ARLINGTON Angie Drake enjoyed cleaning houses and wanted to do her part to help the environment, so Eco-Cleaning seemed like a natural way to bring those interests together.
Drake started Eco-Cleaning house cleaning services two months ago, after spending enough time as a business consultant in the corporate world that she felt ready for a change of pace.
It didnt feel right, Drake said. I wasnt sleeping well at night because I didnt want to have a negative impact on the world.
Drake had been concerned with environmental issues since childhood, and was already doing house-cleaning as a side business when she decided there was a market in Arlington for cleaning services and products that are all-natural, non-toxic and safe for both children and pets, as well as the ecosystem.
I love the smell and the cleanliness of it, Drake said. Industrial housecleaners can contain a lot of dangerous chemicals, but all the cleaners I use are hypoallergenic, with no phosphates or fumes. Seventh Generation is one of my favorite manufacturers to use because from the cap to the bottom of the bottle, theres no chlorine and its all post-consumer plastic with no animal testing.
Drake likewise praised the wood cleaners she used for being plant-based and 100 percent biodegradable.
When I clean houses, I like to do a really deep cleaning, Drake said. After they get their first cleaning for me, most of my clients say they dont want to clean their own houses again. I have a minors work permit for my daughter to go with me and were very picky about how this work is done.
Drake not only performs housecleaning, she also sells cleaning products to her customers.
I know some of these products can be hard to find, Drake said. Theres enough work involved in researching these types of products that its not always convenient.
Drake prefers to focus on the Arlington area, so that she can connect with customers in her own community. Shes quick to cite the details that she believes make a difference.
The Sarvey Wildlife Center is one of my clients, Drake said. I learned from them that most pets have a favorite window and you can tell which one it is because it has lick-marks on it. You can feel good that the glass cleaner I use will be safe for them.
Drake gives discounts to elderly clients and plans to offer the businesses on Olympic Avenue a special, after street construction is completed. For more information about Eco-Cleaning, call them at 425-345-7836 or log onto their Web site at www.iwant2gogreen.com.