Chemicals used for cleaning can have detrimental effects on both the planet and health. Depending on the individual substances used, their ingredients, and how they are disposed of, can cause serious effects. Some of these effects are: 

1. Environmental Impacts:

Water Pollution: Many cleaning chemicals contain substances that are not easily decomposable and can end up in waterways. These substances have the potential to harm aquatic life and disturb ecosystems when they get into bodies of water. When these chemicals enter bodies of water, they can harm aquatic life and disrupt ecosystems. 

Air Pollution: Volatile organic compounds found in some cleaning products can evaporate into the atmosphere, contributing to indoor and outdoor air pollution. 

Ecosystem Disruption: The chemicals in cleaning products can affect various species and disrupt the natural order of ecosystems, which are essential for plant and animal growth. 

2. Health Impacts:

Respiratory Issues: Many cleaning chemicals release fumes and particles that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. 

Skin Irritation: Direct contact with certain cleaning chemicals can cause skin irritation and even result in chemical burns.

Allergies and Sensitivities: Some cleaning chemicals contain allergens or can trigger allergic reactions and sensitivity in individuals, which can lead to symptoms like rashes, sneezing, and watery eyes.

Repeated exposure to certain cleaning chemicals has also been linked to more serious health issues, including an increased risk of certain cancers, neurological disorders, and even organ damage.

To assist in avoiding the impacts that cleaning chemicals can cause, it is important to choose safer alternatives, like natural or “green cleaning products” and adopt best practices to minimize these negative impacts.