The right Organic Cleaning Products can help reduce the amount of toxic chemicals that enter schools and classrooms. Choosing natural cleaners can also help to improve air quality and boost teacher morale, which has been shown to positively impact student performance and attendance. Making the switch to more sustainable cleaning products is easier than ever with a few smart shopping tips.

When shopping for organic cleansers, keep in mind that “organic” means something naturally occurring in the earth rather than synthetically produced. This is a great way to differentiate products that claim to be green and nontoxic from those that truly are.

From Kitchen to Bathroom: The Power of Organic Cleaning Products for a Healthier Home

Another important factor to consider when shopping for cleansers is that some nontoxic options may still emit odors and fumes, so it’s crucial to use these products in well-ventilated areas. This will prevent teachers and staff from inhaling those odors, which can cause irritation.

The best organic cleaning products will be nontoxic and free of toxins, but that doesn’t mean they will work as well as traditional cleaners. To maximize their efficacy, LeBow recommends switching to reusable microfiber cloths (which remove buildup like soap scum and grime much more effectively than paper towels), using scrub brushes on tough jobs, and giving the cleaners time to do their job.

As for disinfectant sprays, while most organic cleansers are safe enough to wipe surfaces, it’s best to purchase a product like Seventh Generation’s Eucalyptus Spearmint and Thyme surface spray for those particularly dirty areas or areas that aren’t regularly cleaned. However, many homemade cleaners can disinfect, too, if they’re made fresh and used right away.