No one wants to live near a toxic waste dump. However many people have one underneath their kitchen sink.
Commercial cleaning products are full of chemicals that can cause serious health problems. They include laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners, dishwashing soaps, and floor cleaners.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG), analyzed thousands of cleaning products and found many of them are linked to:
- Cancer: Some brand-name cleaning products are laced with 1,4-doxane. It’s a proven carcinogen. Others have preservatives that release formaldehyde, another cancer-causer.
- Birth defects: Women who have cleaning jobs that expose them to chemical products have an elevated risk of having children with birth defects, according to a study by the New York State Department of Health.
- Asthma: Multiple studies show fumes from cleaning supplies can lead to asthma and other breathing problems. The EWG found that 53% of commercial cleaning products have ingredients known to the harm the lungs.
- Allergies: The EWG found many cleaners are full of chemicals that trigger allergies. Some of these reactions are so severe they send people to the hospital.
- Hormone problems: Sodium borate (borax) is added to many products as a cleaning agent. It can disrupt the hormone system and is linked to lower sperm count in men.
How can you protect yourself and your family? Look for products with the Green Seal or EcoLogo labels. These designations mean products use non-toxic ingredients that do not threaten health and are environmentally friendly.
Here Are Two Cleaners You Can Make At Home Yourself
Glass Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup white or cider vinegar
- ¼ cup rubbing alcohol
Combine ingredients and store in a spray bottle. Spray on a paper towel or soft cloth, then wipe glass.
Bathroom Mildew Cleaner
- ½ cup hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- 1 cup water
Pour into spray bottle. Spray onto bathroom mold and wait one hour. Rinse.
