Cleaning product labels often lack transparency of their ingredients, which doesn’t really allow people the chance to make informed decisions on which ones are safer, or which might harm them.
Common cleaning ingredients can contain carcinogenic ingredients or preservatives that release low levels of cancer-causing formaldehyde.
Manufacturers argue that in small amounts these toxic ingredients aren’t likely to be a problem, but when we’re exposed to them daily or weekly, and in combinations that haven’t been studied, it’s impossible to accurately gauge the different problems that can develop from repeated contact. Repeated exposure over time, adds to the body’s “toxic burden” (the number of chemicals stored in it’s tissues).
Although exposure to many of these toxic chemicals occur through inhalation, it can also happen through skin contact. Unlike the digestive system, the skin has no safeguards against toxins. Absorbed chemicals go straight to organs.
The reality is, we live in a toxic world and no one can FULLY avoid exposure to toxic chemicals 100%. However, it IS possible to reduce our exposure significantly, by paying attention to our product labels and switching up our products accordingly.
CHEAT SHEET: Avoid anything labeled “frangrance” or “parfum”
Because of proprietary laws, companies don’t have to disclose what’s in their scents, so they can label a number of toxins under the word “fragrance”.
Below are some toxic chemicals to look out for and some safer options to swap for:
Phthalates
Commonly found in: dish soap, air fresheners
Health Risks: Known endocrine disruptor. Possible Migraine & Asthma triggers.
Healthier Option: When possible, opt for fragrance-free or all-natural organic products.
AVOID plug-in air fresheners. Instead use essential oils in a small diffuser for your home.
ADD more plants to your home (natural air detoxifiers)
Triclosan
Commonly found in: Liquid dishwashing detergents, antibacterial soaps.
Health Risks: Probable carcinogen.
Healthier Option: Opt for detergents & soaps with minimal ingredient lists
AVOID antibacterial products with triclosan
For anti-bacterial hand sanitizers: choose those that are alcohol-based
Perchloroethylene (PERC)
Commonly found in: Dry-cleaning solutions, carpet/upholstery cleaners.
Health Risks: Possible carcinogen, neurotoxin (a poison which acts on the nervous system)
Healthier Option: Items labeled “dry clean only” can instead be taken to a “wet cleaner” where they use water-based technology instead of chemical solvents. Ask your dry-cleaner if they offer this option.
DITCH chemical filled spot removers, and rub some undiluted castile soap directly on stains before washing.
Chlorine
Commonly found in: Toilet bowl cleaners, laundry whiteners, tap water, scrubbing powders
Health Risks: Respiratory irritant, possible thyroid disrupter.
Healthier Options:
For toilet bowls: Use vinegar, and add baking powder for whitening. (I use Branch basics, see below)
For reducing chlorine exposure through tap water: install filters on your kitchen sink & in the shower. Filter your drinking water (I use a Berkey Filter)
Scrubbing Agent: water with baking soda.
2-Butoxyethanol
Commonly found in: Kitchen & multipurpose cleaners, window cleaners.
