Cleaning products that are keeping women sick: Top 5 Endocrine Disruptors in Your Home & Safe Alternatives
- Esther Ayorinde-Iyamu
- Dec 9, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 11, 2024
As someone living with Endometriosis, I have always been hyper-focused on the types of foods and beauty products I use that have endocrine disruptors in them that could result in painful flare ups. However, it wasn't until recently that I started investigating household cleaning products that could potentially be a problem. The research for this blog was a game changer for me. I hope sharing this helps as many women and girls as possible.
Many household cleaning products contain chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system, potentially leading to health issues such as hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified several common endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in cleaning products and offers guidance on safer, cost-effective alternatives.
Top 5 Endocrine Disruptors in Home Cleaning Products
Phthalates: Often used to add fragrance to cleaning products, phthalates can interfere with hormone function.
Triclosan: An antimicrobial agent found in some cleaners, triclosan is a suspected endocrine disruptor linked to liver toxicity.
Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs): These surfactants are commonly used in laundry detergents and can disrupt hormonal balance.
Bisphenol A (BPA): Present in certain cleaning product containers, BPA can leach into products and act as a hormone disruptor.
Parabens: Used as preservatives in some cleaning agents, parabens can mimic estrogen and disrupt endocrine function.
Here are 5 EWG-Recommended Inexpensive Alternatives
To minimize exposure to these harmful chemicals, EWG suggests the following safer alternatives:
White Vinegar and Water: A mixture of white vinegar and water serves as an effective all-purpose cleaner for countertops, glass, and mirrors.
Baking Soda: This natural abrasive can be used to scrub surfaces, deodorize spaces, and tackle greasy stains.
Castile Soap: A gentle, plant-based soap suitable for various cleaning tasks, including mopping floors and washing dishes.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Acts as a natural disinfectant, ideal for sanitizing surfaces and bathrooms.
Microfiber Cloths: Effective for cleaning without chemicals, these cloths can trap dust and dirt, reducing the need for additional cleaning agents.
By opting for these alternatives, you can maintain a clean home while reducing exposure to harmful endocrine-disrupting chemicals. For more detailed information on product safety and additional recommendations, consult EWG's Guide to Healthy Cleaning.
And, if you are looking to offload cleaning with healthy, natural products, leave the work to Geoffrey. Schedule your next home, car, pet, or family service below.
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