Most of us do not think about the hidden dangers that lie in our homes. We go about our normal routines exposing ourselves to chemicals that may be doing more damage than we realize. When we pick up a bottle of antibacterial spray, we may not consider that the chemicals used to kill those germs we hate may also be doing damage to our skin, lungs, eyes, nose, and throat. In 2019, the US Poison Control Centers reported that household cleaning substances resulted in 7.1% of toxic poisoning related cases and were 2nd on the list of Top 5 Poison Exposures, just behind prescription/non-prescription pain relievers. 77% of all poison exposures were unintentional, with 43% of exposures occurring with children under the age of 5.  While the percentage of household substance poisoning is low, there are steps we can take to make it even lower.

Most household cleaners are safe when used and stored as directed. The level of toxicity for each product depends upon the amount of product used and the length of exposure to the product. Liquid drain clean cleaners have many dangerous chemicals. Overall laundry detergents are responsible for most household poisonings from accidental swallowing, while all cleaners tend to have components that can irritate or burn the eyes, skin, nose, and throat, when inhaled or accidentally ingested. It is key to wear proper gloves, such as latex dishwashing gloves while using household cleaners, no matter how toxic they are. Use of gloves will reduce the exposure to chemicals that may irritate or burn skin, however if these cleaners do splash or make it onto your skin it is important to wash the area right away with soap and water.  It is also a good idea to keep the areas being cleaned well ventilated by opening windows, turning on exhaust fans (such as that above your stove or in your bathrooms) and by using ceiling and floor fans.  Air circulation and protective gloves can reduce the risk of exposure to harsh chemicals and the possibility of burns, or accidental over inhalation.

There are more eco-friendly and all-natural alternatives and products on the market. If after reading the warnings on your cleaning products you decide that this is the way to go for you then you will be happy to know that your local big box stores, grocery stores, and even online commerce sites now cater to these alternatives as well.