Today we're talking green—go figure. There are lots of ways you can be environmentally conscious and save money at the same time.

Perhaps you've heard on the news that cleaning with environmentally safe, green products is doing your home and the environment a good thing. Green products are biodegradable, non-carbon based solutions that do not adversely impact our environment, and are safer for you and your kids. Many of the products have a neutral pH and no odor.

Just because the product says green doesn't mean it is. According to the Consumer Specialty Products Association, traditional cleaning products are subjected to elaborate and extensive testing to ensure that they are both safe and compatible with the environment. Unfortunately, this is no guarantee that the product is safe for you or your surroundings.

Be conscious of misrepresentations by marketing firms. The green moniker sells these days and chummed water will make the sharks circle. Advertisers and companies have pumped billions into their marketing campaigns to promote their environmentally-friendly products to consumers. So who to trust?

The Green Seal Standard is a benchmark set by a not-for-profit, government-regulated company that endorses neutral effect products. Jonathan Wels of DEC Green advises looking for Green Seal products that are waterborne, non-toxic and pH neutral, containing no harmful solvents or volatile compounds. Look for the Green Seal to maximize your green experience, and maintain a clean and environmentally conscious household.