Create a Healthier Household: Common Ingredients to Avoid for a Safer Home
In this guide, we’ll walk through common but toxic ingredients found in household cleaning products. Check the back of your bottles or ask your house cleaner what they use and if you see any of these ingredients it might be time to choose a safer alternative.
Fragrance
One of the most common ingredients in cleaning products, fragrances can be a hidden source of harmful chemicals. The term “fragrance” can refer to a mixture of hundreds of chemicals, some of which are known to cause skin irritation, allergies, headaches, and hormone disruption. For a safer option, choose fragrance-free or naturally scented cleaning products that avoid synthetic fragrances.
Ammonia
Ammonia, commonly found in glass cleaners and household user-cleaning solution, can irritate the respiratory system and the eyes. Prolonged exposure can result in chronic lung disease and asthma.
Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)
Chlorine bleach, which is used commonly in antiseptics and laundry bleach, can release deadly fumes that are toxic to the lungs and skin. If combined with other chemicals, it can generate toxic byproducts, e.g., dioxins, that are carcinogenic.
Phthalates
These chemical compounds are commonly incorporated into air fresheners, scented cleaners, and, in some cases, into disinfectants. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors that could disrupt hormone function and therefore influence the development and reproduction.
2-Butoxyethanol
A common solvent in all-purpose and glass cleaners, 2-butoxyethanol is toxic via headaches, nausea and hepatic/renal damage at high concentrations. It may also cause skin and eye irritation.
Triclosan
In antibacterial agents such as, some cleaning products, triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance and is not a good option for a healthier home.
Formaldehyde
A cosurroundant in some disinfectants and wipes, formaldehyde is a confirmed carcinogen and skin, eye and respiratory irritant. Chronic exposure can result in chronic diseases, such as cancer.
At The Greener Cleaner, we are committed to providing safe and healthy cleaning solutions. That’s why we proudly use Simply Clean products which are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients that are free from harmful chemicals like ammonia, bleach, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.