Harmful Effects to using Everyday Chemicals.

Many cleaning supplies can irritate the eyes or throat, and cause other health problems, including cancer. Some products release dangerous chemicals, including Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCS).  Other harmful ingredients include ammonia and bleach. VOCs and other chemicals released when using cleaning supplies contribute to chronic respiratory problems, allergic reactions and headaches. Studies are underway to assess how these chemicals affect people who have asthma and other respiratory illnesses. 

Watch out for chemicals like:

• Formaldehyde 
• Thiourea
• Ammonia
• Phthalates 

Gases created from this combination can lead to chronic breathing problems. Ozone is a harmful, but invisible gas that worsens asthma and other lung diseases. Particles are also common air pollutants that can worsen asthma and other lung diseases and risk heart attacks and stroke. Both ozone and particles can be life-threatening.

To help prevent harm from household chemicals read all labels on cleaning supplies before you buy them. Choose products that do not contain or have reduced amounts of VOCs, fragrances, irritants and flammable ingredients.

Benefits to Green Cleaning Products 

One of the benefits of green cleaning is that green products won't damage surfaces over time like traditional products can. They are also better for the environment if you are using something that needs to go down the drain. They also have no harmful effects if you accidentally come in contact with them to your skin or eyes. In the long term you are less exposed to toxins which is better for your health.

As a safer cleaning alternative, warm water and soap often will do the trick, especially at home. Baking soda is good for scrubbing. A mix of vinegar and water can clean glass.  When using cleaning or household products, keep the area well ventilated.