Certain chemical compounds, such as those found in regular household cleaners, can cause health problems. Household products that we least expect often contain toxic substances that can make us ill.

 

These are five of the most common household cleaning and hygiene products that can make the home unhealthy:

 

Toilet and bathroom cleaners are the main source of toxic substances as they are used in small spaces that often have no windows. In toilet and bathroom cleaners, hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid and lye are often combined with glycol ether and the corrosive substance monoethanolamine. Both glycol ether and monoethanolamine are suspected of causing asthma and liver damage. You are particularly at risk if the chemicals remain on the wall tiles and are released by the hot water vapour from the shower.

Instead of harsh chemicals, you can clean the bathroom with pure vinegar to dissolve heavy soiling and use vinegar mixed with warm water to remove less stubborn stains.

 

Antibacterial cleaners and soaps contain tricosan, a dioxin that weakens the immune system, inhibits fertility, can cause hormonal disorders and birth defects.

Better to go back to conventional soap, the more natural the better. Conventional soap kills 99.4% of bacteria, while antibacterial soap kills 99.6% of bacteria.

 

Air fresheners contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen that can cause allergic reactions, skin diseases, headaches, joint pain, depression, fatigue, dizziness and immune disorders.

 

Essential oils in scented lamps or good ventilation are healthier.

 

Dishwashing liquid is one of the few detergents that still contain phosphate and chlorine. Both compounds are toxic in concentrated form and cause skin irritation or burns, eye injuries and damage to the mucous membranes.

When buying dishwashing detergent, make sure that the product is phosphate-free and chlorine-free.

 

Carpet foam and upholstery cleaners contain perchloroethylene, which is highly carcinogenic. Perchloroethylene can cause liver and kidney damage as well as damage to the central nervous system.

Sugar can be used to remove wine or fruit stains, lemonade removes lighter stains. Baking soda or corn starch can be used to deodorise carpets and upholstery. For professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, ask for products that are harmless to health and the environment.