The USA has approved over 62,000 chemicals you probably use daily in your housework. From that number, they have only tested 300, which have been proven safe for humans and the environment. So what about the remaining 61,700 chemicals? Are they safe for use?

That’s a great question. With no definitive answer to that query, people are left to buy store-bought items without understanding the toxicity of these chemicals in the products.

You don’t have to remain naive anymore. It’s essential to make sure you use household cleaners that are safe and free from toxins. Keep reading and learn about seven harmful chemicals you should watch out for in your cleaning agents.

Dangerous Chemicals in Your Household Cleaners

Dangerous toxins pose severe threats to a person’s health in three ways:

● Cancerous – it could have carcinogenic effects on your body.
● Fertility disruptors – They cause false symptoms and bodily hormones that cause endocrine problems.
● Neural damage – some neurotoxins can affect the activity of the brain.

As so, it’s advisable to check the cleaning supplies list of ingredients. Source for any of these seven dangerous chemicals.

1. Phthalates

This chemical is common in fragrance products such as air fresheners and liquid soaps. It’s challenging to find phthalates listed on any labels because of the law that protects such companies from listing their ingredients. But for most fragrant based cleaning supplies, it’s present.

They pose a significant risk in the endocrine system for both men and women, as men report a reduced sperm count and women experience difficulty in reproducing.

3. The Antibacterial Triclosan

Common in liquid soaps and dishwashing products, the chemical is used to get rid of fungi and bacteria in your kitchen. But health-wise, it has carcinogenic effects that could cause damage to your cells and general body health.

The American Medical Association also claims that even with antimicrobial properties, it contains endocrine disruptors.

4. PERC

Perchloroethylene, is a dry cleaning agent used to fast clean clothes, carpet, and upholstery. The Environmental Protection Agency states that this chemical contains both carcinogenic and neurotoxic effects.

The agency advisers on green solutions or all natural cleaning products that are safer and healthier for the body.

5. Butoxyethanol

We mostly find this chemical in cleaning products used for cleaning the windows and kitchen. It has a sweet and inviting scent but contains harmful effects to your respiratory system.

It belongs to a chemical group called Glycol Ethers. These are potent solvents said to cause liver and kidney diseases, narcosis and pulmonary oedema.

6. QUATS

These are Quarternary Ammonium Compounds used mostly in fabric cleaners and softeners. They are antibacterial and antimicrobial agents that have adverse effects on your health.

They have dermatological effects such as dermatitis and skin irritation.

6. Ammonia

Mostly found in bathroom cleaning supplies, we use them to polish and wipe off surfaces and get rid of bad scents. Even with such great properties, ammonia doesn’t relate well with other bleaching agents.

It causes skin irritation and problems with the respiratory system. It can cause chronic bronchitis and asthma with prolonged exposure to ammonia.

The best solution for your cleaning would be to hire professionals. They will use safe and recommended cleaning products. You will be protected from any poisonous gases emitted from a combination of ammonia and cleaning agents.

7. The Chloride Chemical

Household cleaners for laundry, toilets, bathroom, and windows contain high contents of chlorine. Although effects from chlorine are acute, they could turn toxic and cause severe damage to your health and skin.

The longer the exposure to it, the higher the risk for your body.

Clean the Right Way

Hygiene is essential to our health. Dust accumulation could lead to respiratory infections, damp surroundings leads to Malaria, and build-up of fungi and bacteria is also harmful. Not to mention the household cleaners you use for clean up could also pose great risks to your health.

You don’t have to expose yourself to such chemicals anymore, schedule a cleanup for your home. You are assured of sparkling results.