The Real Cost of a Clean Home

Everyone loves a clean home. When you consider the benefits of having a nice, uncluttered, dirt-free space like keeping germs away and lowering stress, it’s not hard to see why some people genuinely love spring cleaning all year long. But what if I told you that the very act of cleaning can be causing some serious harm to your body?

Ironically, the chemicals and substances used clear away dirt, grease, and grime can also be affecting your health. And, what’s the point of killing 99% of germs if you might be cutting your life shorter by the spritz? Cleaning your home shouldn’t be a double-edged sword so we made a list of 3 things to watch out for when buying cleaning products.

1. 2-Butoxyethanol

This widely used solvent is commonly found in most all-purpose cleaners due to its ability to help break down and dissolve dirt and grease. And though it’s deemed safe at low levels by the Personal Care Products Council, companies are not required by law to list it in their product labels. Yet according to the CDC, exposure to this chemical can harm eyes, skin, kidneys, and blood.

2. Ammonia

Ammonium hydroxide - or household ammonia - is another ingredient that’s found in many cleaning products. Used for its effectiveness against stains from oils and resistance to streaking, it’s used on glass, countertops, and bathroom surfaces. However, it can cause severe irritation when inhaled. So much so, that prolonged exposure can lead to chronic bronchitis or even asthma. People with asthma are especially at risk when using cleaning products that contain ammonia.

3. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, or “QUATS”

Here’s an antimicrobial that’s used in cleaning products as a disinfectant. Most cleaners labeled as “antibacterial” use this ingredient. Despite this benefit, it’s another strong irritant with evidence that it causes contact dermatitis and possibly even respiratory disorders. No amount of antibacterial properties is worth a potentially chronic condition.

Cleaning can be a way to destress when you’re going through hard times. But it shouldn’t do more harm than good. So we’ve made an all-natural multi-purpose cleaner that infuses orange oil and a plant-based soy surfactant to make a solution that’s safe, effective, and smells absolutely amazing. Now, there’s a better, healthier way to clean your home.