Yes, Another Blog About Non-toxic Cleaning
The dangers of toxic cleaning products and a comprehensive list of ingredients to avoid
Cleaning your home is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment, but many conventional cleaning products can be harmful. Toxic ingredients in these products pose significant health risks and can negatively impact your immediate surroundings. When you include them in your home, they can subliminally affect you and your loved ones.
Common toxic ingredients in cleaning products include:
Ammonia
Found in: Glass cleaners, multi-surface cleaners
Health Risks: Respiratory issues, skin irritation, and eye irritation
Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)
Found in: Disinfectants, laundry whiteners, toilet bowl cleaners
Health Risks: Respiratory problems, skin burns, and eye irritation
Phthalates
Found in: Fragranced cleaners, air fresheners
Health Risks: Hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and developmental problems
Triclosan
Found in: Antibacterial cleaners, hand soaps
Health Risks: Hormonal effects, antibiotic resistance, and skin irritation
2-Butoxyethanol
Found in: Degreasers, window cleaners
Health Risks: Headaches, respiratory issues, and liver and kidney damage
Sodium Hydroxide (Lye)
Found in: Oven cleaners, drain openers
Health Risks: Severe burns, respiratory issues, and eye irritation
Formaldehyde
Found in: Disinfectants, air fresheners
Health Risks: Respiratory issues, skin irritation, and carcinogenic effects
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)
Found in: Disinfectant sprays, fabric softeners
Health Risks: Respiratory issues, skin irritation, and asthma triggers
Perchloroethylene (PERC)
Found in: Dry-cleaning solutions, spot removers
Health Risks: Dizziness, headaches, respiratory issues, and potential carcinogen
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Found in: Detergents, cleaning sprays
Health Risks: Skin irritation, eye irritation, and potential for forming carcinogenic compounds
Synthetic Fragrances
Found in: A wide range of cleaning products
Health Risks: Allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and hormone disruption
Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)
Found in: Laundry detergents, all-purpose cleaners
Health Risks: Hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and environmental toxicity
Monoethanolamine (MEA), Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA)
Found in: All-purpose cleaners, degreasers
Health Risks: Respiratory issues, skin irritation, and potential for forming carcinogenic compounds
These chemicals don't just disappear after use; they linger in the air and on surfaces, contributing to indoor air pollution. This can be especially dangerous for children and pets, who are more susceptible to the harmful effects due to their smaller size and higher exposure levels.
Switching to non-toxic cleaning products is a safer and more sustainable choice. Natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils effectively clean and disinfect without harmful side effects. These alternatives reduce health risks and are environmentally friendly, minimizing the chemical load released into ecosystems.
Protect your health and the health of your family by making the switch to non-toxic cleaners. Shop our Amazon storefront for brands we love and trust!