We use too many household cleaning products due to an obsession with disinfectants. Common ingredients include chlorine bleach, surfactants, and phosphates, which can have harmful effects on health and the environment. Proper measures must be taken for safe use and storage, especially to keep them out of reach of children.
As a society, we’ve become obsessed with disinfectants, and as a result, we use far more household cleaning products than are likely needed to keep a clean home. For many, the fear of germs is worse than the fear of what chemicals might be in their products, while for others, the very idea of those chemicals inspires a desire for a better alternative. Some people just never think about it. If you’ve ever wondered what the chemicals are in most cleaning products and where they come from, you might be surprised to find out.
One of the main chemicals in many household cleaning products is chlorine bleach or sodium hypochlorite. Sodium hypochlorite is a chemical compound formed by the absorption of chlorine gas in a sodium hydroxide solution. Chlorine bleach is an effective disinfectant and stain remover, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Chlorine bleach is toxic if ingested, can burn skin and eyes on contact, and the fumes can burn mucous membranes. Hypochlorite has also been found to be carcinogenic when mixed with organic materials.
Another common ingredient in household cleaners are surfactants, which are usually organic compounds. They are often used in dish soaps and shampoos. While surfactants are non-toxic, they are generally petroleum-based products, although some are made from vegetable oils. While surfactants are not harmful to breathing or the skin, there are concerns about the biodegradability of surfactants and their long-term effect on the environment.
Phosphates are minerals that soften water and are very effective in cleaning. Most laundry detergents and many other types of household cleaners once contained phosphates. However, most US states have banned the use of phosphates in detergents and cleaners.
Formaldehyde is another chemical found in some household cleaners, but it’s included as a preservative, not a cleaner. Other chemicals commonly found in cleaners include ammonia; nitrobenzene, which is a toxic organic compound frequently used in furniture polish; and phenol, or carbolic acid. Most of the ingredients in household cleaners are chemicals that are also made for other uses.
Typically, chemicals in cleaners are found in small amounts and diluted with water. This does not necessarily make them safe and proper measures must be taken for the safe use and storage of all cleaning chemicals. Ingestion of common household cleaners by children accounts for more than half of calls made to the poison control center. Always keep cleaning products out of the reach of children.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
