Tough Stuff Chemicals

Do you have “tough stuff” chemicals in your house? Many household cleaners are advertised as:

TOUGH on stains!
FIGHTS odors!
CUTS the grease!
WORKS HARD so you don’t have to!

And this is not false advertising. The chemicals that make our cleaners strong can also make them poisonous to people and pets. Sometimes we find it easier to let harsh chemicals do the hard work of cleaning. And if we dispose of these chemicals improperly, they become household hazardous waste that can contaminate our water.

Learn More!

Make A Greener Cleaner

Make yours a clean and green home by making a greener cleaner that can clean and shine without harming your family! Click here for Greener Cleaner recipes that use less toxic ingredients found right in the kitchen.

Take the “Which Is Best?” Test

Invite your friends and family to test your greener cleaner against a commercial cleaner. Which cleans best? Which is less harmful to breathe or to get on your skin? Which is safer around young children and pets? Which is less harmful to our waterways? Which is your choice?

Take Action

The many chemicals we use every day to clean our home can be hazardous to clean water, people and pets!

If your family uses commercial cleaners and paints, contact your local Solid Waste Management agency to find out about safe disposal. Many towns have days where they collect household hazardous wastes.

What Can I Do?

Additional Resources

NC DENR’s “Pollution Solutions” – find 8 sources of stormwater pollution in the picture

Take EPA’s “House Tour” to learn about toxic chemicals used in the home