Many of the cleaning products that we use at home can be harmful when used incorrectly. For example, spraying Lysol on your skin or mixing cleaning products together can be hazardous to your health. Cleaning product chemicals are playing an increasing role in rates of breast cancer, infertility, early puberty, and other health problems. Below are links to guidelines from the environmental health non-profit, Women’s Voices for the Earth (WVE), to help keep our families safe.
Here are tips for safer use of cleaning products:
- Look for fragrance-free cleaning products – or products which disclose the ingredients in their fragrances.
- Use antibacterial cleaners sparingly – employ them only for particular situations with high chance of spreading infections.
- Wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day and before eating to prevent the spread of disease instead of disinfecting surfaces.
- Read the labels – pay special attention to products that use the word “danger” or “caution” and read instructions carefully on these products. Use protective eyewear and gloves if recommended. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
- Do not use or store dangerous cleaners in households where children or pets are present. This includes bleach sprays, oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and single load laundry pods.
- Make your own cleaners from safer ingredients – get simple recipes at www.womensvoices.org.
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