Ecology launches new shopping tool for safer products
Summer is a busy time! Chances are you’ll use a GPS on your next road trip or map out your weekend hike with a field guide to avoid going off trail and to stay safe.
Back at home, navigating which products contain harmful chemicals for you, your family, and the environment can be just as challenging.
That’s why Ecology developed an interactive tool that helps make shopping for safer products easier.
Field tips for safer shopping
Our new safer shopping webpage helps you navigate harmful chemicals in products you use every day — from face creams and clay masks to clothes and multi-surface cleaning solutions. Below are some tips for safer shopping.
1. Shop in Washington.
Washington laws ban a variety of toxic chemicals from many products. Our new interactive graphic is an easy, “one-stop shop” that helps you see which products are safer, and which ones we’re working on next.
2. Look for certifications.
Product certifications can help you spot products with safer chemicals.
Look for labels like “EPA Safer Choice,” “Cradle to Cradle,” and “EWG verified” for safer cleaning products, home goods, and cosmetics. Many of these certified products are available at your nearest supermarket.
3. Look out for certain keywords or qualities.
Many toxic chemicals are added to products to make them waterproof or flame resistant. Sometimes you’ll see these keywords on product boxes, labels, or tags. Other times, qualities that make a product more flexible or shiny might mean toxic chemicals are present. Find out what keywords to look for to help you choose safer options.
4. Swap out products with known toxic chemicals.
That nonstick cookware set you got for your first place or as a wedding gift may contain PFAS or other harmful chemicals. And if your set is showing signs of age, such as chipped or scratched coatings that can allow chemicals to enter food, it’s definitely time to swap to a safer option. Cast iron, stainless steel, and glass cookware often perform just as well and are safer for you and the environment.
Review other products you can swap for safer options that work just as well and better protect your health and the environment.
5. Do-it-yourself.
Making your own safer cleaning products is easy. And chances are that you already have many of the ingredients in your pantry. Whether you’re looking for a safer glass cleaner or a multi-surface cleaner, check out our DIY cleaning recipes that use fewer toxic ingredients.
Still have questions?
Our shopping page has answers. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions where we’ve answered questions we’ve received from people all over the state. And if you still have a question, email us at SaferProductsWA@ecy.wa.gov.
Taking steps towards safer products
You shouldn’t need a chemistry degree to shop for safer products. Washington’s product laws are designed to keep harmful chemicals out of products before they reach store shelves. So, the products you buy in Washington will continue to become safer as more toxic chemicals are restricted.
Before you head out on your next shopping trip, bookmark our shopping page. It makes finding safer options just a tap away.
Stay in the know
Ecology continues making products safer through the Safer Products for Washington program. Each round of safer alternative research is a new opportunity where your feedback can help us as we work to restrict harmful chemicals and protect people, wildlife, and the environment.
Our scientists are currently reviewing safer alternatives to 15 products that contain toxic chemicals. In November, we’ll publish draft recommendations covering possible restrictions and reporting requirements based on our current findings.
To get updates on our product work, subscribe to our Safer Products for Washington email list.
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