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Embracing Clean Living: A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for a Healthier Home

Embracing Clean Living: A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for a Healthier Home

We’ve been conditioned to link the scent of strong chemicals with a clean living space. For many, the idea of a thoroughly cleaned home often involves the use of bleach, harsh chemicals, or chlorine-based products on every conceivable surface. However, the truth is that non-toxic cleaning products prove to be just as effective as their conventional, toxic counterparts!

The shocking reality unfolds when we uncover the numerous toxic ingredients and harsh chemicals lurking in the everyday products we trust in our homes. On a daily basis, we unwittingly expose ourselves to hundreds of these toxins through ingestion, absorption, and inhalation. Every substance that comes into contact with our bodies significantly impacts our health, with a mere 27 seconds being all it takes for a product applied to the skin to enter the bloodstream.

Surprisingly, manufacturers have substantial leeway in concealing the dangers posed by their products. With the growing consumer awareness of the products used in homes, companies are adapting their marketing strategies, employing terms like “natural,” “good for you,” and “non-toxic.” However, the unfortunate truth is that these words often hold little substance, as there are no regulations governing the language or tactics a company can employ to promote their products.

The disconcerting reality of permitting these toxins into our everyday products underscores the need for better regulation. Consequently, the responsibility falls on us to discern what is healthful, what is harmful, and what choices are safe for use in our homes. This guide to non-toxic cleaning products is crafted to empower you to make informed decisions about the cleaning products you incorporate into your daily home maintenance routine.

While this guide is not exhaustive, it sheds light on toxic ingredients that should undoubtedly be avoided in your cleaning products.

Toxic ingredients to look for:

  • Ammonia: Found in glass and bathroom cleaners, ammonia can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
  • Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite): Commonly used as a disinfectant, bleach can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation. It can also react with other chemicals to form potentially harmful byproducts.
  • Phthalates: Often found in fragranced products, phthalates can disrupt the endocrine system and may be linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
  • 2-Butoxyethanol (Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether): Present in some window and kitchen cleaners, this solvent can contribute to respiratory and skin problems.
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): Commonly used in disinfectant products, quats may contribute to respiratory issues and can cause skin irritation.
  • Triclosan: Often used in antibacterial products, triclosan has been associated with endocrine disruption and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
  • Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): Found in some oven and drain cleaners, sodium hydroxide is a strong alkaline substance that can cause severe burns and eye damage.
  • Petroleum-Based Solvents: These can be found in some furniture and carpet cleaners and may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to indoor air pollution.
  • Chlorine: Present in some scouring powders and toilet bowl cleaners, chlorine can release harmful fumes and may react with other substances to form potentially toxic compounds.
  • Perchloroethylene (PERC): Found in some spot removers and carpet cleaners, PERC is a solvent that has been linked to respiratory and neurological issues.
  • Formaldehyde: Found in some air fresheners and fabric softeners, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause respiratory irritation.
  • Ammonium Quaternary Compounds (Quats): Similar to quats mentioned earlier, these compounds are found in many disinfectant and fabric softener products and may cause respiratory issues.
  • Artificial Fragrances: The term “fragrance” on ingredient lists may include a mixture of undisclosed chemicals that can be irritants or allergens. Opt for products with natural fragrances or those labeled as fragrance-free.
  • Chlorine Bleach: While bleach was mentioned earlier, chlorine bleach specifically can release toxic fumes and may react with other substances to form harmful compounds.
  • Methylisothiazolinone (MIT): Found in some cleaning wipes and liquid detergents, MIT can cause skin irritation and has been associated with allergic reactions.
  • Butyl Cellosolve (Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Acetate): A solvent found in some window and kitchen cleaners, it may contribute to respiratory and skin problems.
  • Aerosol Propellants: Some spray cleaners contain propellants that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to indoor air pollution.
  • Ethanolamine: Found in some all-purpose cleaners, this chemical can irritate the eyes and skin and may contribute to respiratory issues.
  • Synthetic Dyes: Dyes used in cleaning products may contain harmful chemicals and can be problematic for individuals with sensitivities.
  • Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEs): These surfactants, found in some laundry detergents and all-purpose cleaners, can break down into compounds that may be harmful to aquatic life and can disrupt hormone function.
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): These surfactants, commonly found in soaps and detergents, can cause skin and eye irritation and may be contaminated with other harmful substances.
  • Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): Used in various cleaning products, PEGs can be contaminated with harmful impurities such as 1,4-dioxane, which is a known carcinogen.
  • Trisodium Phosphate (TSP): Found in some heavy-duty cleaners, TSP can be corrosive and may cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
  • Methylene Chloride (Dichloromethane): Found in some paint strippers and adhesive removers, methylene chloride is a volatile chemical that poses health risks, including respiratory and neurological effects.
  • Naphthalene: Sometimes found in mothballs and deodorizers, naphthalene exposure can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and is a possible carcinogen.
  • Hexane: Found in some spot removers and degreasers, hexane is a neurotoxic solvent that may lead to dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
  • Perfumes and Synthetic Fragrances: The chemicals used in fragrances can be irritating and may contain phthalates, which have been associated with adverse health effects.
  • Dyes: Synthetic dyes in cleaners can be derived from petrochemicals and may contribute to skin irritation and allergies.
  • Benzalkonium Chloride: A disinfectant often found in antibacterial wipes and cleaners, benzalkonium chloride can be an irritant and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
  • Sulfuric Acid: Found in some drain cleaners and toilet bowl cleaners, sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns if not handled properly.


TRANSITIONING TO NON-TOXIC CLEANING PRODUCTS: A PRACTICAL GUIDE Embarking on the journey to adopt natural cleaning products can sometimes be a daunting task. The process of scrutinizing labels might feel overwhelming, and deciphering the authenticity of product claims can be challenging. My foremost piece of advice is to meticulously examine the ingredient list of each product. Simply because a brand offers a non-toxic all-purpose cleaner does not guarantee the safety of other products within the same line. Approach each product individually rather than relying on the reputation of a brand. This guide is crafted to alleviate the sense of overwhelm, providing you with a consolidated list of non-toxic cleaning products to reference whenever needed.

I use The Environmental Working Group Website and App  to check the ingredients in my products. Be sure to research any questionable ingredients or ratings yourself.

NON-TOXIC CLEANING PRODUCTS

All-Purpose Cleaner

Multi-Surface Wipes

Dusting Products

Floor Cleaner

I recommend you use a spray mop with a diluted amount of all-purpose concentrate.

Glass Cleaner

Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Stainless Steel Cleaner

  • E-Cloth Stainless Towel
  • I use a small amount of dish soap on a soft cloth and moisten it with a modest amount of water. Wipe along the grain of your appliances. Next, dry the appliances with a soft cloth. Lastly, dab a few drops of baby oil onto a soft cloth. Wipe along the grain, moving in either direction. This will give your appliances a nice polish!
ALL THINGS DISHES

Dish Brushes

Dishwashing Soap

Dishwasher Detergent

AIR FRESHENERS

Scented candles, aerosols, plug-ins, gels, and incense sticks are full of toxic chemicals. I wanted to share this post from Wellness Mama where you can read more.

  • Diffusers with 100% Pure Essential Oils
  • Clean Candles: Look for soy melts with essential oils as the scent.
  • Make Your Own Room Spray
    • 1 oz of Vodka
    • Splash of Mexican Clear Vanilla
    • Essential oils of choice
    • 7 oz of Water

Laundry Essentials

LAUNDRY MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
  • Branch Basics Oxygen Boost – Bleach alternative
  • White Vinegar – Fabric softener replacement and no your clothes won’t smell like vinegar!
  • Wool Dryer Balls – Dryer sheets are one of the most toxic things within the home, so try dryer balls scented with 100% pure essential oils.
  • Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Remover
  • Puracy Free & Clear Stain Remover

Hand Soap

MISCELLANEOUS CLEANING ITEMS & HACKS


Embrace a gradual shift and exercise patience as you embark on the path to a healthier lifestyle. Whether you choose to swap out products room by room or even opt for a gradual replacement of one product at a time, remember that progress, regardless of its pace, leads to the same destination. While the journey may take a bit longer, that’s perfectly fine. This process is about extending grace to yourself and navigating at a pace that feels comfortable, ensuring you don’t become overwhelmed.

In conclusion, my sincere hope is that this guide to non-toxic cleaning products serves as a supportive companion throughout your journey towards a healthier way of living. You’ve got this, dear friends!

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