Here’s a list of some of the products in everyday use and some ways to make safer choices:
CLEANING PRODUCTS Everyone likes a clean home, but many cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that can cause health problems. The EPA found that the air inside a home is typically 2 to 5 times more polluted than air located just outside it, largely because of the use of household cleaners and pesticides. You can make your own products, or purchase safer cleaning products.
Things You Can Do:
- All Purpose Cleaner: Use a mixture of vinegar and salt; or 4 tbsp baking soda in 1 quart warm water; or 2 tbsp borax in 3 cups of water.
- Oven Cleaner: Use oven liners when possible; clean with a paste of baking soda and water.
- Antibacterial Soaps: These promote drug resistant organisms, and chemicals from these soaps are being found in our water and in wildlife. The American Medical Association says that regular soap is just as effective.
- Glass Cleaner: Use a mix of 1/2 white vinegar and 1/2 water.
- Scouring Powder: Use baking soda.
- Disinfectant: Immerse object in boiling water if possible, or use hot water and soap to clean.
- Mildew Remover: Use a mixture of lemon juice and salt; or white vinegar and salt.
- If buying cleaning products, purchase non-toxic people-friendly and environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies whenever possible.