House of TOXINS

What Could Be Lurking In Your Cleaning Products And Putting Your Health In Jeopardy

BY IVEY LEIDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN COE

For most of us, our homes are our sanctuaries, a space where we feel safest and most comfortable. We take pride in decorating and keeping them clean and tidy, but what we might not realize is that the typical home’s air quality may be up to five times more polluted than the air outdoors, according to studies conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Considering that the average American spends roughly 90 percent of their time inside, taking a good look at what affects our indoor air quality can have a huge impact on our health and well-being.

Ironically, what we use to clean our homes are often top culprits. Ever notice yourself holding your breath as you spray an oven or counter cleaner because it irritates your eyes or causes headaches? It could be doing far more with chronic exposure. The chemicals commonly found in our cleaning products, detergents, and personal care items not only cause direct irritation, but they can also exacerbate allergies, asthma, reproductive and developmental issues, autoimmune diseases, neurological damage, and hormone disruption. Furthermore, just because something claims to be natural, clean, green, or biodegradable does not mean it’s nontoxic. Many brands engage in “greenwashing,” the act of marketing something as environmentally sensitive without following through on those promises. Studies have shown that up to 95 percent of so-called “green” products contain toxic ingredients; this can happen because there’s a huge gray area in which manufacturers don’t have to disclose certain ingredients. For example, the term “fragrance” can cover a vast array of potentially harmful chemicals.

Read on to discover some of the top toxic ingredients and recipes for cleaner swaps.

Top 10 Offenders

Phthalates: Found in most “fragrances.” Instead opt for unscented, fragrance-free, or products scented with essential oils.

Ammonia: Found in glass cleaners, stainless-steel polish, floor cleaners, and cleaning sprays.

Chlorine: Found in bleach, toilet cleaners, and shower cleaners.

Sodium hydroxide: Found in oven and drain cleaners.

Perchloroethylene (PERC): Found in dry-cleaning products and stain removers.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Common sources include bleach, laundry and dishwashing detergents, disinfectant sprays, and paint.

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Used in nonstick cookware as well as Scotchgard.

Triclosan: Found in antibacterial soaps and detergents as well as toothpaste.

Quaternary ammonium compounds (Quats): Found in disinfectant wipes, sprays, sanitizers, and dryer sheets. For an alternative to dryer sheets, try wool dryer balls.

2-butoxyethanol: Found in allpurpose spray cleaners.

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