Bees are essential to our environment. They pollinate over 75% of the world’s flowering plants and about 35% of global food crops. Without them, our ecosystems — and food systems — would suffer dramatically. But did you know that some everyday household cleaning habits might be contributing to their decline?

At Bee Friends Cleaners, we believe in providing eco-friendly cleaning solutions that protect your home and the planet. Let’s explore how your cleaning habits may be affecting bees — and what you can do to change that.

1. Toxic Cleaning Products Are a Major Threat

Most conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, triclosan, and synthetic fragrances. These chemicals often make their way into wastewater systems and eventually into the soil, water bodies, and plants that bees come into contact with.

How it hurts bees:

• Pollutes water sources where bees drink.
• Leaves harmful residues on flowering plants.
• Contributes to chemical build-up in ecosystems, harming bee immunity and behavior.
  
  

2. Pesticide-Infused Cleaners Can Be Deadly

Many outdoor and indoor cleaners include antibacterial or antifungal agents similar to pesticides. Even when used indoors, these toxins can be released into the air and leach into the ground, especially when disposed of improperly.

What to look for:

• Products labeled “antibacterial,” “disinfectant,” or “mold-killer” often contain bee-harming chemicals like triclosan or permethrin.
  
  

3. Improper Disposal of Cleaning Products

Flushing leftover cleaning agents down the drain or throwing containers into regular trash can lead to contamination. Municipal water treatment systems may not fully remove these substances, which eventually pollute rivers and streams — crucial water sources for bees.

Better disposal tips:

• Use up products completely before recycling the container.
• Take hazardous waste to local disposal centers.
• Switch to concentrated or refillable eco-cleaners.
  
  

4. Over-Cleaning Outdoor Spaces

Power-washing decks, scrubbing patios, and using chemical-based weed killers may leave a sterile environment — free from the nectar-rich wildflowers and native plants bees need to survive.

Eco-friendly alternative:

• Plant native flowers and pollinator-friendly plants in your garden.
• Limit chemical use in outdoor spaces.
• Let some “weeds” like dandelions and clover grow — bees love them!
  
  

5. Fragranced Cleaners = Hidden Dangers

Many people love the “clean” smell of citrus, lavender, or pine in their homes, but synthetic fragrances can disrupt bees’ ability to find food by masking floral scents and confusing their navigation.

What to do instead:

• Choose unscented or naturally scented cleaners made with essential oils.
• Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” or “phthalate-free.”

🐝 How Bee Friends Cleaners Helps Protect Bees

At Bee Friends Cleaners, we’re committed to using eco-friendly, non-toxic products that are safe for people, pets, and pollinators. Here’s how our approach helps:

✅ Biodegradable, plant-based cleaning agents
✅ No harmful pesticides or synthetic fragrances
✅ Thoughtful waste disposal methods
✅ Education about eco-conscious living

We believe cleaning your home shouldn’t come at the cost of the environment. By choosing Bee Friends Cleaners, you’re joining a movement to protect our planet — and the bees that keep it buzzing.

🌼 Small Changes Make a Big Difference

You don’t have to completely overhaul your lifestyle to make a difference. Start by swapping one or two conventional cleaners for eco-friendly options. Support local, sustainable cleaning services. Plant a few bee-friendly flowers. Talk to your friends and neighbors about the impact of cleaning habits on pollinators.

Every small change adds up — and our buzzing little friends will thank you.

Ready to switch to a cleaner, greener routine?
Contact Bee Friends Cleaners today to schedule eco-friendly cleaning services that care for your home and our planet. Let’s clean with kindness — for you, your family, and the bees.

Bee Friends Cleaners
Eco-Friendly | Local | Bee-Loving
Serving homes and businesses across New England and the Midwest.