The Hidden Dangers of Traditional Cleaning Chemicals: A Threat to Your Family’s Health
When we think about keeping our homes clean and healthy, the last thing we imagine is that the products we trust to protect our families could be doing the exact opposite. But the truth is chilling: numerous studies have uncovered a disturbing link between the chemicals in traditional cleaning products and the development of asthma in both children and adults.
How Do Traditional Cleaning Chemicals Cause Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic, life-altering respiratory condition that inflames and narrows the airways, making every breath a struggle. While many factors can trigger asthma, the silent invaders lurking in your cleaning supplies may be some of the most dangerous. Exposure to certain chemicals found in these everyday products—such as laundry liquids, floor cleaners, and all-purpose cleaners—can inflame your airways, leading to severe, sometimes life-threatening asthma attacks.
The toxic mix of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates, and other irritants in traditional cleaners doesn’t just clean your home—it can also poison the air you breathe³. These harmful cleaning chemicals can wreak havoc on your respiratory system, triggering inflammation and setting the stage for a lifetime of asthma attacks. Even more terrifying, repeated exposure to these toxic substances can lead to the development of asthma in previously healthy individuals.
New Research: The Damage Happens Early
The nightmare doesn’t start in adulthood. Shocking new research reveals that asthma often begins its development in early childhood, progressing with each year. There’s only a narrow window during the earliest years of life to protect children from this chronic disease. Once asthma takes hold, the damage can potentially be long-lasting—early exposure to VOCs, synthetic fragrances, and other harmful chemicals can negatively impact the development of a child’s respiratory system.
The study showed that 75% of the children with mild to moderate asthma had abnormal lung growth. These findings are a stark reminder of the urgent need to shield young children from the invisible threats that could permanently impair their lung development.
The Toxic Culprits in Your Home
The dangers hiding in your cleaning products are real and more insidious than you might think. A few of the most detrimental substances include:
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These chemicals, which easily evaporate at room temperature, are found in many household cleaning products, including laundry liquids, floor cleaners, and all-purpose cleaners. They are a significant source of indoor air pollution and can cause severe asthma attacks. Formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene are just a few of the VOCs that may be lurking in your home⁴.
- Phthalates: Commonly used in synthetic fragrances found in products like air fresheners, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners, phthalates can disrupt your body’s endocrine system and have been linked to serious respiratory issues, including asthma. Young children, with their immature respiratory systems, are at a higher risk from these chemical exposures.
- Ammonia and Chlorine: Often found in disinfectants, glass cleaners, and bleach, these harsh chemicals can cause intense respiratory irritation, triggering or worsening asthma symptoms, particularly in poorly ventilated areas².
- Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): Found in many disinfectant sprays and wipes, Quats are effective at killing germs, but they also pose a significant risk to your respiratory health. Repeated exposure to these chemicals has been linked to the onset of asthma, especially in those who use them regularly.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Family?
The risks associated with traditional cleaning chemicals are too great to ignore. There are ways to minimize your family's exposure to indoor air pollution and safeguard their health.
- Use Non-Toxic Alternatives: One of the most effective ways to safeguard your home is by switching to non-toxic cleaning products. Environ is a leading example of a safe and powerful alternative. Made from 100% plant-based ingredients, Environ’s products are free from the harmful chemicals found in traditional cleaners. Instead of toxic VOCs, phthalates, and harsh irritants, Environ uses natural ingredients like essential oils, enzymes, and probiotics to deliver a clean home without compromising your family’s health. Environ offers a comprehensive range of products to cover all your cleaning needs, including Laundry Liquid and Fabric Conditioner to keep your clothes fresh and free from harmful residues, Floor Cleaner to maintain spotless and safe surfaces, and Dishwash Soap to cut through grease without harsh chemicals. For general cleaning, All-Purpose Cleaner tackles dirt and grime on various surfaces, while Toilet and Sink Cleaner keeps your bathroom clean and fresh. Additionally, Environ Handwash ensures your hands are clean and protected without the dangers of traditional soaps. What makes Environ stand out is its commitment to safety and effectiveness. All Environ products are GreenPro certified, and only IFRA-certified fragrances are used, which have been rigorously tested in independent third-party laboratories. By choosing Environ, you’re making a conscious decision to eliminate the dangerous chemicals that could harm your loved ones.
- Improve Ventilation: Even with safer cleaning products, it’s always a good idea to keep your home well-ventilated. Open windows and doors while cleaning, and use exhaust fans to help clear the air of any lingering particles.
- Reduce Use of Aerosols and Sprays: Aerosol sprays can release high concentrations of VOCs into the air, even when using safer products. Whenever possible, choose liquid or solid cleaning products instead, and avoid those with synthetic fragrances.
- Use Natural Cleaning Ingredients: For those who enjoy DIY solutions, natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can complement your Environ products, offering additional cleaning power without harmful side effects.
By making the switch to non-toxic alternatives like Environ, you’re not just cleaning—you’re taking a proactive step to safeguard your family’s health. The risks posed by traditional cleaning chemicals are too significant to ignore, but with Environ, you can ensure your home is safe and spotless.