Cleaning products are chemical substances which make it easier to get dirt off different surfaces. While they are mostly safe when used correctly, it is important to know exactly what each product in your home has. This not only protects you and your family's health, but also prevents damage to your surfaces, clothes, appliances etc. and protects your indoor air from excessive pollution. This article discusses some safety tips for buying and using cleaning chemicals in the home.
It's worth mentioning that transparency is a major requirement when buying your cleaning agents, therefore stay away from products which do not list constituent ingredients. Without a list, you'll have no way to assess potential dangers of any product, and this isn't a risk worth taking. Watch out for the following ingredients:
- Triclosan in disinfectants and antibacterials – you may think you're doing your family a favour by using antibacterial products loaded with triclosan, but research has shown that it could be more harmful by building antibiotic resistance, negatively affecting the environment and building up in your body cells. Instead, opt for disinfectants that use alcohol to kill germs, as they are safer for you and the environment.
- Bleach – chlorine-based bleach (as sodium or potassium hypochlorite) isn't as potentially harmful as triclosan, but it should also be used sparingly. Many times in the home, normal soap and water is all you need for cleaning. For disinfection, use diluted bleach according to the care label instruction. Use carefully as the bleach is highly corrosive and an irritant for the lungs and eyes. Avoid mixing with other cleaning chemicals, as you can trigger chemical reactions to produce harmful chlorine gases.
- Ammonia – ammonia-based products (common in floor wax, polishers and window cleaners) may release ammonia which is toxic when breathed in and the products can burn your skin. Therefore, wear protective clothing when using ammonia-based products. Do not mix with other cleaning products e.g. bleach as the reaction gives off toxic chloramine gases.
- Phthalates – this is a group of compounds used to give fragrances in household cleaners. The label will probably have 'fragrance' in place of phthalates under ingredients. Limit your use of synthetically scented products with phthalates, as these can cause migraines and allergic reactions in hypersensitive people. Instead, you can use organic scented products made with essential oils. Having plants in and around the home can also help to naturally detoxify the air and hence reduce your reliance on air-freshening products with phthalates.
- Sodium hydroxide – this is also known as lye, and it is a corrosive substance found in drain and oven cleaners. Extreme care should be taken when using products with sodium hydroxide; contact with skin or eyes can cause severe caustic burns. For clogged drains, try using home remedies like hot water, vinegar and baking soda first. Only use commercial drain openers like borax when the clogging persists. Frequent usage can also cause your plumbing pipes to deteriorate. Call a plumber to diagnose the underlying problem if your drains clog frequently.
Bonus tip: All cleaning agents should be stored in the same way medicines are stored: away from the reach of children to prevent accidental poisoning. If placing under the sink, ensure the cabinet is lockable and keep it locked except when in use.
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