In today’s world, it seems like we can’t go a day without hearing about the harmful effects of chemicals. There are many chemicals and unnatural substances in most cleaning products that can harm the environment and our bodies. Let’s explore what we’re inhaling and absorbing when we clean our home with these toxic products!
Bleach
The negative effect of cleaning with bleach is that it damages the natural cycle of microbes and bacteria to break down substances, leading to a build-up in colonies. Bleach also leaves behind a residue that can end up on your hands or clothes without you even knowing it. The chemical compound found in bleach is called sodium hypochlorite, which can cause health risks for humans. This chemical is of particular concern as it contains chlorine, a disinfectant that the United States Environmental Protection Agency has classified as hazardous if inhaled over a long period of time.
Ammonia
Another chemical found in many cleaning products is ammonia. While it has a strong smell and is an effective cleanser, ammonia also poses risks to both the environment and humans. Ammonia can cause irritation at the site of contact with the eyes or skin and respiratory tract inflammation if inhaled. It can be very toxic to aquatic organisms and birds at low concentrations, meaning that it could poison animals who come into contact with water contaminated by such chemicals. When broken down (which can take 1-3 days), ammonia becomes nitrates linked to certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer for those under 50 years old.
Mold And Mildew Removal
Many cleaning products contain chemicals that kill mold and mildew. Unfortunately, the harmfulness of these chemicals outweighs their benefits since they can cause asthma-like symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or throat, and fatigue. Additionally, many people choose cleaning products scented with fragrance additives to mask any unpleasant odors left by chemicals after cleaning. However, these scents are linked to headaches and migraines for some individuals.
Oven Cleaner
Many oven cleaners contain lye (sodium hydroxide) which is extremely corrosive. This chemical is very dangerous in its dry form, so when combined with water, it becomes even hazardous due to heat released during the reaction. Sodium hydroxide can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, leading to shortness of breath if inhaled. Exposure to this chemical in larger quantities has also been linked with cancer. Avoid purchasing oven cleaners altogether or at least use them only outside of the home.
Dish Washing Soap
This common household ingredient is certainly not without its risks. Dishwashing soap cuts grease on dishes by causing oils to bond with water. However, when water evaporates after washing, the oil remains. This residue coats your sink, allowing for bacteria growth when moisture accumulates under these layers of dirt, resulting in harmful mold and mildew growth—which will make you even more prone to respiratory issues since it spreads easily through the air. Your skin can also absorb dishwashing soap which can contribute to cancer, infertility, and nerve damage for larger exposures over a long period of time.
