subject: Harmful Cleaning [print this page] Part of being a good consumer is being educated on the products that you are bringing into your home. It is important to remember that the media is bias. Even though a product can be advertised as being effective that does not necessarily mean that these results will come without consequences. There are many chemicals that can be harmful to humans and animals that are found in common household cleaning products. I will list common harmful chemicals and where they are typically found so that future avoidance of the products can be made.
Perchloroethylene
This chemical can be found in dry cleaning liquids, and in carpet and upholstery cleaners. Perchloroethylene has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a carcinogen. Exposure to this chemical has the ability to damage the liver, kidney and nervous system.
Formaldehyde
Is a toxin known as a carcinogen and phenol, when it comes in contact with skin it can cause it to swell, burn, peel, and break out in hives. This chemical can be found in air fresheners.
Chlorine
Is the number one cause of breast cancer and can be found in many store brand cleaners and dishwasher detergents. It is very important not to clean your shower with chlorine for its effects are intensified when heated. Before placing food on dishes washed in the dishwasher ensure that the dishes do not have any residue, for it will contaminate the food. Dish detergent is the number one source of household poisoning.
Ammonia
Can be damaging to eyes, respiratory tract and skin, it is found in oven cleaning products and its harm is intensified when the oven is heated.
Hydrochloric Acid
Is a corrosive irritant to both skin and eyes, and can damage kidneys and liver. It can be found in toilet bowl cleaners. If it has contact with other chemicals it may cause chlorine fumes which may be fatal.
Petroleum Distillates
Can cause skin and lung cancer and has been said to cause connective tissue disease. This chemical is commonly found in furniture polish.
Although these chemicals tend to dominate the ingredients in most cleaning products avoiding them can be done simply by being aware of the products you purchase. Before purchasing any cleaning products; always read the description of what it contains. By knowing what to avoid you can protect your health.
