May 05, 2010

Cleaning chemicals killing us?

Did you know that the skin absorbs a large portion of the products that it comes in contact with; cleaning products, lotions, perfume, and others. This absorption is in direct correlation with how much of the product is on the skin and the length of time it is on the skin. Cleaning chemicals are not only absorbed via the skin but also inhaled causing further absorption. Meanwhile on the label the product says; "Warning, Poison, Danger" yet we continue to buy these products...why? HABIT. Cigarette warning labels have evolved since 1966 and have included statements such as; "Smoking Causes Lung Cancer, Heart Disease, Emphysema, And May Complicate Pregnancy." The affect has been to decrease the rates of smoking in the past 45 years in a substantial way.

So I ask the question; if cleaning products had warnings like: "This cleaner can suppress the immune system" or "this cleaner has a suspected carcinogen as a main ingredient" would you still buy it? The problem is cleaning chemicals are KNOWN health hazards yet so few people truly are paying attention. So I ask; how can we change this? What are your thoughts on educating the masses on what bleach does to the body? Write your comments below.

In today's world you don't need cleaning products that are poisonous to get the job done. How about this as a means of understanding the dangers; If you have to put childproof locks on your cabinets because you are "Afraid" your child will get into the cabinet and consume poison you need to go green. Toxic cleaning chemicals are not any better than the green products that can be purchased or made for that matter. What they are is a danger to your health and that of your loved ones. While they clean the surface of dirt they leave VOC's behind on the surface and in the air to be absorbed by the body at a later date.

What chemicals should you be on the look out for? Here is a short list that isn't complete but will give you some idea. If all else fails don't buy it if it says danger, warning, poison, or anything along those lines. Here is the list:

1) Chlorinated phenols found in toilet bowl cleaners are toxic to respiratory and circulatory systems.
2) Diethylene glycol found in window cleaners depresses the nervous system.
3) Phenols found in disinfectants are toxic to respiratory and circulatory systems.
5) Formaldehyde found in spray and wick deodorizers is a respiratory irritant and suspected carcinogen.
6) Petroleum solvents in floor cleaners damage mucous membranes.
7) Perchloroethylene, a spot remover, causes liver and kidney damage.

We could literally write a book about the health affects of cleaning chemicals but suffice it to say that the warnings on the labels are enough. "Poison" is a clear indicator. Now the question is what are you going to change? If you'd like more info on green cleaning products that are safe for you and your family read these articles:

Life without laundry soap

Green cleaning products list

As always we would love to hear your thoughts and how we can help you or someone you know. It literally only takes a small change to make a huge difference. Have a great and green day!

1 comment:

  1. Knowing where to buy cleaning chemicals is just as important as knowing how/what to buy. There are many physical stores that sell these products and chemicals.
    Visit our website here Cleaning Chemicals . . .