When we buy cleaning products, we usually only look for the right cleaning properties. What is certain, however, is that most of the products you can buy are perfectly adequate. But we are not really aware of how these products can damage our health. It is therefore particularly important to know what the products we buy are made of. CYCLE can help you with this: we'll show you what to look out for when choosing!
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Which toxic compounds are most common in cleaning products?
Many home products contain toxic ingredients, so it's good to know what to look for on labels. Let's learn about some of these substances and where they are found:
Phthalates. This chemical can be found in scented household products, dishwashing soap, air freshener or even scented toilet paper. Many products are not labelled as such, but if they say 'fragranced', they probably contain phthalates. Except, of course, for natural fragrances, which are covered in a separate post.
Perchloroethylene. It is most commonly found in dry-cleaning solutions, upholstery and carpet cleaners and stain removers. Toxic, should not be inhaled.
Triclosan. If you come across a dishwashing liquid or soap labelled 'antibacterial', chances are it contains triclosan, which is also dangerous.
Quaternary ammonium compounds. Substances found in detergents or antibacterial home cleaning products. Toxic if swallowed, can cause asthma if inhaled.
2-Butoxy-ethanol. A regular ingredient in kitchen cleaners, window and multifunctional cleaners, it can cause respiratory problems, asthma.
Ammonia. A common surface cleaning additive in bathroom cleaners and window cleaners. Also harmful to inhale at higher levels.
Chlorine. Due to its strong disinfectant effect, it is found in many preparations. It is even present in small amounts in tap water.
Why are they dangerous?
There are many reasons why these chemicals used in cleaning products can be dangerous to our health:
They can disrupt our endocrine system. Phthalates can be absorbed through skin contact and enter the body. Triclosan can also disrupt the endocrine system, and chlorine can have adverse effects on thyroid function (among other things).
They reduce fertility. Research shows that higher concentrations of phthalates in the blood lead to a reduction in sperm count.
They can cause dizziness and coordination problems. Perchloroethylene is a neurotoxin, a neurotoxin that we can inhale. One of the consequences is loss of coordination or dizziness.
They can be carcinogenic. Some of the chemicals listed, such as triclosan, may have carcinogenic properties.
They can promote the birth of superbacteria. Antibacterial chemicals, such as triclosan or quaternary ammonium compounds, can promote the birth of superbacteria that are resistant to most antibiotics.
They can cause skin irritation. Exposure to quaternary ammonium compounds can lead to skin problems.
They can lead to respiratory problems. Some chemicals, such as quaternary ammonium compounds or inhalation of ammonia, can cause respiratory problems and contribute to the development of asthma.
They can cause sore throats. Baking soda and 2-butoxyethanol can cause sore throats through their corrosive effects.
They can cause severe kidney and liver damage. Research has shown that 2-butoxyethanol can cause damage to vital organs, especially if inhaled for long periods in high concentrations, for example in a poorly ventilated room.
They can cause burn injuries. Strongly alkaline chemicals (such as baking soda) can cause burns if exposed to high levels of alkaline chemicals.
Does the label help us?
Labels on cleaning products should help you navigate the maze of chemicals. But it's not that simple.
Ingredients list. The ingredients are listed on the label, but unfortunately their names may differ. For example, you may find an anionic surfactant or a simple fragrance on the list, which is not very helpful in finding out exactly what the ingredient is. The manufacturer's customer service can help with this, or go straight for a product that you know for sure is not made up of toxic ingredients.
Danger symbols and warnings. We may not be familiar with all the ingredients, but pictograms and warnings indicating danger should be clear to everyone. It is very important never to mix different cleaning products and disinfectants. It is mandatory to indicate on products if they are:
- irritant
- dangerous for the environment
- may damage the eyes
- corrosive to the skin or eyes
- combustible
The label will usually also indicate how to deal with the waste generated and give advice on how to store it properly.
Is there another solution?
We have good news! Yes, there is another solution if you want to clean your home with a cleaning product that doesn't contain dangerous chemicals.
CYCLE, an all-natural cleaner, contains none of the toxic substances listed above, does not harm the environment or our health, and reduces our ecological footprint.
