10 Toxins to Avoid

Keeping your home clean and tidy is important, but it's also important to be aware of the potential hazards that some cleaning products can pose. Many common household cleaning products contain toxins that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Here are ten common cleaning household toxins to avoid:

1. Ammonia - This can be found in many glass cleaners and all-purpose cleaners. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation and can be harmful if ingested or mixed with bleach.
   
   

2. Bleach - This is a powerful disinfectant and stain remover but can be dangerous if ingested or inhaled. Mixing bleach with other cleaning products, such as ammonia or vinegar, can create toxic fumes.
   
   

3. Phthalates - These chemicals are commonly found in fragranced household products, such as air fresheners, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners. They have been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive problems.

4. Triclosan - This is an antimicrobial agent found in many household cleaning products, such as hand soaps, dishwashing detergents, and disinfectants. It has been linked to antibiotic resistance and hormone disruption.
   
   

5. Formaldehyde - This chemical is often found in cleaning products, such as disinfectants and deodorizers. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation and has been classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
   
   

6. Sodium hydroxide - This is a strong alkaline compound often found in oven cleaners and drain cleaners. It can cause severe burns and is extremely corrosive.

7. Perchloroethylene - This can be found in dry cleaning solvents and carpet cleaners. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation and has been linked to liver and kidney damage.

8. 2-Butoxyethanol - This can be found in all-purpose cleaners and window cleaners. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation and has been linked to liver and kidney damage.
   
   

9. Sodium lauryl sulfate - This is commonly found in dish soap, laundry detergent, and shampoo. It can cause skin and eye irritation and has been linked to hormone disruption.
   
   

10. Chlorine - This can be found in household bleach and can create toxic fumes when mixed with other cleaning products, such as ammonia or vinegar. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation.

To avoid these toxins, it's important to read the labels of cleaning products carefully and choose natural and non-toxic alternatives whenever possible. You can also make your own cleaning solutions using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. By being aware of the potential hazards of common household cleaning products, you can keep your home clean and safe for you and your family.