When Natural Isn't Natural

But don't jump on the "natural" bandwagon just yet. Because there's little regulation here, any company can slap a "natural" label on a cleaning product and market the product as something more than what it really is.

To be sure you are getting a truly natural product, look for the following:

• Read the ingredients. The companies that produce truly natural products (like Method and Seventh Generation) will provide full disclosure on their product ingredients. Look for products that also provide full disclosure and then research each ingredient yourself so you can feel confident that you're getting a truly natural product.
• Look for certain verbiage on container labels. These include words and phrases like "environmentally friendly," "eco safe", and – most important and most relevant – certified biodegradable.

Become familiar with a particular product. That is, read reviews, ask others and pay attention to the natural industry. Pay attention to which products are highlighted as leaders in the green cleaning industry. Soon enough, you'll know which brands and specific products are best for you and your home.