Hiding in Plain Sight: Dangers Lurking in Conventional Cleaning Products
Maintaining a clean and healthy home is a top priority for many of us. However, the products we commonly reach for may not be as “clean” as we think they are. Conventional home cleaners, while effective, can pose risks to both our health and the environment. Let’s delve into some of the dangers associated with these cleaners!
Health Risks
1. Indoor Air Pollution: A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that the use of common household cleaning products can contribute to indoor air pollution. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), often present in these cleaners (and anything with added fragrance), can release harmful gasses into the air we breathe, causing respiratory problems, exacerbating conditions like asthma, and simply contributing to your toxic burden. In many ways, we are a human experiment when it comes to VOCs. We don’t fully know the extent of the damage they cause yet. There is still so much to be said about VOCs that it deserves its own blog post!
2. Allergies and Skin Irritation: Research conducted by the American Thoracic Society revealed a link between the use of cleaning products and an increased risk of developing allergies and respiratory issues. Harsh chemicals present in conventional cleaners can also lead to skin irritation. Cough cough… sodium lauryl sulfate (the eczema sufferers know!)
3. Endocrine Disruption: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified various cleaning products containing chemicals known as endocrine disruptors. These compounds interfere with the body's hormonal system and have been associated with developmental, reproductive, and immune system disorders.
Environmental Impact
1. Water Contamination: A study from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that many cleaning agents, when washed down the drain, can end up in our water systems. These chemicals can harm aquatic life and disrupt delicate ecosystems.
Here’s the thing… The three letter agencies always have “recommendations” of what the proper dilution of these products are “safe.” The concentration in their actual product may be low, but think about how many different products you use in a day that contain a small amount of -insert toxic chemical here- it really adds up over time!
Safer Alternatives
So what can we do? Thankfully, Mother Nature has provided so many options to clean naturally and safely!
1. DIY Cleaners: Simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be combined to create effective and safer cleaning solutions. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used as a disinfectant.
2. Non-Toxic Brands: If you’re not keen on making your own cleaners, you may be interested in purchasing a non-toxic cleaning solution from reputable brands. Be sure you thoroughly read the labels and don’t become victim to greenwashing! “Greenwashing,” is when companies label a product to make you think it is a safe product by using words like “natural,” “green,” “eco-friendly.” These terms are not regulated and anyone can use them! Make sure you are actually reading the ingredients labels and don’t fall prey to this marketing ploy!
What We Use:
At Haven Cleaning, we are proud to use Branch Basics as a cleaner and Force of Nature as a disinfectant. We love how clean and effective these products are! This is not sponsored by either company, we just love their products!
Conclusion
While conventional home cleaners might give you the clean you’re looking for, the potential risks they pose to our health and the planet are far from clean. Scientific studies continue to highlight the dangers of using these products, urging us to make more conscious choices when it comes to cleaning our homes. By opting for safer alternatives and supporting non-toxic brands, we can contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
Contact Haven Cleaning today for a home cleaning service without compromise!