Chemicals in cleaning products and their effects on the human body

Always read the label. You’ll find that there are some pretty dangerous chemicals, which float in the air of your home each time you clean:

·         Acetic acid (disinfectants)

·         Boric acid (cockroach/insect powders, water softener, germicide)

·         Carbolic acid (disinfectants)

·         Formic acid (deodorizing tablets and fumigants)

·         Hydrochloric acid/muriatic acid (metal/toilet bowl cleaners, bleaching agents)

·         Oxalic acid (disinfectants, household bleach, iron cleaner, anti-rust polishes)

·         Phosphoric acid (metal/toilet bowl cleaners, rust proofing, disinfectants)

·         Sulfuric acid (drain de-cloggers/cleaners)

These acids can burn the skin and may cause itchy rashes, blisters and erosions on areas of the body the acid comes in contact with. When ingested, it can burn or puncture the esophagus and stomach. Aside from the acids listed above, other products contain ingredients that have been proven to pose serious health risks

·         Triclosan can cause photo contact dermatitis, a skin irritation marked by itchy rashes and hives when exposed to sunlight. Triclosan is used as an anti-bacterial agent in antibacterial soaps, hand gels/sanitizers, and cleaning wipes

·         Neurotoxins poison the brain and nervous system and is said to lower a child’s IQ. Neurotoxins are found in air fresheners, disinfectants, spot removers and permanent-press fabrics.

·         Carcinogens have been found to cause or aggravate cancer
Carcinogens are found in all-purpose cleaners, dishwashing liquids, furniture polish, window cleaners, air fresheners, insecticides.

·         Endocrine disrupters interfere with body’s hormonal and reproductive system. Endocrine disrupters are found in laundry detergents, furniture waxes and metal polishes

·         Mutagens cause permanent genetic change in a cell. One example of a mutagen is Phenol, which is found in laundry detergents, all-purpose cleaners, air fresheners, disinfectants, furniture polish

·          Dermatogens interfere with fetal development and can be found in glass cleaners and all-purpose cleaners