Everyday, we use a variety of cleaning products to sanitize our homes, leaving them spotless and smelling fresh. Yet, as we strive for domestic hygiene, we must also be conscious about what's in the cleaning products we use. Some of the components these products contain can be problematic not only for our health, but also for the environment.
Roberta Gene, a brand that stands firmly behind the concept of non-toxic, eco-friendly home essentials, holds a core belief that cleaning your home shouldn't mean filling it with chemicals. Whether it's the irresistibly aromatic Wood Wick Candle, or the soothing touch of the Organic Lip Balm, each one of Roberta Gene's products reaffirms the brand's mission for safer and greener alternatives.
Today, we aim to raise awareness about some commonly used toxic ingredients in cleaning products that we should all strive to avoid:
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs as they are commonly called, are chemicals found in many cleaning products. VOCs vaporize at room temperature, leading to their release into the indoor air we breathe. The health effects of VOCs can range from mild allergic reactions and headaches to more severe issues including respiratory problems.
Surprisingly, even natural fragrances like citrus, often hailed as 'safe' alternatives, can also emit VOCs indoors. As a result, they contribute to indoor air pollution, cellular damage and allergies. Choosing products that are labeled 'low VOC' or 'VOC free' can drastically reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals.
Let's take a closer look at some VOCs commonly found in cleaning products:
- Benzene: This VOC is found in detergents and wax removers and has been associated with various forms of leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, according to the American Cancer Society.
- Toluene: Often added for its solvent properties, toluene is used in a multitude of products, including disinfectants, paint removers, and adhesives. High exposure to toluene has been linked to problems in the central nervous system and respiratory issues.
- Ethanol: Ethanol is frequently used in glass cleaners, laundry detergents, and stain removers due to its excellent solvent properties. It can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues and is also highly flammable.
- Formaldehyde: Used as a disinfectant and bactericide, formaldehyde is a carcinogen and can cause skin and respiratory irritations even at low levels. It’s often found in air fresheners and bathroom cleaners.
- 1,2-Butylene Oxide: Used in metal and floor polishes, this compound is known to cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and nausea.
- Methylene Chloride: Often found in paint strippers and degreasers, exposure to this potent VOC can lead to symptoms ranging from headaches, dizziness, numbness, and memory loss.
Aerosol Products
Aerosol products, while convenient, are notorious carriers of toxic chemicals. These are commonly found across categories such as health, beauty, and certainly, cleaning products. By propelling product content through a spray, aerosol cans significantly increase the risk of inhaling harmful compounds directly into the lungs. Several studies link prolonged exposure to aerosols with health crises including asthma, heart conditions and even temporary hearing loss.
Roberta Gene encourages its community to make conscious and informed decisions in their cleaning routines. Replacing commercial cleaning products loaded with harsh and harmful chemicals with safe, non-toxic alternatives, like the Roberta Gene Compostable Loofah Sponge, becomes a significant first step in that direction.
We, at Roberta Gene, are dedicated to providing alternative solutions to these harmful products. Keeping your home pristine should never come at the cost of your health or the environment. Learn more tips and tricks to keep your home clean the eco-friendly way by checking out our blog.