You would think that the cleaning products that are easily sold in your local grocery store are safe but you may be wrong. Studies have shown that chemicals found in common household cleaners and cosmetics contribute to diseases. Not only have these chemicals shown to be a burden of disease but also economic and environment cost. 

A study in 2010 shows that endocrine-disrupting chemicals have lowered IQ points and intellectual disability. These chemicals have also been linked to obesity, autism, heart disease and reproductive toxicity, let alone the effects it has on your skin. A lot of these chemicals are meant to break down grease and grime and are very abrasive. 

Fragrances added to many cleaners, most notably laundry detergents and fabric softeners, may cause acute effects such as respiratory irritation, headache, sneezing, and watery eyes in sensitive individuals or allergy and asthma sufferers. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has found that one-third of the substances used in the fragrance industry are toxic. But because the chemical formulas of fragrances are considered trade secrets, companies aren't required to list their ingredients but merely label them as containing "fragrance."

We can protect the environment by not using petroleum-based products, which contribute to the depletion of non-renewable resources. Phosphates is another famous water pollutant and are commonly found in laundry and dishwasher detergents. Too much of these chemicals can make our water very toxic to both humans and wildlife.

Green cleaning products are not only safe for your household and environment they are also cheaper. One of the common misconceptions is that natural, green products are more expensive but in the long term they actually save you money. Natural cleaning products include vinegar, lemon, borax, castile soap and baking soda. These ingredients have never been marked as harmful and are most likely in your cabinets now. 

So instead of waiting for these chemicals to become illegal, make the switch now. When looking for green products to use, choose products with plant-based, instead of petroleum-based ingredients. Another good sign to look out for is the "keep out of reach of children" label and other tell-tale hazard warnings. 

Health Problems from Common Chemicals Cost $340 Billion Per Year: Study

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the USA: a population-based disease burden and cost analysis

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