Non-Toxic Cleaning Products: A Healthier Way to Clean

Keeping a clean home is important for our health, but did you know that some cleaners can be toxic too? Inhaling or absorbing chemicals found in some cleaning products can be harmful to our health. Here at Healthy Living Chiropractic, we believe in using non-toxic cleaning products that are safer for both our health and the environment. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the ingredients to eliminate or minimize in your home cleaning routine and offer some recommendations on non-toxic cleaning products.

Ingredients to Avoid

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUATS) are found in cleaners that are designed to kill bacteria and microbes, such as Clorox wipes. However, they have been linked to reproductive harm, antibiotic resistance, respiratory irritation, and skin dermatitis.

Chlorine bleach is another ingredient to avoid as it releases toxic byproducts called dioxins and furans, which are carcinogenic and have been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive harm.

Ammonia is a corrosive ingredient that can cause burning of the skin and nasal passages. It can also be extremely harmful depending on the amount of exposure.

Formaldehyde is found in some laundry detergents, plug-in air fresheners, and soaps. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and are linked to cancer and allergic reactions.

Fragrance is another umbrella term for pretty much anything artificial. Phthalates and other toxicants can be hidden under the word "fragrance" or "parfum."

Dyes found in cleaning products can contain heavy metals, and they're just not necessary in cleaning products.

Ethoxylates are surfactant chemicals in cleaners that are petroleum-based, and they are harmful to the environment and humans. They include PEGs, diethanolamine, and "-eareths" (steareth, ceteareth, etc.). Look for brands that either don't use ethoxylated ingredients or have policies in place to test and/or minimize them.

Non-Toxic Cleaning Products Recommendations

There are many good brands out there that are environmentally conscious and use clean and non-toxic ingredients. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Branch Basics
• Force of Nature
• Attitude
• Aunt Fannies
• Meliora (laundry)

What We Use at Home

At Healthy Living Chiropractic, we use Melaleuca products, Doterra cleaner, and make our own general cleaner. Making your own cleaner is simple and cost-effective. Here are two recipes to try:

Natural DIY Streak-Free Window Cleaner

• 2 cups distilled water OR reverse osmosis purified water (with no added minerals)
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 10 drops essential oil of your choice (if you want)

Mix into a spray bottle, give it a shake, and clean your windows using reusable cloths or newspaper.

Simple Natural All-Purpose Cleaner

• One part white vinegar
• One part water
• Lemon juice

Combine the ingredients in a bottle and shake it up—that's it! Leave the lemon out for surfaces like granite and stainless steel.

In Conclusion

Small changes over time can make a big difference in our health and the environment. By switching to non-toxic cleaning products, we can create a healthier home for ourselves and our loved ones. We hope you found these recommendations helpful and encourage you to make the switch to non-toxic cleaning products today.