Regina Ryerson

Clean solutions for healthy homes

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Breathe Easier— and Clean Easier— with Health-Based Cleaning

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Small, short-haird cat sits in an open screened window, above a sofa. A narcissus bloom stretches over the sofa’s edge.
Sophie, my buddy with feline asthma. Her symptoms improved after a big house cleaning detox, plus frequent damp-dusting and HEPA vacuuminng. And switching her cleaning over to using least-toxic products.that work.

Updated 2021-09-28

There’s more to keeping a clean, healthy home than “eco-cleaners”, microfiber and HEPA vacuums. Based on my years in the health-based cleaning industry, I’m here to fill in some gaps. And share what’s worked on the job.

Sick of cleaning?

You’re not alone, at least in a literal sense.

Did you know— over 80,000 modern chemicals are in use today, but most have never been fully tested. Many of these chemicals are in everyday consumer products, like cleaners. Some may pollute our indoor air. Learn more…

Get some relief

Health-based cleaning protects your health, and the health of your loved ones, with the least impact on the environment.

Based on my hands-on experience in professional settings, and extensive research, here are some key elements to start with. More details in coming posts!

  • Keep germs under control by keeping everything clean and dry. Then disinfect as needed, selectively and safely.
  • Damp dust, as recommended by allergy and asthma experts. A textured cotton or linen cloth works great in most cases.
  • Vacuum rather than sweep. You’ll pick up more with your vac, and scatter less dust. Be sure your machine is equipped with a true HEPA filter.
  • Work efficiently, with tools and processes we’ll talk about in coming posts.
  • Handle and store any toxic products safely. Most toxic cleaners are obsolete in my experience. Safety tips coming!
  • De-clutter to streamline your cleaning. Update 2021-09-28: Check out Debra Baida at Liberated Spaces who works virtually or onsite. Her pioneering service has been named Best organizer in San Francisco Magazine’s annual Best of SF issue and is one of the first Certified Green Businesses in San Francisco. Check out her blog that goes way behind the scenes.
  • Design and decorate for low-maintenance cleaning. Think streamlined, with smooth, easy-to-clean materials. And fewer of them. Keep small items you don’t use constantly in drawers, or in cabinets or glass-covered shelves, to keep dust off.

Comment tool coming!

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