Calculate your savings when using green cleaning products

For a list of green cleaning products endorsed by NY State and a calculator to help figure out how much money you can save with concentrated green cleaning products, visit the NYS website.

https://greencleaning.ny.gov/

Choose water-based caulks and adhesives

If you’re replacing floor or wall tile, or fixing up bathrooms and kitchens, choose caulks and adhesives that are water-based and low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

http://www.greenexhibits.org/build/alt_5.shtml

Green building materials are durable and easy to maintain

For common areas including lobbies, entryways, stairwells, and elevators, select materials that are durable, easy to maintain, and easy to clean.

http://www.buildinggreen.com/  

Green Cleaning products reduce odors in storage areas

Mechanical rooms and basements are typically minimally-ventilated spaces. If you’re unable to improve ventilation in these areas where it is not already required by code, ask your janitorial supplier about green cleaning products.

https://greencleaning.ny.gov/

Hang insulated, pre-filled and reinforced exterior doors

Hang insulated, pre-filled and reinforced exterior doors to maintain adequate temperatures within the building.  Install Energy Star® rated doorjambs and frames at both the interior and exterior doors to help sustain ideal temperatures within the units.

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product.showProductGroup&pgw_code=WI

Look up certified green cleaning products on the Green Seal website

No need to reinvent the wheel: several reputable organizations have done the background work for you. To find a list of certified cleaning products that are made with safer chemicals, visit Green Seal.

http://www.greenseal.org/

Prevent mold in bathrooms

Mold can be unhealthy for residents, unsightly and can cause permanent stains to floors and finishes.  Learn more at the Environmental Protection Agency’s webpage: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home:  

http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html

Purchase safe, non-toxic cleaning and maintenance products

Read the product’s ingredients label and be aware of the chemicals that you bring into your building.  Products with toxic ingredients should be stored in well-ventilated areas.

http://www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/products/cleaning.htm

Select bathroom finishes and materials that are low-emitting and non-toxic

Select caulks, adhesives, grout and floor substrates that are low-emitting and non-toxic.  Paint ceilings and walls with a low or no-VOC semi-gloss paint that is easy to wipe down.

http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/bathroom.htm

Select bathroom finishes and materials that are moisture and mold resistant

Eliminate unhealthy building conditions by choosing materials that are impervious to mold and bacteria.

http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html

Select flooring and cabinetry that are durable and easy to maintain

Select flooring and cabinetry that are durable and easy to maintain.

http://www.buildinggreen.com/menus/drillBC.cfm?BuilderCategoryID=8

Select kitchen finishes and materials that are low-emitting and non-toxic

Select paints, caulks, adhesives, and floor substrates that are low-emitting and non-toxic.

http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/Kitchen.htm

Select low or no-VOC semi-gloss paint that is easy to keep clean

Select paints, caulks, adhesives, and floor substrates that are low-emitting and non-toxic.

Use latex or water-based maintenance products

Latex, silicone, and water-based products are safer for the user and the building resident than oil-based products--they don’t release harmful fumes. They’re also easier to clean up using soap and warm water, rather than mineral spirits or turpentine.

http://www.greenseal.org/FindGreenSealProductsandServices.aspx?vid=ViewProductDetail&cid=10

Use low and zero VOC paints – they dry quickly and have little or no odor

Paints and primers, sealants and coatings, and adhesives and caulks contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate easily at room temperature, releasing unhealthy gasses into the building’s interior air.

http://www.greenseal.org/FindGreenSealProductsandServices.aspx?vid=ViewProductDetail&cid=10

Use refillable spray bottles for mixing cleaning concentrates

Look for products made from plant-based ingredients such as citrus, herb, and vegetable oils. Vinegar and baking soda are natural and effective cleaners. Use refillable spray bottles, and buy concentrates instead of ready-to-use solutions. Avoid aerosol sprays. Instead of paper towels, use microfiber cloths, which can be laundered.

http://www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/cleaning.htm