Green Versus Clean Myths - is this what keeps us from changing our lifestyle?

While many of us either Want To Be Green or are Almost Green, there are a few myths out there that prevent us from taking some important steps. The following myth busters may help us get there. 1) Bottled Water vs. Tap Water. Myth: Bottled water is better for you. Fact: Bottled water is less regulated than tap water, and in a 2008 study by the Environmental Working Group, 38 contaminants were found in 10 of the top brands of bottled water. Also, plastic bottles LEACH HARMFUL CHEMICALS INTO THE WATER. If you like things clean, then why add to the huge amount of plastic that exists in our oceans and landfills? 2) The Disinfection Obsession. Myth: Green cleaning products aren't as effective as antibacterials. Fact: Unless you are a surgeon requiring a sterile environment, good old soap and water or even home made concoctions like vinegar and baking soda are just as effective cleaning agents as antibacterials - sans the side effects of toxic chemicals, indoor air pollution, and water pollution. These don't sound so very clean, do they? 3) Use and Toss. Myth: Single use products are more hygienic than reusable ones. Actually, you can get a better clean from cloth towel than a paper towel, without the paper waste and mess. Cloth towels are more absorbent and stronger and therefore are more effective at getting the grime out of your kitchen. Use and wash is still better than use and toss, and if your mess is not a wet one, you can even reuse your cloth towel a few times before washing it, making it even more environmentally preferable to paper. And forget using sponges... they hold moisture and encourage bacteria - and are hard to clean - don't even talk about soaking in toxic bleach!!! A dish wash cloth works just fine and can be tossed into the wash after a day or so of use. 4) If you are passionately green you don't shave or shower regularly. Wrong! "Environmentalists are simply educated consumers" choosing products and conserving wisely without giving up on hygiene.