Karma Cowan, founder of The Greener Cleener, LLC, was nurtured and cared for by a mother who believed in giving her family a good, healthy start in a chemical-free home. Like the majority of young children, Cowan didn’t notice the benefits of her toxic-free environment. “When I became a mother and my daughter developed asthma and allergies, that’s when I started to understand how over time, the bioaccumulation of toxic mutagens, carcinogens and neurotoxins deposited in the fatty tissue of the body are damaging to health. It’s also when I began appreciating why my mom made her own cleaning products,” says Cowan, who now makes The Greener Cleener products that contain safe materials.

Their all-purpose cleaner, which is scented according to clients’ preferences using 100 percent essential oils, is included free with regular cleaning services or sold to the public at The Collections Farmers’ Market, at the corner of Airport Road and Vanderbilt Beach Road, in Naples.

All of the environmentally sensitive cleaning services and products offered by The Greener Cleener follow a “3G” criteria: good for people, good for the planet and good for the local and global community. “Our ingredients are not only sustainable and without detergents, surfactants, sulfates, chemicals, colors, dyes and perfumes, but also purchased locally whenever possible. We support local citrus growers and use lemon juice as a natural disinfectant to cut grease and stains,” explains Cowan, who notes that the products contain antibacterial and antimicrobial essential oils such as oregano and tea tree oil. Castile soap, baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice and plant-based hydrogen peroxide are other ingredients used in The Greener Cleener products.

The company, which also spot treats, disinfects and steam cleans furniture and upholstery, couches, rugs and cars, shares a percentage of their profits with Avow Hospice and Autism Speaks. The Greener Cleener is a family-owned and operated business. Cowan’s grandmother does the bookkeeping and accounting. Her mother, brother, sister and best friend help with the rest of the business operations.

The Greener Cleener, LLC, 239-404-7102, [email protected], GreenerCleener.com.