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However, it is sad to know that most people rely more on toxic-based cleaning solutions than on organic cleaning products. The immediate results these products can produce seem to blind many of their effects to human health and the envrionment. Direct evidence to this is the large number of different cleaning solutions used by home owners or keepers.
Little by little though, people are opening their eyes to the true effects of toxin-based cleaning solutions. This gives rise to the high sales demand on natural cleaning products. As a responsible individual, this should serve as a sign for you to consider your cleaning solutions and probably switch from chemical-based to organic cleaning products.
But what is it exaclty that makes chemical-based cleaning solutions a danger to human health and the envrionment? The answer, is actually found in the question itself – chemicals. And when we say solution, this usually refers to more than just a single chemical component or element.
These chemical ingredients are mostly found on conventional cleaning products. Other self-proclaimed green cleaning products can even have some of these chemicals though in a very minimal amount. This is the very reason why should always check the ingredients of the cleaning solution that you intend to purchase even if is it has “natural” or “organic” words attached to its label.
The following are some of the common harmful ingredients that you might find in commercially available cleaning products. Familiarize yourself with them so you will know what's to buy and what's not to.
Naphthalene – this chemical is most often present on pesticides. Mothballs, insect repellants and deodorizers may also contain this hamful element. It can cause damage to kidney and liver as well as to the eyes. There are studies proposing that it can also cause cancer to both humans and animals.
Ammonia – ammonia is found in a wide variety of cleaning products. The use of it is considered to be dangerous to the environment and can cause respiratory and eye irritation. If mixed with bleach, it can result to a very hazardous chemical compound called chloramine.
Acetone – acetone is a flammable liquid and an important solvent. It is commonly used as a nail polish remover. High vapor concentration can make acetone a severe irritant to eyes and may also cause damage to the central nervous system.
Formaldehyde - Used in making disinfectants, furniture polishes and sanitary paper products.
It is considered to be toxic, carcinogenic and allergenic. Formaldehyde can also cause irratation to the eyes, headache, burning sensation in the throat and difficulty in breathing.
Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) – Bleach is found in many household cleaners. Most bleaches act as strong oxidizing agents. If mixed with another acid like vinegar or even just a lemon juice, it can produce chlorine which is a respiratory and eye irritant.