The EPA estimates that indoor air pollution can be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoors! Powerful disinfectants cleaners, scented air fresheners, laundry detergent and more all contribute to the pollution that is being trapped in our homes, schools and offices.  

This week on ABC10 I showed some non-toxic alternatives that are better for air quality and your health! See more info below the video.

Laundry 

While a fresh load of clean laundry smells nice, most detergents use synthetic fragrances and there’s a direct correlation between your health and the air you breathe. 

Synthetic fragrances are endocrine disruptors, which can cause an imbalance in hormones, among other health issues. They’ve also shown to suppress the immune system after long term use. Laundry products are NOT required to list the ingredients they use. Look for detergents that are “fragrance-free” or “perfume or dye-free” to reduce exposure to chemicals in laundry products. 

Think about it, the detergent you use is surrounding you all day long from the clothes you wear, to the sheets you sleep on to the bath towels you use. This is why it’s important to find a cleaner alternative. If you like having a scent, try adding essential oils to a cleaner, fragrance-free detergent. 

Branch Basics is a great brand that you can order online. You can find ECOS at Costco and Whole Foods. 

Bathroom 

Bleach is one of the oldest cleaners, but also one of the harshest. It can cause irritation and even burn the skin. Bleach also effects your lungs. Studies have shown links between respiratory issues and disinfectant use in general so it’s not just bleach. These harsh chemicals that effect lung function are in lots of mainstream cleaning products. 

A cleaner and inexpensive alternative is good old vinegar and baking soda! Vinegar has shown to kill germs just as well as harsh cleaners and it’s not toxic to breathe. When you use it with baking soda it will help get your tub, sinks and toilet squeaky clean! 

If you’re fighting mold in the bathroom, hydrogen peroxide works better than bleach and is much safer for your health. 

Kitchen 

Using non-toxic products in the kitchen is especially important because it’s around the food we eat. If you’re trying to eat cleaner and organic having toxic chemicals around just negates that. 

I like to use vinegar in the kitchen as well since we can actually consume vinegar. A kitchen and household cleaner can easily be made using white vinegar and essential oils. 

If you’d prefer to buy, Aunt Fannies is a brand that uses just that- vinegar and essential oils. This is my go-to kitchen cleaner. Check their website to find where it's sold near you. 

For more information on clean and safer products in the home check out the Environmental Working Group.