• Cleaning

Harsh chemicals aren't the solution to cleaning

There are a lot of different cleaners out there. For many years, people believed that the best cleaners were those that contained the most effective chemicals, no matter what those chemicals are. Numerous chemicals used for cleaning around the world require the wearing of masks and other safety equipment. Harsh chemicals aren't the solution to cleaning, though. At Sparkle Freshness, we pride ourselves on using eco-friendly cleaners to avoid the harshness and toxic chemicals most commercial cleaners are using.

Here are some of the effects of using toxic chemicals and cleaners.

Laundry Chemicals

Have you ever had stiff clothing that made you itch after a laundering? There is a reason behind that. Some detergent leaves behind chemicals that get stuck in your clothes and cause rashes, itchiness, or worse. Every time your clothes go through the laundry they are re-exposed to these chemicals. Similar effects can be seen from dryer pads and other dryer additives.

Aerosols

Aerosols are chemicals that are added to cleaners and other spray bottles in order to give them the pressure that propels the material out of the canister. These aerosols can be harmful to the atmosphere and to your house. The gasses that makeup aerosols can contribute to global warming and smog that causes asthma reactions. Older aerosols and ones from outside of the United States can also contain CFCs which are known to eat away at the ozone layer and contribute to causing great harm to our planet.

Phthalates

Phthalates are chemicals that can be found in many fragranced cleaners. This chemical can cause reduced sperm count in males and isn't just limited to one exposure method. Exposure to phthalates is most commonly taken in by inhalation; however, it can also be taken in by skin contact with the chemicals.

2-Butoxyethanol

One of the most common toxic ingredients in window cleaners, 2- butoxyethanol is a dangerous chemical that can have multiple effects on the body. 2-butoxyethanol is inhaled by the body and in small doses will only cause a sore throat. Larger exposures to 2-butoxyethanol can cause severe damage to organs, narcosis, and pulmonary edemas.

Ammonia

Ammonia is a well-known chemical that is still allowed in various cleaners around the world. Ammonia is an airborne chemical hazard that can cause asthma and chronic bronchitis. Those most at risk are professional cleaners but those who use a lot of household cleaners that contain ammonia regularly are also at risk. Jewelry cleaners also contain ammonia.

Chlorine

Most of us are well aware of the chemical chlorine as it is often added to water to purify it, such as how chlorine is used to purify pool water. As far as cleaners go it is used in a lot of cleaning powders and tile cleaners. In small amounts, chlorine poses only a small risk of chronic issues. However, in large amounts chlorine can cause severe issues from skin problems to respiratory issues. It is also being investigated for being a potential thyroid disruptor.

Sodium Hydroxide

Oven cleaners and drain unblockers often contain sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide is picked by manufacturers because it is highly corrosive and can unblock many different causes of drain blockage and can remove many different things from your oven. That same corrosiveness is what can cause skin damage and burns from simple exposures.

How to Avoid Toxic Chemicals

Not all of these chemicals are required to be listed on labels. The best way to avoid them is to buy green, eco-friendly cleaners. For when you don't want to buy these cleaners, there are a few options you have for avoiding them.

First off, you should always check the label of any product you are buying for any of these hazardous chemicals or other chemicals. Second, you should look for product warnings such as keep away from your eyes. Lastly, you should look for warning, hazard, danger, etc. icons on the product label.

Now that you know the effects of toxic chemicals and cleaners you can make the smart choice to remove them from your house. It isn't a hard step to make and you can find many green cleaners that will be just as effective. Do it for your health, the health of your family, and that of your pets. It will be the best move you make this year.

If you're finally ready to avoid these toxic chemicals once and for all, contact Sparkle Freshness for a custom quote for eco-friendly commercial office deep cleaning serving North County San Diego and surrounding areas.