Ingredients to Avoid in Conventional Cleaning Products (and why)

Written By Sam Koster

Not ready to switch to non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning just yet? Here are some common ingredients to watch for in conventional products (and to make sure your cleaner isn’t using in your home):

  1. Ammonia

    • Commonly Found In: Glass cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, bathroom cleaners.

    • Why Avoid?: Irritates eyes, skin, and respiratory system; toxic fumes when mixed with bleach.

  2. Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)

    • Commonly Found In: Bathroom cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, kitchen disinfectants, laundry bleach.

    • Why Avoid?: Causes skin irritation, releases harmful fumes, and damages respiratory health.

  3. Phthalates

    • Commonly Found In: Air fresheners, fragranced cleaning sprays, surface wipes.

    • Why Avoid?: Linked to hormone disruption and reproductive health issues.

  4. Triclosan

    • Commonly Found In: Antibacterial products, disinfecting wipes, and some hand soaps.

    • Why Avoid?: Contributes to antibiotic resistance and disrupts hormones.

  5. Formaldehyde (and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives like Quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin)

    • Commonly Found In: Disinfectants, mildew removers, cleaning wipes (preservatives).

    • Why Avoid?: Carcinogenic and irritates skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

  6. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

    • Commonly Found In: Dishwashing liquids, bathroom cleaners, laundry detergents.

    • Why Avoid?: Irritates skin and eyes, can strip natural oils.

  7. Synthetic Fragrances

    • Commonly Found In: All-purpose cleaners, air fresheners, surface sprays, and bathroom cleaners.

    • Why Avoid?: Can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and asthma.

  8. Petroleum Distillates (Mineral Spirits, Hydrocarbons)

    • Commonly Found In: Heavy-duty degreasers, industrial cleaners.

    • Why Avoid?: Toxic to humans and the environment; linked to cancer.

  9. Butoxyethanol

    • Commonly Found In: Window cleaners, floor cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, and degreasers.

    • Why Avoid?: Irritates eyes, skin, and respiratory system; linked to liver and kidney damage.

  10. Tetrasodium EDTA

  • Commonly Found In: Multi-purpose cleaners, dishwashing liquids.

  • Why Avoid?: Harmful to aquatic life and may irritate skin.

  1. Benzalkonium Chloride

  • Commonly Found In: Disinfecting sprays, surface cleaners, wipes.

  • Why Avoid?: Can irritate skin and is harmful to the environment.

Sam Koster
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