The Dangers of Using Chemical-Based Cleaning Products

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Ensuring that our homes and lifestyles remain toxin-free isn’t always an easy process.

Whether you’re researching new toxin-free makeup supplies or reading up on which food items to keep in your pantry, it takes time and attention to remain aware of dangerous chemicals.

That said, considering that we come in contact with an average of 100 chemicals every day, it’s certainly a worthwhile endeavor.

With so many products on the market that contain unregulated chemicals, it’s up to us to protect ourselves and our families.

And it’s all a matter of taking things one step at a time.

When it comes to keeping your home free of dirt, dust, germs, and grease, there are many products on the market to make the task of cleaning easier.

But oftentimes, they’re chock-full of hazardous chemicals that wreak havoc in our bodies.

According to Precise Nutrition, companies in the United States that manufacture cleaning products are allowed to use almost any ingredient or raw material in their product formulations without government review or approval.

The result, as Environmental Working Group reports, is that the air inside our homes is two to five times more polluted than the air outside.

This is concerning, considering that there are a range of short- and long-term health side effects associated with chemical exposure.

Read on to learn about four negative effects of using common household cleaning supplies, and discover nontoxic alternatives to keep your mind at ease.

#1: Respiratory Irritation

Many common household cleaning products release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which contribute to allergic reactions and respiratory irritation.

In fact, Healthline reports that “the chemicals in household cleaning products can damage your lungs as much as smoking cigarettes.”

With facts like that, it’s no wonder that constant exposure to cleaning products has been linked to higher asthma rates.

To avoid respiratory irritation and illness, avoid cleaning products that use artificial fragrances and opt for natural products.

For example, Aunt Fannie’s Cleaning Vinegar is a multipurpose, nontoxic cleaning spray that can be used for a variety of surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom, and more. 

Made with essential oils and food-based ingredients, this spray doesn’t tamper with the natural microbiome of your home, and you won’t have to worry about respiratory issues.

As a bonus, it was awarded the highest health & safety rating for cleaning products by the Environmental Working Group.

Add it to your collection of supplies today!

#2: Cancer

A quick Google search will provide you with endless studies linking household cleaners with cancer.

For example, a 2010 study found that the use of household cleaning products which contain carcinogenic substances such as methylene chloride have been linked to breast cancer. 

Aerosol sprays are often found to be a culprit behind these increased incidences of cancer.

This doesn’t mean you should give up on adding pleasurable scents to your home.

Fortunately, there are healthy alternatives, such as the Air Scense Vanilla Air Freshener. 

Rather than using artificially-produced fragrances, this spray naturally refreshes and neutralizes the air in your home with essential oils.

Try it out for yourself--buy now!

#3: Skin Burns

Ethanolamines, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, and sodium or potassium hydroxide are common chemical ingredients found in toilet cleaners, oven cleaners, or heavy-duty degreasers.

In addition to blindness and lung irritation, these chemicals can cause skin burns.

Don’t risk the potential damage these products can do to your or your loved ones’ bodies.

Better Life’s Toilet Bowl Cleaner is a great alternative if you’re looking for an option free from ethanolamines and other toxic chemicals.

Add it to your collection of supplies today--shop now!

#4: Hormone Disruption

It’s scary to think that the clothes we wear may have long-term damaging effects, simply because of the laundry detergent we use to wash them.

If you’re using a laundry detergent that contains a cleaning agent such as nonylphenol ethoxylate, or NPE, you may be at risk for a variety of health issues, including hormone disruption.

As an alternative, consider using Biokleen’s Free & Clear Laundry Liquid, which is free of dyes and fragrances and uses a plant-based cleaning agent rather than nonylphenol ethoxylate, or NPE.

Give this toxin-free laundry liquid a try--buy now!

If you haven’t already, it’s time to take an honest look at the products you use to clean your home. The risk of using these products, which are largely unregulated, is never worth it.

On the bright side, there are plenty of alternatives that won’t cause a plethora of negative short- and long-term side effects.

Check out additional natural and nontoxic cleaning products we have to offer by clicking here.