When was the last time you took a good look under your kitchen sink? It’s often a collection of cleaning products that promise to make your home sparkle. But what’s really inside those bottles? Many contain harmful chemicals that could impact your family’s health and the environment. Let’s uncover these hidden dangers and explore safer cleaning options.

The Hidden Hazards in Household Cleaners
Many cleaning products hide hazardous ingredients. Here are a few examples:

• Ammonia: Found in many glass cleaners, ammonia fumes can irritate your skin, eyes, nose, and throat.
• Petroleum Distillates: Common in degreasers, these chemicals can harm lung tissue and nerve cells.
• Oven Cleaners: These rank among the most dangerous, with the potential to cause severe eye, skin, mouth, and throat damage.
• Toilet Bowl Cleaners: Extremely hazardous, they can be harmful when inhaled and potentially fatal if swallowed.

Cleaning Products to Rethink
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), some common cleaners receive failing grades for safety. Here are a few products with concerning ratings:

• Ajax®
• Clorox®
• Fabuloso®
• Green Works®
• Lysol®
• Mr. Clean®
• Scrubbing Bubbles®
• Simple Green® All-Purpose Cleaner
• Soft Scrub®
• Windex®
• And more…
  (*All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.)

Why It Matters
The chemicals in these products don’t just stay in your home—they linger on surfaces, release fumes, and seep into waterways. They may irritate your skin and lungs, harm your health, and damage the environment. By rethinking your cleaning choices, you can create a healthier home and reduce your ecological footprint.

Next Steps: Switch to Safer Alternatives
You don’t have to choose between safety and a clean home. In the next blog, we’ll share tips on swapping harsh cleaners for effective, non-toxic solutions. Stay tuned for simple ways to make a big impact!

P.S. Wondering how to identify safe products?
Check out the Environmental Working Group (EWG). They provide ratings on product safety and environmental impact. Download the EWG app to scan items while shopping or visit their website for helpful guides. Small changes can lead to big improvements in your home and health!