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Non-Toxic Spring Cleaning

Organization: Erin Falco RDN, Inc.

Authors: Veronica Rechten MSc

Publish Date: 3/30/23


Disclaimer: Posts containing affiliate links may generate a small commission on purchases made from clicking directly from this blog. Note that not all links published on our blog are affiliate links.


It's officially spring and, for many of us, that means...spring cleaning! Opening the windows, dusting out those hidden corners, but before you bust out all of the sprays and soaps, let's talk about the best ways to cut the grime without damaging your health!


Are my current cleaning supplies safe?

There are tons of products on the market that do a great job at cleaning the worst messes...unfortunately not all of them are totally safe for our health. Here are a few examples of what might be found in your average household cleaners:


Cancer causers: Formaldehyde, and 1,4-dioxane (an unintentional byproduct in creating synthetic ingredients) are two big culprits in cleaners for increased risk of cancer . A study in 2010 (Zota) showed that women who used cleaning products with these known cancer-causing chemicals were twice as likely to have been diagnosed with breast cancer as those who did not.


Endocrine disruptors: Many products we use in our cleaning supplies (and body care) can cause harmful changes in hormonal functions. This includes issues with fertility, altered fetal development, and increased risk of cancer. Look out for triclosan & triclocarban (added for their antimicrobial properties); synthetic fragrances (perfume, or parfum) which contain phthalates, and methylisothiazolinone (a preservative found in cleaning products).

Respiratory irritants: Cleaning products are notorious for causing allergic reactions, and/or irritation to skin, eyes, and lungs. This is especially bad for those with asthma. Be wary of products with added fragrances, bleach, and enzymes that break down soil and stains in detergents.



What are some better options?

We live in a time where folks are starting to catch on to the fact that many of these chemicals that we use in our homes every day may not be great for our health. That's good news for those of us who want better options! Below are some great products that clean great without the compromise!


365 - liquid laundry soap (found at Whole Foods)


Also, while not technically for cleaning, check out our blog post on non-toxic candles to brighten up your space and add some fragrance that you can be confident in!



Can't I just make my own?

You sure can! There are many effective cleaning supplies that you can make out of products you may already have in your house!


All purpose cleaner:

  • 1 part white distilled vinegar*

  • 1 part water

  • 1 lemon rind (or 20 drops of lemon essential oil)

Combine in a reusable glass spray bottle. Don't use on granite or stainless steel due to the acidity of the cleaner


Heavy duty cleaner and deodorizer:

  • 4 tablespoons baking soda

  • 1 quart warm water

Make a paste using the baking soda and water. Use on grimy counters, appliances, and down garbage disposals


Glass cleaner:

  • 2 cups water

  • 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar*

  • 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol (70% concentration)

Combine ingredients into a glass bottle. Spray and wipe down glass with a paper towel or microfiber cloth.


Bathroom cleaner:

  • 1.5 cups baking soda

  • 1/2 cup warm water

  • 1/2 cup liquid dish soap

  • 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar*

Combine in a bottle or jar, and use on the shower, the sink, and the tile!


Toilet cleaner:

  • 1 cup baking soda

  • 15 drops of tea tree essential oil

  • 15 drops of lemon or orange essential oil

Let mixture sit in the bowl for 30 minutes, then scrub with a brush and flush!



*while vinegar cleans the best, we know that the smell can be a bit unsavory. Luckily, a cheap vodka will also do the trick. You can also spray vodka mixed with essential oils on your fabrics in place of Febreze!

 

We hope that you found this post helpful in cleaning up your cleaning supplies! If you make any of the cleaning recipes, we'd love to see them! Tag us on instagram HERE! Have a happy and healthy spring!

 

If you need more nutritional support, visit us at www.erinfalcordn.com for more posts, recipes and webinars, or contact us for a discovery call to become a patient.






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