Toxic Chemicals in Cleaning Products
The public is just beginning to discover how many chemicals are in common cleaning products. Toxic chemicals are causing a variety of unexpected reactions, which are subjects of many research studies. However, the long-term side effects of these chemicals are still not very well known. This is why experts are now recommending a movement toward non-toxic and natural cleaners as a matter of public health.
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Ingredients
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VOCs or volatile organic compounds are chemicals that break down and release into the air as gases from their solid or liquid state. According to the EPA, indoor concentrations of VOCs tend to be up to 10 times higher than outdoor concentrations, increasing both the short- and long-term side effects of exposure. Chemicals like formaldehyde and chlorofluorocarbons are familiar examples of VOCs. Denatured ethanol, alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, benzene, glycol ethers along with formaldehyde and chlorofluorocarbons are other common ingredients in cleaners, which are essentially a series of pesticides, known carcinogens and neurotoxins.
Ubiquitous
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What most people do not realize is the above chemicals are common ingredients in popular store bought household cleaners including glass, multi-surface and floor cleaners. Commercial products such as spray air fresheners, bathroom cleaners, carpet and upholstery shampoo, laundry detergents, stain removers, kitchen cleaners and even furniture polish all contain toxic chemicals that permeate the normal home. These cleaners are everywhere and can be found in practically every home, which makes the effects of these chemicals all the more concerning.
Exposure
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Exposure to these toxic chemicals has shown a wide variety of short-term effects including "eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination, nausea... allergic skin reaction... fatigue, [and] dizziness" according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA also lists long-term effects to include "damage to the liver, kidney, and center nervous system... can cause cancer in animals; some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans" along with reproductive abnormalities.
Most affected
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Children are the most at-risk group for toxic chemical exposure. This is due to their sensitive and still-developing organ systems along with constant exposure from crawling and putting everything in their mouths. Women are the next most susceptible group due to regular use and application of such products. Pets are also at risk to exposure problems.
Prevention
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When purchasing cleaning products, only select products that have a biodegradable formula labeled as "non-toxic." Cleaners made with a biodegradable formula are best. Some cleaners include essential oils in their formulas, which are generally healthy. They do run the risk of an allergic reaction so know the allergies of those in your household before purchasing such products. Many cleaners also now bear some type of claim to be green, but only those with a "Green Seal" or "Good Housekeeping Green Seal" logo can legitimately makes these claims. A good rule of thumb is if you cannot pronounce the ingredients, you probably should not be using it in your home.
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- Photo Credit colourful spray bottle tops image by Warren Millar from Fotolia.com
