Brie’s Breezy Clean, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is proud to announce that we are now officially IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified. Completing this certification opened our eyes even more to how deeply cleaning impacts human health and the environment. One of the most powerful lessons was understanding how much everyday plastic waste—especially from cleaning products—contributes to environmental disasters like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. I was also surprised to learn how many products marketed as “green” or “natural” still contain petrochemical-based surfactants, synthetic fragrances, or other questionable ingredients. This reinforced something I’ve practiced for years: the safest and most transparent cleaning solutions are often the simple, homemade ones—just like our grandparents used, but supported today by real science.

The certification also deepened my technical knowledge. I learned the actual science behind natural cleaning—what truly combats microorganisms, how long viruses like influenza can survive on different surfaces, and why certain natural disinfectants work so well. For example, flu viruses can survive 8–12 hours on fabrics and bedding and up to 24 hours on hard surfaces, which is why laundering bedding and avoiding shaking fabrics is so important. I also gained a deeper understanding of tools like steam cleaners, which use nothing but high-temperature water vapor to kill up to 99.9% of common bacteria and dust mites without chemicals. And yes—proper safety matters: wearing eye protection when pouring or mixing vinegar is a smart precaution because acetic acid can irritate eyes, and accidental mixing with bleach can release chlorine gas. I also learned how chlorine bleach can create irritating byproducts and why it’s best reserved for very specific situations rather than everyday cleaning.

One of my favorite discoveries during the course was how different microfiber textures are engineered for different cleaning tasks. Smooth, tight-weave microfiber is perfect for glass and stainless steel; plush microfiber captures dust beautifully; and textured or waffle-weave microfiber is ideal for kitchen grease and tougher grime. These small details elevate cleaning from “getting it done” to using the right tools with expert intention.

Becoming Master Green Cleaning Certified confirms what I’ve believed for decades: that cleaning should protect homes, families, pets, indoor air, the environment—and also the person doing the work. As the sole cleaner at Brie’s Breezy Clean, with more than 30 years of experience, I bring an even deeper, scientifically grounded approach to every home I enter. This certification gives clients confidence that their cleaning service is not only effective but also safe, sustainable, and rooted in real knowledge—not greenwashing. I’m excited to continue educating families in Minneapolis on how to create healthier, happier homes through thoughtful, science-backed green cleaning.