Mean and Green

One thing's for certain about modern-day housecleaning--everybody's got a different definition of clean. Some like antiseptic smells, blue-dyed solutions and "new chemical breakthroughs." Others prefer the aroma of natural fruits and spices, and the simplicity of lemon juice and baking soda.

There are products that appeal to every sense and sensibility. Now add to this already over-crowded supermarket aisle over 700 products laden with antibacterial agents, which a germ-anxious public has recently sent flying off the shelves. Even the conservative American Medical Association has expressed concern that these agents may contribute to the spread of newer and stronger forms of dangerous bacteria-born disease, like Salmonella and E. coli.

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