Why Green Cleaning?
Our modern society has abandoned many natural minerals and powerful plant extracts in favor of "New and Improved" man-made chemicals. Much of this shift is a direct result of the thousands of factories that our country built in order to provide chemicals, ammunition and guns for WWII. After the war ended many of these factories switched to producing chemicals that promised to make life easier. Unfortunately, many of the "miracle" chemicals found in everyday cleaning supplies are toxic and most states require that leftover cleaning products be discarded at hazardous waste disposal centers.
"Going green" is becoming an increasingly common catch phrase. However, many commercials still imply that parents who do not use bleach or other disinfectants are endangering their children’s health. Thus, many people are skeptical that natural methods can work as well as the cleaning products they are used to. We created plain jane’s cleaning products to use in our green housecleaning business. We were unsatisfied with the majority of the green cleaning products that were available, so we decided to make our own. After months of research and testing, we developed four cleaning products that are effective, pleasant to use, and safe for the environment.
A guiding principle behind plain jane’s is to use only ingredients that have been used by humans for so long that they are generally regarded as safe (GRAS). There is nothing in plain jane’s products that was not used in our grandmothers’ days. We add essential oils not only for their wonderful aroma but also for their properties. For example, lavender and tea tree oils are antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral. Unlike the chemicals used in conventional products, essential oils kill only a healthy spectrum of bacteria.
Although no cleaning products should be ingested or slathered over the body, plain jane’s products are safe and biodegradable. They do not contain any artificial colors, fragrances, or excessive packaging. Unlike other companies that sell highly specialized cleaners, plain jane’s products are versatile. All you need to clean your entire home are our four products and Murphy’s Oil Soap.
plain jane’s products are designed to be used with microfiber cloths (although they are made with petroleum they last for years, are easy to launder, and eliminate any need for disposable towels). Microfiber cloths hold large amounts of dirt and are highly absorbent. We also carry untreated cellulose sponges, green scouring pads, and "The Tool" wet/dry mops.
FAQ's:
Do green cleaning products work as well as regular products?
Yes! plain jane’s products are highly effective without being dangerous to you or the environment. We created our products for use in our own green housecleaning business—we wouldn’t clean with anything weak!
If microfiber clothes are synthetic, how can they be considered environmentally responsible?
Microfiber cloths are far more durable than cotton cloths and last many years. They are lint free and you will use substantially smaller amounts of cleaning products with microfiber cloths than with conventional rags. The tiny loops collect and trap dust better than disposable dusting cloths and they can be used for just about any cleaning chore. Microfiber cloths may be laundered at any temperature and machine dried. Do not use fabric softener or dryer sheets*.
Why does plain jane’s make so few cleaning products?
We believe that less is more and that a simpler system makes more sense. Fewer bottles in your cabinet means less waste in our landfills.
Who’s plain jane anyway?
Well, there is no PLAIN jane but there is a Jane: our founder’s no-nonsense mother.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils have been used throughout history for their impressive array of properties from keeping germs and bacteria at bay to helping the body heal. They also smell great. Essential oils are steam-distilled from plant matter. Unlke synthetic air fresheners, they are pure essences: not chemically-created compounds.
Why do plain jane’s liquid products say "Shake it up, often!"?
plain jane’s natural products do not contain man-made emulsifiers, so sometimes the ingredients separate. A quick shake of the bottle does the trick.
I’ve tried washing my windows with vinegar but it didn't work very well, is plain jane’s glass and mirror spray vinegar based?
No, although vinegar is a wonderful thing, plain jane’s alcohol-based formula is even better!
Why are antibacterial sponges a problem? Isn’t bacteria a bad thing?
The FDA considers the chemicals used in antibacterial sponges to be pesticides. Boiling is the best way to sanitize a dirty sponge, but boiling treated sponges leaves a disgusting residue on pots and pans. We suggest using natural cellulose sponges, which are biodegradable, compostable, natural, undyed, and inexpensive enough that you can replace them every week or so.
I want to do more to cut down on my home's carbon footprint, what do you suggest?
Switch to 100% post-consumer recycled paper products such as toilet paper, office paper and, if you really need them, paper towels. Seventh Generation is a wonderful company to support. Buy vegetable based, phosphate-free laundry detergent, dishwasher powder and dish soap. Buy organic produce, preferable locally-grown and cut down on your meat consuption. Invest in good insulation for your home and install ceiling fans in the rooms where you spend the most time. For more tips, check out the links section.
What should I do with my current products?
You can use them up and recycle the bottles; if you would like to dispose of their contents you MUST contact your local government. The vast majority of state and local municipalities require taking these substances to a hazzardous waste center. Dumping them down the drain is a bad idea and could contribute to poisoning your area’s rivers, streams and ground water.
*As a general rule, there is no need to EVER use dryer sheets. The vast majority on the market release highly toxic fumes as they heat up in the machine. They leave a waxy residue and cause fabrics to yellow over time. A good alternative are dryer balls, which physically knock the static out of your laundry; they can be purchased at many bath and home stores. Additionally natural fabrics rarely hold a static charge and synthetic fabrics will last much longer if air dried anyway. If you would still like to use a fabric softener, try adding a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.