Imagine you’re part of a hotel housekeeping team, the unsung heroes who make sure everything sparkles and guests feel at home. Now, let’s talk about those labels you see on cleaning products – Safer Choice and Design for Environment. They’re not just fancy stickers; they’re a sometimes overlooked handshake between the EPA and eco-friendly products.
The Safer Choice label is your buddy, telling you, “This product is cool for both you and the planet.” It’s the EPA giving you a nod for picking something that’s safe and does the job well. You’ll see it on a bunch of different products, perfect for tackling everything from stained carpets to smudged mirrors.
This is a label that frequents the aisles at your local super market and tends to be much better known. A note in cleaning trivia, the Safer Choice Program was originally named Design for Environment. Not to be confused with the now pesticide specific label below.
Next there’s the DfE label, which is a bit more niche. It’s for those special products that go toe-to-toe with germs and come out on top, antimicrobial products that meet FIFRA standards and beyond. If it’s got the DfE label, you know it’s passed some serious tests to be kind to the environment while still kicking those germs to the curb.
This label doesn’t quite make it to the “front of the shelf” in Hospitality as often as it should. In history it was felt the sustainable or low toxicity disinfectants were not strong enough fast enough. This may have been true, and in response you have seen the EPA continually invest to attract more Manufactures. With that growth you can now find effective pathogen killers that won’t break the bank, irritate skin, or test the finishes on your Hotel furniture.
But here’s the thing – these labels aren’t just about being green. They’re about making choices that are better for your guests and the housekeeping teams health. When you choose products with these labels, you’re not just cleaning; you’re caring. You’re saying, “I want the best for my guests and the world around me.”
So, next time you’re stocking up a wipe dispenser or housekeeping cart, keep an eye out for Design for Environment. Whether you’re freshening up a suite or prepping a conference room, these labels are your guide to making choices that feel good, do good, and keep those guest reviews glowing. And that’s a win for everyone – guests, the planet, and your peace of mind.
Sources: EPA Safer Choice Program Website – https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
