Why Portland Businesses Are Switching to Green Cleaning

Portland has always been at the forefront of environmental consciousness, and that extends to how businesses maintain their facilities. More and more Oregon companies are discovering that green cleaning isn't just good for the planet—it's good for business. Here's why the shift is happening and what it means for your facility.

What Green Cleaning Really Means

True green cleaning goes far beyond simply switching to products with "natural" on the label. It's a comprehensive approach that encompasses:

• Certified products: EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, or EcoLogo certified cleaners
• Proper dilution: Using concentrated products correctly to minimize waste
• Microfiber technology: Reducing chemical usage through better tools
• Water conservation: Methods that minimize water usage
• Waste reduction: Reusable containers and proper recycling
• Indoor air quality: Low-VOC products that don't off-gas harmful chemicals

Health Benefits for Your Team

Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can cause:

• Respiratory irritation and asthma symptoms
• Skin reactions and allergies
• Headaches from chemical fumes
• Eye irritation
• Long-term health concerns from chronic exposure

Green cleaning products eliminate or significantly reduce these risks. Companies that switch report fewer employee complaints about cleaning-related symptoms and improved overall air quality.

Environmental Impact

Conventional cleaning products contribute to environmental problems in several ways:

• Water pollution: Chemicals wash down drains into waterways
• Air pollution: VOCs contribute to smog formation
• Packaging waste: Single-use plastic containers fill landfills
• Manufacturing impact: Production of harsh chemicals creates pollution

Oregon's rivers and streams are particularly vulnerable. By choosing green cleaning, Portland businesses help protect the Willamette River watershed and our local ecosystems.

The Business Case for Going Green

Beyond ethics, green cleaning makes business sense:

• Employee wellness: Healthier workers mean fewer sick days and higher productivity
• Customer perception: Increasingly, clients prefer to work with environmentally responsible companies
• LEED certification: Green cleaning is required for LEED building certification
• Liability reduction: Fewer harsh chemicals means less risk of workplace injuries
• Talent attraction: Millennials and Gen Z prioritize working for sustainable companies

Green Products That Actually Work

Early green cleaning products had a reputation for being less effective. That's no longer the case. Modern formulations deliver professional-grade results:

• Hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners: Powerful disinfection without harsh chemicals
• Plant-based surfactants: Effective grease cutting from natural sources
• Enzyme cleaners: Break down organic matter naturally
• Citrus-based degreasers: D-limonene provides powerful cleaning safely

At TBM, we've tested dozens of green products to find those that match or exceed conventional cleaner performance.

Making the Transition

Switching to green cleaning doesn't have to be all-or-nothing. Many facilities start with:

• High-impact areas like restrooms and break rooms
• Products used in occupied spaces during business hours
• Floor care products (since floors are the largest surface area)

From there, you can expand your green program as staff become comfortable with new products and procedures.

Portland's Green Building Standards

Portland has some of the most progressive green building requirements in the nation. The city's green building policy requires city-owned facilities to meet high environmental standards, and many private buildings follow suit. Green cleaning is an essential component of these programs.

At TBM, we've been helping Portland businesses implement sustainable cleaning practices since 2007. We understand that going green is about more than products—it's about a complete approach to facility maintenance that respects both people and the environment.