natural disinfectants work so well. For example, flu viruses can survive 8–12 hours on fabrics and bedding and up to 24 hours on hard surfaces, which is why laundering bedding and avoiding shaking fabrics is so important. I also gained a deeper understanding of tools like steam cleaners, which use nothing but high-temperature water vapor to kill up to 99.9% of common bacteria and dust mites without chemicals. And yes—proper safety matters: wearing eye protection when pouring or mixing vinegar is a smart precaution because acetic acid can irritate eyes, and accidental mixing with bleach can release chlorine gas. I also learned how chlorine bleach can create irritating byproducts and why it’s best reserved for very specific situations rather than everyday cleaning.

One of my favorite discoveries during the course was how different microfiber textures are engineered for different cleaning tasks. Smooth, tight-weave microfiber is perfect for glass and stainless steel; plush microfiber captures dust beautifully; and textured or waffle-weave microfiber is ideal for kitchen grease and tougher grime. These small details elevate cleaning from “getting it done” to using the right tools with expert intention.

Becoming Master Green Cleaning Certified confirms what I’ve believed for decades: that cleaning should protect homes, families, pets, indoor air, the environment—and also the person doing the work. As the sole cleaner at Brie’s Breezy Clean, with more than 30 years of experience, I bring an even deeper, scientifically grounded approach to every home I enter. This certification gives clients confidence that their cleaning service is not only effective but also safe, sustainable, and rooted in real knowledge—not greenwashing. I’m excited to continue educating families in Minneapolis on how to create healthier, happier homes through thoughtful, science-backed green cleaning.

Being a green cleaner—or running a fully Green Cleaning Certified company—creates a level of pride and purpose that traditional hazardous-chemical cleaning simply cannot match. When you choose natural cleaning methods, you know you’re doing the best for your clients, their families, their pets, and your own health. There is a special joy in walking into a home and knowing that the air will remain fresh, safe, and free of toxic fumes long after you’re gone. Instead of contributing to indoor air pollution, asthma triggers, and chemical residue, green cleaning helps create healthier spaces that support a child’s development, protect elderly clients, and allow everyone in the home to breathe freely.

Green cleaning also reduces reliance on large companies producing harsh and unnecessary petrochemical-based cleaners. Learning how to clean effectively with simple, biodegradable ingredients—like vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, essential oils, and steam—not only cuts through grime but also makes cleaning itself more enjoyable. The science behind natural cleaning becomes empowering: instead of falling for marketing tricks or “miracle toxic sprays,” you understand how each ingredient works, why it’s safer, and what it can replace. For many green cleaners, using fewer, multi-purpose products is not only easier but also more efficient, making each job smoother and faster.

Choosing green cleaning helps protect the planet in ways that go far beyond a single home. When you use fewer plastic bottles, safer ingredients, and reusable tools like microfiber (used responsibly), you help reduce waste headed for landfills—and keep plastic out of our oceans. Every decision you make prevents more toxins from entering waterways, affecting marine life, and accumulating through the food chain. Green cleaning companies truly contribute to a healthier ecosystem, proving that small daily decisions can have a powerful collective impact.

There are also major long-term health benefits. Many traditional cleaning chemicals are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, respiratory issues, and chronic skin irritation. Green cleaners dramatically lower those risks. Children grow up in healthier homes, adults maintain better indoor air quality, and cleaners protect their lungs, skin, and nervous system from years of exposure. Even your clients notice the difference—homes that have been cleaned naturally for years become far easier to maintain because they don’t have layers of chemical buildup on showers, tubs, counters, and floors. Tools like steam cleaners make deep cleaning easier and more effective than scrubbing with harsh products ever could.

Ultimately, being a Green Cleaning Certified company means being part of something bigger—an international community committed to safer practices, environmental responsibility, and better outcomes for everyone involved. Through the IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory (https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services), customers can find cleaners who care about sustainability, health, and high-quality results. By choosing natural ingredients, reducing waste, and educating clients on green home habits, green cleaners not only do their job—they help build a safer, cleaner, more joyful world for every living creature on Earth.

Green cleaning isn’t just a lifestyle choice, it’s a responsibility we all share, because the products we use inside our homes eventually impact the world outside them. Traditional cleaners contain toxic chemicals, VOCs, and petroleum-based ingredients that pollute our indoor air, increase asthma symptoms, and put young children and pets, who are far more sensitive, at risk. Choosing eco-friendly, non-toxic, and biodegradable cleaners protects the health of every person who lives or works in the space, helping reduce respiratory issues, skin irritation, and the long-term chemical exposure that many scientists believe contributes to chronic illness. Green cleaning reminds us that our homes should feel like sanctuaries, not chemical storage units.

Every bottle we use and toss out contributes to the growing crisis of environmental pollution. The world is already facing massive ecological damage, including the Great Pacific Landfill, where plastic waste harms sea turtles, birds, and countless marine animals. These creatures often ingest microplastics, which then enter the food chain and ultimately circle back to us. Harsh chemicals also end up in waterways, damaging ecosystems and poisoning wildlife. By switching to natural, plant-based products, reusable containers, and steam cleaning, we reduce our plastic footprint, limit hazardous chemical runoff, and take real action to protect the biodiversity that keeps the planet in balance.

Green cleaning is one of the simplest ways for ordinary people to participate in global healing. Every time we replace bleach, ammonia, or synthetic fragrances with safer alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, steam, or hydrogen peroxide, we help reduce indoor air pollution, prevent accidental poisoning, and support a healthier planet for future generations. When illness spreads through homes or offices, green disinfecting solutions, used correctly and safely, help stop chains of infection without exposing people to harmful toxins. For those seeking professionals who share these values, organizations like the IJCSA Green Cleaning Service Directory offer certified, environmentally conscious cleaning providers committed to healthier homes, workplaces, and ecosystems. Find a green cleaner near you at: https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services.

Great customer service in the cleaning and janitorial world starts with listening. IJCSA Members are trained to begin every relationship by hearing clients out—asking about your priorities, your expectations, your schedule, your budget, and even your sensitivities like fragrances, pets, or green cleaning needs. Rather than a one-size-fits-all checklist, we focus on what you actually care about: that one bathroom that always bugs you, the fingerprints on the stainless steel, the high-traffic hallway, or the kid's room that needs extra care. Many IJCSA Members offer consultations or walkthroughs so you can get to know your cleaner or janitorial team before committing. That's not just cleaning—that's partnership.

Great service also means making things easy and secure. IJCSA companies know that today's consumers expect seamless online booking, clear communication, and safe ways to pay. Our members focus on professional systems- confirmations, reminders, flexible scheduling, and straightforward policies-so you always know who's coming, when, and what's included. Behind the scenes, IJCSA Members invest in ongoing training, certifications, and updated techniques so they stay current with the latest in safety standards, green cleaning best practices, and industry developments. That adds up to better results for you, fewer worries, and a service that genuinely gets better over time instead of just going through the same old motions.

If you are seeking a cleaning or janitorial company that takes customer service as seriously as clean floors and sparkling bathrooms, start with an IJCSA Member. You can find a trusted professional serving your area through the IJCSA Business Directory here: https://www.ijcsa.org/Find-A-Cleaning-Service-Janitorial-Service

At Brie's Breezy Clean, being IJCSA Green Cleaning Certified isn't just a label on our website – it's how we actually clean every single day. I, Brie, am the only cleaner in the company and have been caring for homes for over 30 years. That experience, combined with formal green cleaning training, underpins everything I do in your home. I want your space to feel not just tidy but like a safe, healthy sanctuary for you, your kids, your pets, and anyone with allergies or asthma. That means thinking carefully about what I use, how I use it, and why the dirt is there in the first place.

Our green cleaning program starts with full transparency: we disclose on our website all the cleaning products and their ingredients that we use; many of which we hand-make in our home garage using natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, simple soaps, and other low-tox, eco-conscious options. My approach is always to start with the least intense, least toxic solution and go up from there only if necessary. Bleach and harsh chemicals are used as a last resort, reserved for serious mold issues and not for everyday cleaning. Most of the time, the right mix of natural products, good technique, and elbow grease is more than sufficient.

For me, green cleaning is also about understanding the dirt, not just spraying everything with one “miracle” chemical. The dust in the bedroom is different from the dust in the kitchen – kitchen dust often carries a fine film of grease, while bedroom dust has more fibers and dead skin. The soap scum in a shower is not the same as mineral deposits on a faucet. Since I pay attention to where the grime comes from, I can choose the right gentle method for each situation instead of blasting everything with harsh all-purpose cleaners. That's also why there's no "deep clean upgrade" option at Brie's Breezy Clean - every clean we do is a deep clean. If you have more rooms that need this level of detail, we simply book more hours, because it genuinely bothers me to leave a room half-done. Implementing a green cleaning program daily also means protecting my own health and the health of my clients over the long term. Utilizing lower-tox, non-petroleum-based products, avoiding heavy synthetic fragrances, and minimizing harsh fumes equate to my being able to continue to do this work I love without breathing in a chemical cloud every day - and you don't come home to one, either. As an IJCSA Green Cleaning Certified provider, I stay educated on safer ingredients, proper product use, and environmental impact, and I bring that knowledge into every Minneapolis home I clean. When you hire Brie's Breezy Clean, you're not just getting a clean house; you're getting a thoughtful, science-aware, and heart-led approach to keeping your home clean, green, and genuinely healthy.