🚫 The Truth About “Greenwashed” Products

What Brands Aren’t Telling You (and How to Shop Smarter)

We’ve all been there: You’re in the store or scrolling online and spot a product with soft green packaging, leaves on the label, and words like “natural,” “pure,” or “eco-friendly.” You feel good dropping it in your cart—because it looks like the better choice.

But what if it’s not?

Welcome to the world of greenwashing—where brands market themselves as sustainable, clean, or non-toxic without actually walking the talk. And if you care about your health, your home, and the planet, it’s something you need to understand.

At Salt + Sage Co., we believe in transparency. So let’s break down what greenwashing is, why it’s a problem, and how you can protect yourself from falling for it.

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🌿 What Is Greenwashing?

Greenwashing is when companies use misleading or vague claims to make their products seem more eco-friendly or non-toxic than they really are. Think of it like putting a pretty green bow on a toxic product and hoping no one reads the fine print.

Common greenwashing tactics include:

• Buzzwords like “natural,” “clean,” “plant-based,” or “chemical-free” (with no definitions or standards behind them)

• Green-colored packaging that looks eco-conscious

• Highlighting one “hero” ingredient while hiding others

• Using recycled plastic claims but still selling single-use, non-recyclable items

  
  

🛑 If a product sounds clean but doesn’t show proof—it may be greenwashed.

🔍 Why It’s a Problem

Greenwashing creates confusion and false trust. People trying to make healthier choices often end up buying products that still contain:

• Harsh preservatives

• Endocrine disruptors

• Non-recyclable packaging

• Harmful surfactants or petrochemicals

In short, you’re paying for peace of mind—and getting poison in disguise.

✅ How to Spot the Real Thing

Want to shop smarter? Here’s what to look for instead of flashy buzzwords:

1. Read the label (not just the front) Flip the product over. If there’s no full ingredient list that’s a red flag.

2. Look for certifications—but stay informed. While seals like USDA Organic, EWG Verified, and Leaping Bunny are helpful, some logos are self-made and mean nothing. Do your homework.

3. Research the company. Real clean brands are transparent. They’ll tell you:

• Where their ingredients come from

• Why they choose glass over plastic

• What they avoid and why

  
  

4. Check the packaging, Is it truly sustainable? Is it refillable, recyclable, or made from glass?

5. Follow your gut, If a product feels vague or intentionally confusing—it probably is.

🧼 What We Do Differently at Salt + Sage Co.

We’re not here to slap “clean” on a label and call it a day.

✅ We never use parabens, phthalates, or known irritants✅ We use glass containers, not plastic, to reduce waste and protect your health✅ We list our full ingredients clearly—no hidden nasties✅ We keep our formulas simple, effective, and rooted in real toxic free goodness ✅ We offer sustainable refills to reduce waste and promote reuse of our containers. ✅ We’re a small business that actually cares, not a corporation looking to ride the clean beauty trend

Because when it comes to your health and home, you deserve the truth—not a green marketing campaign.

🌱 Bottom Line

Greenwashing is everywhere—but that doesn’t mean you have to fall for it. The more you learn, the more empowered you are to shop consciously and confidently.

Ask questions. Read the labels. Support brands that walk the walk.

And next time you see something claiming to be “clean,” pause and dig a little deeper. Your body—and the planet—will thank you.

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