{"id":26052,"date":"2024-11-13T15:16:28","date_gmt":"2024-11-13T15:16:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/?p=26052"},"modified":"2024-11-13T15:21:35","modified_gmt":"2024-11-13T15:21:35","slug":"guide-to-reading-labels-how-to-understand-the-ingredients-in-eco-conscious-cleaning-products","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/live-cleaner\/guide-to-reading-labels-how-to-understand-the-ingredients-in-eco-conscious-cleaning-products\/","title":{"rendered":"Guide to Reading Labels: How to Understand the Ingredients in Eco-Conscious Cleaning Products"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In a world where we are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of taking care of our health, our family, and the environment, choosing <strong>eco-conscious cleaning products<\/strong> has become a priority. However, we often find ourselves faced with labels full of ingredients we don\u2019t fully understand. How can we be sure we\u2019re making a <strong>safer choice<\/strong> for our home? In this guide, we\u2019ll teach you how to read and understand product labels and highlight how <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">ECOS cleaning products<\/span><\/a> stand out for its commitment to plant-based ingredients and responsible formulas.<\/p>\n<h3>Why is it important to read labels?<\/h3>\n<p>Traditional cleaning products often contain ingredients that can be harmful to both health and the environment. Components like phosphates, chlorine, or synthetic fragrances can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and even impact water quality when they reach our rivers and oceans. That\u2019s why reading and understanding product labels is essential to make an informed decision and choose products that are safer for your family, pets, and the planet.<\/p>\n<h3>How to Read Cleaning Product Labels<\/h3>\n<p>When shopping for cleaning products, you might encounter labels full of complex ingredient names. Understanding what these ingredients mean is key to ensuring you\u2019re choosing products that are safer for both your health and the environment. Here are a few tips on how to read and understand the labels of <strong>cleaning products<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>1. Look for Plant- and Mineral \u2013 Based Active Ingredients:<\/h3>\n<p>Products made with plant-based ingredients are generally safer for your home and the environment. Look for ingredients like <strong>sodium coco-sulfate<\/strong> (derived from coconut oil), a highly effective cleaning agent that is also gentle on the skin. You\u2019ll find it in many of our products, such as our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/laundry\/hypoallergenic-laundry-detergent-with-enzymes-free-clear\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Preservatives are necessary to keep cleaning formulas stable. At ECOS, we only use preservatives approved by Safer Choice, such as potassium sorbate. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/epa-safer-choice-products\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">Safer Choice<\/span><\/a> is the approval standard created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help consumers find products that are safer for their health and the environment without sacrificing performance.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to brighten your laundry without using bleach, opt for ingredients like the <strong>stain-fighting minerals<\/strong> found in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/laundry\/oxobrite-multi-purpose-stain-remover-free-clear\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">Oxobrite<\/span><\/a>. These minerals offer an eco-friendly alternative to bleach and can be used safely without the worry of hidden toxic chemicals.<\/p>\n<p><img data-opt-id=1189110379  fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-26055 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:400\/h:263\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"263\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:400\/h:263\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:1600\/h:1053\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:768\/h:506\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:1536\/h:1011\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:1640\/h:1080\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:18\/h:12\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/AdobeStock_102148866.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>2. Avoid Harmful Ingredients<\/h3>\n<p>Some ingredients found in conventional cleaning products can be harmful to health and the environment. Ingredients to avoid include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Ethoxylated surfactants:<\/strong> These are dangerous because during manufacturing they create a harmful byproduct known as 1,4-dioxane, a carcinogen and neurotoxin. These compounds rarely appear on labels but can be detected by looking for ingredients ending in \u201c-eth,\u201d such as laureth-6 or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Chlorine:<\/strong> While effective for disinfection and often found in bleach, it can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs, and harm water ecosystems.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Optical brighteners:<\/strong> These are fluorescent dyes used to make fabrics appear whiter or brighter. However, they often leave residues that can irritate the skin and are not biodegradable.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Phosphates:<\/strong> Though generally safe for human use, phosphates can damage aquatic ecosystems by causing algal blooms.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Phthalates:<\/strong> Common in fragrances, these compounds can cause respiratory issues and disrupt hormonal balance. If a product lists \u201cfragrance\u201d but doesn\u2019t specify that it\u2019s phthalate-free, it may contain them.<\/li>\n<li><strong>MEA, DEA, and TEA:<\/strong> These emulsifiers help keep ingredients in cleaning products from separating, but some studies have linked them to asthma and skin irritations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>3. Look for Trustworthy Certifications<\/h3>\n<p>Labels on <strong>eco-conscious cleaning products<\/strong> often include certification seals from independent organizations, such as the EPA\u2019s <strong>Safer Choice<\/strong> seal. This certification ensures the product has been thoroughly evaluated and meets stringent safety standards for both the environment and human health.<\/p>\n<h3>4. Pay Attention to Warnings<\/h3>\n<p>Product warnings on cleaning labels can give you a quick indication of which are safe or hazardous. Words like \u201cdanger,\u201d \u201ccaution,\u201d or \u201ctoxic\u201d indicate that the product may pose risks to health or the environment, especially when used incorrectly.<\/p>\n<h3>5. Opt for Products with Transparent Ingredients<\/h3>\n<p>Brands committed to consumer safety and wellness typically list their ingredients clearly and transparently. If a label only includes vague terms like &#8220;fragrance&#8221; or &#8220;colorants,&#8221; it could be a red flag that the product contains undisclosed chemicals that may be harmful.<\/p>\n<h3>6. Choose Products with Minimal Packaging<\/h3>\n<p>Beyond ingredients, packaging is also important. <strong>Eco-conscious cleaning products<\/strong> usually use recyclable or reusable packaging. Choosing brands that use sustainable packaging is another way to reduce your environmental impact.<\/p>\n<h3>7. Check the Usage Instructions<\/h3>\n<p>The usage instructions on cleaning product labels help ensure you\u2019re using the products safely and effectively. Following the manufacturer\u2019s recommendations will not only guarantee better cleaning results but also minimize health risks.<\/p>\n<p><img data-opt-id=387801489  fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-26056 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:400\/h:267\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"267\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:400\/h:267\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:1600\/h:1067\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:768\/h:512\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:1536\/h:1024\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:18\/h:12\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg 18w, https:\/\/mlcvmo0gntjk.i.optimole.com\/cb:ICH-.67306\/w:1619\/h:1080\/q:90\/f:best\/ig:avif\/https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/20240105_ECOS_797-Edit-LR.jpg 1966w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Transparency on Labels<\/h3>\n<p>Did you know that there\u2019s no federal law in the United States that requires cleaning product brands to disclose their ingredients? While companies are required to list every ingredient in the foods we consume, cleaning product brands can choose not to reveal anything. That\u2019s right\u2014nothing at all.<\/p>\n<p>However, there is an exception: In 2017, California passed <strong>the Cleaning Product Right to Know Act<\/strong>, which requires brands to disclose the ingredients in their cleaning products both on the label and in a digital format if they are sold in the state. This is a significant step forward, and it would be fantastic to see more states adopt similar measures or, even better, a federal law that makes this the standard nationwide.<\/p>\n<p>At ECOS, we believe everyone deserves access to the information they need to choose safer cleaning products. As we often say, the more you know, the smarter you can be about what you bring into your home.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s why we\u2019ve identified over <strong>500 harmful ingredients<\/strong> found in cleaning products and listed them on our website. We call them &#8220;<strong>The Nasties<\/strong>,&#8221; and you can check them out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/the-nasties\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">here<\/span><\/a>. This list is not only informative but also serves as our promise that we will never use these ingredients in our products.<\/p>\n<p>Another useful tip when shopping is to look for the U.S. EPA <strong>Safer Choice<\/strong> logo on cleaning product labels. This program identifies products that are made with ingredients that are safer for your health and the environment without sacrificing performance. More than 120 ECOS products carry this certification. You can read more about it <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/epa-safer-choice-products\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">here<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Conclusion<\/h3>\n<p>Reading cleaning product labels may seem overwhelming at first, but with a little knowledge, it becomes easier to identify ingredients that are safe for your family and the planet. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/all-products\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">ECOS cleaning products<\/span><\/a> are a perfect example of how innovation in plant-powered ingredients can offer superior cleaning without compromising health or the environment. By choosing eco-conscious and plant-based products like those offered by ECOS, you\u2019re not only caring for your loved ones but also for the world around you.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Make the safer choice. Choose ECOS cleaning products for a clean home in harmony with nature.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>7 Common Toxins Found in Laundry Detergent<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/live-cleaner\/7-common-toxins-found-in-laundry-detergent\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/live-cleaner\/7-common-toxins-found-in-laundry-detergent\/<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The Nasties: Our Never-Ever List<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/the-nasties\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/the-nasties\/<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p>6 Common Toxins Found in Household Cleaners<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/live-cleaner\/6-common-toxins-found-in-household-cleaners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"word-break: normal;\">https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/live-cleaner\/6-common-toxins-found-in-household-cleaners\/<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In a world where we are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of taking care of our health, our family, and the environment, choosing&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":26060,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[525],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-26052","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-environment"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26052","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=26052"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26052\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":26372,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26052\/revisions\/26372"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/26060"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=26052"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=26052"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=26052"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}