Green Cleaning 101: Back to Basics for a Healthier Building

Earlier today, a tenant called me in and asked a question that left me speechless for a second, and reminded me not everyone is familiar with sustainability lingo. The question was “What is green cleaning?”  It’s a fair question. The term is used often, but it’s rarely explained in plain language. So let’s strip away the jargon and take a fresh look at what green cleaning really means—what it is, what it’s not, and why it matters.

What Is Green Cleaning?

At its core, green cleaning refers to using cleaning methods and products that are safer for people and the environment. It involves reducing exposure to harsh chemicals, minimizing waste, and supporting sustainable practices in how buildings are cleaned and maintained. Green cleaning isn’t about scrubbing with just vinegar and baking soda (although those have their place). It’s a broad approach that prioritizes health, safety, and sustainability over simply making a space look clean.

Why Does It Matter?

Most conventional cleaning products are designed for effectiveness and speed. But many contain chemicals that, over time, can contribute to indoor air pollution, trigger allergies or asthma, harm aquatic life, and pollute waterways. Green cleaning tries to reduce or eliminate these risks.

It also supports broader goals like:

• Improving indoor air quality

• Reducing employee and occupant exposure to harmful substances

• Lowering a building’s environmental footprint

• Contributing to healthier workplaces and public spaces

  
  

Green cleaning is especially important in commercial buildings, where daily cleaning can significantly impact tenant well-being, janitorial staff safety, and the overall sustainability of operations.

The Key Elements of Green Cleaning

Let’s break down what green cleaning involves in practice:

1. Green Cleaning Products

Green cleaning products are formulated to be less harmful to human health and the environment. This can mean:

• No or low volatile organic compounds (VOCs): VOCs are chemicals that easily become vapors or gases, contributing to indoor air pollution.

• Biodegradable ingredients: These break down safely in the environment after use.

• Non-toxic components: Green products avoid ingredients that are known carcinogens or endocrine disruptors.

• Reduced or recyclable packaging: Many green cleaning brands use packaging made from recycled materials or designed to be refilled or reused.

  
  

Not all products labeled “green” are created equal, though. Look for credible certifications, like:

• ECOLOGO

• Green Seal

• Safer Choice (EPA)

• Cradle to Cradle Certified

These labels indicate the product has been independently tested for safety and sustainability claims.

2. Safer Cleaning Practices

Green cleaning isn’t just about what you use—it’s also about how you use it.

• Diluting chemicals properly to reduce waste and overexposure

• Using microfiber cloths and mops, which require less water and fewer chemicals

• Training custodial staff in proper procedures to ensure both safety and effectiveness

• Color-coded cleaning tools to prevent cross-contamination between areas like kitchens, washrooms, and offices

• Avoiding unnecessary use of disinfectants, which can be overused and contribute to antimicrobial resistance

  
  

In short, green cleaning involves smart cleaning—doing more with less and choosing the right tool for the job.

3. Sustainable Equipment

Vacuum cleaners and floor machines can also support green cleaning if they meet certain standards:

• HEPA filters to trap allergens and fine dust

• Energy-efficient models

• Low-noise equipment that minimizes disturbance in occupied buildings

  
  

Some cleaning programs also consider water conservation, such as using auto-scrubbers with onboard water recycling or cleaning methods that use minimal water.

4. Waste Reduction and Recycling

Green cleaning programs often align with broader waste reduction goals. This can include:

• Using refillable containers rather than single-use plastic bottles

• Offering recycling stations for paper towels (where permitted)

• Implementing policies to reduce the use of single-use items, like disposable mop heads or wipes

  
  

Even small changes in a building’s cleaning routine can prevent a surprising amount of waste.

5. Occupant Health and Wellness

One of the most important reasons to implement a green cleaning program is its direct impact on people’s health—especially in workplaces, schools, and commercial buildings.

Traditional cleaners can leave behind strong chemical smells that irritate sensitive individuals. Over time, exposure to harsh cleaning agents has been linked to skin irritation, respiratory issues, and even long-term health effects for cleaning staff.

Green cleaning products and practices are gentler and often unscented or naturally scented, which helps create a more comfortable and inclusive indoor environment for everyone.

Common Misconceptions

Because green cleaning is still a relatively new concept for some, it’s worth clearing up a few myths:

• Myth 1: Green products don’t work as well. High-quality green cleaning products have come a long way. Many are just as effective as traditional options when used correctly.

• Myth 2: It’s all or nothing. You don’t have to overhaul your entire cleaning system overnight. Many organizations start by replacing a few key products or equipment and build from there.

• Myth 3: It costs more. While some green products may have a slightly higher upfront cost, they can lead to long-term savings through reduced absenteeism, lower disposal costs, and longer equipment life.

  
  

Green Cleaning in Commercial Properties

If you manage or work in a commercial building, green cleaning is more than a nice-to-have—it’s a practical step toward environmental responsibility and tenant satisfaction.

Some commercial property managers use green cleaning checklists or incorporate these standards into contracts with janitorial providers. Others take it further and include green cleaning as part of certifications like:

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

• BOMA BEST (Building Owners and Managers Association Building Environmental Standards)

  
  

These frameworks help formalize sustainability practices and communicate progress to tenants and stakeholders.

Questions to Ask Your Cleaning Provider

If you’re considering adopting a green cleaning program—or want to check how green your current cleaning services really are—ask your cleaning provider:

• Do you use third-party certified green products?

• How do you train staff on green cleaning practices?

• What kind of equipment do you use?

• Do you track or report on chemical usage or waste reduction?

• Can you support our building’s sustainability or wellness goals?

  
  

Asking these questions can lead to better teamwork and make sure your cleaning services match your values and goals. You can also add Green Cleaning requirements right into your janitorial service contract.

Final Thoughts

Green cleaning is not just a trend—it’s a foundational element of healthier buildings and workplaces. It’s about being intentional with the choices we make in our daily operations, prioritizing safety and sustainability over convenience or habit.