The following chemicals are some of the biggest toxic offenders in our homes:
Chlorine
We are surrounded by chlorine. Most people will only believe their house is clean if they can smell chlorine when they are finished. We need to retrain ourselves about what the smell of clean should be. “Clean” should not be a chemical that the 1990 Clean Air Act listed as a hazardous air pollutant. It is so terrible that the American Public Health Association is trying to get manufacturers to stop putting chlorine in products. It is very hard to get manufacturers on board with phasing out chlorine because it is so cheap to manufacture.
While manufacturers are saving money producing our household products, we are exposing ourselves to the dangers of this cheap chemical. It can cause respiratory problems including coughing, chest pain, and chronic and acute bronchitis. It can also make existing respiratory problems, like asthma and emphysema, worse.
Products that may contain chlorine: all-purpose cleaner, laundry detergents, dishwashing detergent, disinfectant wipes, and paper products (paper towels, napkins, feminine products, etc.)
Alternatives: Vinegar and pure essential oils for cleaning, chlorine-free paper products
Dioxin & Triclosan
Dioxin is an incredibly dangerous toxin that can be in products labeled antibacterial or antimicrobial. Dioxin is not readily biodegradable and has been linked to cancer, birth defects, and damage to the immune, reproductive, and respiratory systems.
Triclosan is a disinfectant that when exposed to the sun can convert to dioxin. Germs can develop a resistance to triclosan and mutate.
Products that may contain dioxin & triclosan: anything labeled antibacterial or antimicrobial, laundry detergent, mouthwash, deodorant, cutting boards, & sponges
Alternatives: Pure essential oils that naturally combat bacteria (lemon, tea tree, eucalyptus, spruce, cinnamon, & clove), Microfiber products that do not contain triclosan.
Ammonia
This one is not good at all. When I was pregnant with my second child, I was told to avoid any cleaning products containing ammonia. It is extremely toxic when inhaled and can cause bronchitis or pneumonia. In addition, it can cause chemical burns, cataracts, corneal damage, and skin cancer. It also does no favors to the environment. It can destroy the ecosystem by poisoning plants, animals, and fish.
Products that may contain ammonia: glass cleaner, dishwasher detergent, furniture and metal polishes
Sources: Green This! and The Naturally Clean Home