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DNRP
April 15, 2011

King County EcoConsumer encourages six-step Earth Day Detox for homes

Program to help residents ‘cleanse’ their home of toxic chemicals

Cleansing. Fasting. Detoxing. This recent health trend finds people making dietary changes to flush their systems and feel better from the inside-out.  King County’s EcoConsumer program is taking this trend one step further with an Earth Day Detox. This six-step regimen is intended to help residents detoxify their home in ways that protect their family’s health and protect the environment.

In partnership with other nonprofit groups and government agencies, King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson is encouraging residents to review the detox steps online at www.KCecoconsumer.com  each day between April 15 and Earth Day, April 22.

“Each day we’ll give you another step to help make your home a safer place, whether it be evaluating the contents of your medicine cabinet or sorting through the chemicals gathering dust in your garage,” Watson said. “The program will also give advice on how to properly dispose of toxic products and suggest greener and safer alternatives.”

The Earth Day Detox plan includes the following steps:

  • Step 1: Clean Green: Change out chemical-heavy household cleaners for greener, safer alternatives.
  • Step 2: Purge the Garage: Properly dispose of leftover oil-based paints and household hazardous waste.
  • Step 3: Do an About Face: Check your cosmetics and hygiene products for toxic substances.
  • Step 4: Buy Organic, Garden Organically: Reduce use of chemical fertilizers, use more compost and shop for organic products.
  • Step 5: Uncover Hidden Toxins: Reconsider products with questionable chemicals such as vinyl shower curtains, mothballs and nail polish. 
  • Step 6: Take Back Your Meds: Properly dispose of all unused or expired medications.

Partner organizations that advised on the content and resources for the Earth Day Detox program include the Washington State Toxics Coalition, the Local Hazardous Waste Management Program, King County Water and Land Resources Division and the Take Back Your Meds program.

To take part in the Earth Day Detox, go to facebook.com/ecoconsumer, where one step will be posted each day. Or visit the Earth Day Detox website at www.KCecoconsumer.com.

Related information

King County EcoConsumer

What do I do with...?

King County Solid Waste