Cleaning Products: The Stuff That Might Also Do Some Harm

There is genuine irony in the fact that cleaning products are some of the most chemically complex products in most homes.

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By NonToxicLife  ·   ·  Non-Toxic Home

Conventional cleaning products in the US are not required to list all ingredients on the label. Many products just say "contains surfactants" or "cleaning agents" without specifying what those are.

Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are the active antimicrobial ingredients in most disinfectant sprays and wipes. They can cause respiratory irritation and asthma in people who are regularly exposed in poorly ventilated spaces. Some animal studies have found reproductive effects at higher concentrations.

Chlorine bleach is one of the most common cleaning ingredients in American households. Bleach itself is relatively simple, but mixing bleach with other cleaning products can create toxic gases. Bleach plus ammonia creates chloramine vapor. Bleach plus acids like vinegar creates chlorine gas. Both are hazardous.

Synthetic fragrances in cleaning products add VOCs to indoor air. Air fresheners, scented candles, and "fresh scent" cleaning products are major contributors to indoor VOC levels. Some fragranced cleaning products contain phthalates as part of their fragrance formula, which are endocrine disruptors not required to be disclosed on the label.

Cleaner Alternatives That Work

Branch Basics

One plant-based concentrate that replaces all household cleaners. They publish their full ingredient list.

Visit Branch Basics

Seventh Generation

Widely available at most grocery stores, discloses all ingredients, certified by EPA Safer Choice.

Visit Seventh Generation

Blueland

Tablet-based system, no plastic bottles, clean formulas.

Visit Blueland
Simple DIY: white vinegar diluted with water for most hard surfaces, baking soda for scrubbing, castile soap for general cleaning. Effective and inexpensive.

References

  1. Quaternary ammonium compounds and respiratory health: occupational study
  2. Indoor air quality and cleaning product VOCs: EPA

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