Cleaning supplies such as soaps, detergents, window, countertop and floor cleaners are just a few items in our home that may contain toxic substances that can create harm to ourselves and our family. There are better options.
The US has the worse regulations on cosmetics in the world! Chemical manufacturers do not have to demonstrate products as safe before they go into use. The EPA has to prove these chemicals as harmful. The US bans 11 chemicals from cleaning and personal care products; Europe bans 1300. Hmmm, what is wrong with this picture?!
Many of these toxins are endocrine disrupting chemicals. What are endocrine disrupting chemicals?
Well according to the National Institute of Environmental Sciences, I quote, these are:
“chemicals that interfere with the body’s endocrine system and produce adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological and immune effects in both humans and wildlife.”
Continuous exposure to toxins can overload our system leading to health conditions and breakdown of the body. So, what can we do?
Read your labels and look for the Dirty Dozen. These include:
BHA and BHT
Coal tar dyes
DEA-related ingredients
Dibutyl Phthalate
Formaldehyde
Parabens
Parfum/fragrance
PEG Compounds
Petrolatum
Siloxanes
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Triclosan
Also, there is a free app called Think Dirty. It allows you to scan products at the store and lets you know how “dirty” they are based upon studies. Be sure to switch out your toxic products especially for those who are most vulnerable such as babies and toddlers.
There are many resources to create your own green cleaning products. I use a product from Young Living organization called Thieves Cleaner. It does not contain any of the dirty dozen. It cleans almost all surfaces and if you are not sure then do a spot check. The label gives you guidance on how to dilute for most common areas to clean. Go to my video on this topic to get a list of ways to use Thieves Cleaner. This replaces many of your cleaning supplies making it cost effective.
For more information or to see how to order, please contact me.
Read How to Create a Chemical Free Home and the other informative articles in this issue of Soar to Success magazine
