The supermarket cleaning aisle can be a bamboozling place for the environmentally conscious shopper. Some products are emblazoned with words like 'green' and 'non-toxic'; some boast that they contain natural ingredients; some wear the logos of environmental organisations. So, how do you select a truly eco-friendly cleaning product?

The first step towards making an environmentally friendly purchase is to familiarise yourself with the labelling on cleaning products, says Bridget Gardner, Director of Fresh Green Clean, an independent organisation dedicated to environmental education. "What you're looking for are simply-formulated and safer options. If the product label has 'caution', 'poison' or 'corrosive' on the front in bold, you should avoid it or use it with care."

Another thing to consider as you look at the label is how willing the manufacturer is to disclose what's in it. "Domestic cleaning products are poorly regulated, so accountability is vital," says Gardner. "If the maker voluntarily lists all the ingredients, it's more likely to be a safer product."

The label will also tell you where the item was made. Buying a product that is manufactured in Australia means you avoid the carbon emissions generated by bringing in imported goods.

Now, what about the packaging? Before you buy, check whether the container can be recycled. Better still, see if it can be refilled, so you minimise packaging waste down the track. Consider, too, whether the product inside is greywater-friendly, if you plan on reusing the water.

"Another thing to look for is certification from Good Environmental Choice Australia," says Gardner. "This organisation conducts independent assessments, and you'll find a couple of cleaning products in the supermarket that get the tick of approval from GECA."

If you're still unsure about which product to buy, you might like to consider buying a microfibre cleaning cloth. "Microfibre is a valid alternative," says Gardner. "You're cleaning with just water, and the fibres can remove dirt effectively."