The concerns about the long-term negative effects of the synthetic chemicals used in commercial cleaning solutions has led to more research into environmentally-friendly products and methods that would be able to remove dirt, stains, and other debris without the use of dangerous substances. This research resulted in the discovery of certain organic elements - such as ethanol, sodium carbonate, and citric acid - that would produce the same caustic action that synthetic solutions relied on to remove dirt and stains from surfaces and fabrics.

The majority of cleaning solutions that have been used for many years were composed of chlorinated hydrocarbons. These compounds presented the possibility of serious health risks and environmental damage due to their carcinogenic qualities. These harmful elements can make their way into soil and water tables by way of water treatment processes that did not sufficiently filter out these carcinogens. Additionally, cleaning solutions that were used in the household environment, such as carpet cleaning solutions and everyday chemical cleaners, presented immediate exposure to their harmful elements through direct physical contact or by inhaling of the fumes of such materials.

Ethanol, most often associated with fuel products, is an organic element that is the by-product of the fermentation of sugar. This element is the main component of vinegar. The activation of enzymes when vinegar (especially white distilled vinegar) is applied as a cleaning agent causes debris to be loosened from surfaces and fabrics, such as rugs and upholstery. Vinegar is most effective when diluted with water to reduce the possibility of inadvertent damage to the surface to which it is applied, such as fading of colors in fabrics.

Sodium carbonate, the main element of baking soda, is another natural substance that is very useful in cleaning compounds. Forms of sodium carbonate have been used for many years by many cultures as an effective general cleaner. It is especially effective in removing grease and oil stains. This is due to the ability of baking soda to prevent magnesium and calcium ions from binding to water molecules, thus increasing the cleaning action of detergents that are most often mixed with water. Soaps made from plant extracts, such as vegetable oils, are also good substitutes for synthetic detergents.

Citric acid is also extremely effective in the removal of those elements that stain fabrics and surfaces. The use of lemon juice in particular is an effective and environmentally-friendly cleaning additive. The citric acid in lemon juice not only causes enzyme-type actions that loosen elements from surfaces, but also has a brightening characteristic that can remove discoloration that can be a side effect of some types of stains, such as coffee or chocolate.

The introduction of the use of environmentally-friendly cleaning elements such as these has had a significant effect on reducing the possibility of health risks and environmental damage. This is especially true in the household, where the continual presence of synthetic chemicals can pose a threat to the health of those who inhabit the home. Yet the benefits of using organic minerals and other natural elements in cleaning compounds will provide a greater opportunity for a cleaner environment all around.