Use less toxic/hazardous alternatives whenever you can and only purchase those toxic/hazardous products in small quantities and use them to completion. Find tips below to help you reduce the amount of hazardous chemicals you have in your business and the amount of hazardous waste you produce!
DIY less-toxic cleaners
Zero out hazardous waste and packaging from common household cleaner products in disposable bottles. Using low-cost natural ingredients, you can mix your own, save money, reduce toxics, and store them in reusable spray bottles or jars! Download a printable version of DIY non-toxic cleaner recipes(PDF, 1MB).
All-purpose cleaner recipe
1 tbsp. white vinegar + ½ tsp. borax + ½ tsp. baking soda + ½ tbsp. castile soap + 2 cups hot water
Add the first four ingredients into a spray bottle, then slowly add the hot water and shake until the dry ingredients are dissolved
Scrubbing powder recipe
½ cup baking soda + ½ cup salt + ½ cup borax powder
Lightly wet surface with water or undiluted white vinegar (for really bad messes). Sprinkle powder on and let sit 5 minutes. Scrub with a sturdy brush until clean. Rinse with water or vinegar (for really bad messes)
Glass cleaner recipe
1 cup white vinegar + 1 cup rubbing alcohol + 2 cups water
Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and use to clean glass and mirror surfaces
Purchase rechargeable batteries instead of single-use
Rechargeable batteries can be charged and reused hundreds and sometimes thousands of times. If batteries must be used, consider purchasing rechargeable to cut down on single-use hazardous waste!
Use a drain snake instead of drain cleaner
Got a tough drain clog? Use a metal snake instead of a caustic drain cleaner. The impact on the waterways and water treatment plant will be greatly reduced and you won't have any hazardous waste to dispose of!