Going Green in the Valley: Why Eco-Friendly Cleaning Matters More Than Ever

For the past year, the conversation around commercial cleaning has been dominated by one word: Disinfection. And rightly so. But as businesses across Phoenix stabilize and look toward the future, we are seeing a renewed focus on another critical aspect of facility maintenance: Sustainability.

At Vaakawi, we believe that a clean workplace shouldn't come at the cost of the environment—or your employees' long-term health. While we have always offered eco-friendly options, we are seeing a massive shift in 2021 where "Green Cleaning" is becoming the standard, not the alternative.

It’s Not Just About "Saving the Planet"
While reducing our environmental footprint is vital (especially here in the beautiful Sonoran Desert), the benefits of green cleaning go directly to your bottom line and workplace culture.

1. Improved Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Many traditional commercial cleaning products contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can linger in the air long after the cleaning crew has left, contributing to headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues for your staff. By switching to Green Seal-certified products that are low-VOC or VOC-free, you are literally helping your team breathe easier.

2. Protecting Your Assets Harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia are effective, but they are also corrosive. Over time, they can degrade carpet fibers, strip the finish off VCT flooring, and damage upholstery. Eco-friendly products are generally pH-neutral and gentler on surfaces, extending the lifespan of your office furniture and flooring.

3. The "Wellness" Recruitment Tool Top talent in Phoenix is looking for employers who care. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability—right down to the soap in the dispensers and the chemicals used on the floors—is a tangible way to show you value employee wellness.

Vaakawi’s Approach to Green Cleaning
We don't just swap out a bottle and call it "green." Our approach is holistic:

• Certified Products: We utilize cleaning agents certified by reputable organizations like Green Seal and ECOLOGO, ensuring they meet strict environmental and safety standards.
• HEPA Filtration: Our vacuums are equipped with HEPA filters that capture 99.97% of particulates (dust, pollen, mold) rather than blowing them back into the air.
• Microfiber Technology: We use high-quality microfiber cloths and mops that capture more dirt and bacteria with less water and chemical usage than traditional cotton loops.
• Concentration Systems: We mix our chemicals on-site using automated dilution systems. This prevents waste and significantly reduces the number of plastic bottles ending up in Phoenix landfills.

Is Your Cleaning "Green" or Just "Greenwashed"?
Many providers claim to be eco-friendly, but it's important to ask the right questions. Are they using certified products? Do they have a recycling program for their containers? Do they train their staff on proper dilution?

If you are ready to create a healthier, more sustainable workspace without sacrificing that sparkle, it’s time to talk to Vaakawi.

Contact us today to request a "Green Cleaning" audit of your facility.