With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to deep clean your home. But before you reach for the dustpan and cleaning supplies, here are a few points to consider.
Cleaning Products Can Be a Major Source of Pollution in The Home
When it comes to cleaning products – whether they’re for the floor, the windows, or the stove – choose wisely. Many conventional cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can have a real impact on air quality and your health.
Ingredients such as Perchloroethylene (PERC), 2-Butoxyethanol, Formaldehyde, Ammonia, and Sodium Hydroxide can be found in everyday products like oven cleaners, fabric cleaners, and even streak-free glass cleaners. Many of these chemicals are known carcinogens. They can cause kidney and liver damage, narcosis, and pulmonary edema, a condition caused by excess fluid in the lungs.
First, Clean the Air
If you’ve been using conventional cleaners and you are concerned about chemicals and VOCs in the home, consider the Austin Air HealthMate® Plus. Using a blend of Activated Carbon, Potassium Iodide-Impregnated Carbon, and Zeolite, the Austin Air HealthMate® Plus effectively removes VOCs, formaldehyde, benzenes, chemicals, gases, and odors.
Next, Avoid Artificial Scents
It can be tempting to freshen up a room with a quick spritz of air freshener or a scented candle. But artificial scents are often asthma and allergy triggers that can seriously impact your health. To keep the air in your home smelling fresh without chemicals, opt for essential oils or beeswax candles as a safe alternative.
Finally, Go Natural!
If possible, try to swap out harsh chemicals for natural cleaning products, such as lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda. They are safe to use, they won’t pollute the air, and they cost a lot less than standard cleaners.
If you’re looking for ready-made, natural alternatives, we love Branch Basics. Using all-natural, non-toxic ingredients, Branch Basics offers a safe and effective solution for cleaning your home.
And Always Read the Label!
If you do need to purchase cleaning products, always take time to read the label before you buy. Manufacturers are not legally obliged to provide a full list of ingredients in the US. Even products that are promoted as ‘green’ may contain harmful chemicals. To help consumers find cleaning products that are safer to use, the EPA provides a list of ‘Safer Choice’ products on their website. From car care products to dish soap, look out for the ‘EPA Safer Choice’ logo next time you’re shopping.
