Cleaning the house and pampering yourself shouldn’t pollute your home and put your health at risk. Using cleaning or personal care products can be done without poisoning the air you breathe or expose yourself to toxic chemicals. Here are four chemicals to kick out of your house for good.
4 toxic products to banish from your home
Chemical cleaning products: It’s a bit ironic to actually contaminate the air we breathe when using harsh products to “clean” our homes? Many commercial brands contains harsh chemicals that are known carcinogens, can trigger asthmatic attacks and cause terrible damage to children who come into contact with them. Always choose true eco-friendly products that have simple, natural ingredients.
Synthetic fragrances: Perfume and fragrances are widely used in household and personal products, even those who claim to be eco-friendly and natural. We find them in laundry detergent, fabric softeners, air fresheners, deodorizers, shampoos, hair care products, gels, lotions, creams, soaps, perfumes, etc. The name fragrance or perfume on the ingredient list can be a cover for hundreds of chemicals that are known to increase cancer risks, disrupt the endocrine and reproductive systems even at low levels. Always choose unscented product or products scented only with natural essential oils. Make sure to read the ingredient list completely as some natural products can contain a mix of natural essential oils and chemical fragrances.
Hand sanitizer and antibacterial soap: Most antibacterial products contain the antimicrobial chemical named triclosan, a substance that could disrupt thyroid function and hormone levels. On top of that, the overuse of antibacterial products could promote the growth of superbugs, bacteria that are resistant to antibacterial treatment.
Mainstream make-up and cosmetic brands: Beauty products like lipstick, mascara, eye shadow, beauty creams, hair care products and other personal care products often contain dozens of chemicals that can put your health at risk. Mineral oils, parabens, phtalates, polypropylene, formaldehyde and dimethicone are just a few of the commonly used ingredients that are known be neurotoxic, to increase cancer risks and disrupt endocrine and hormonal systems. Always read the ingredient list as some of those toxic products can even find their way in baby products!