Healthy Living: Cleaning Products

According to Robert Rountree, MD, the average home contains 3-10 gallons of hazardous materials. The same products that we use to clean our homes can be toxic to our bodies.

What you can do:

• Take an inventory of your home and all of the products that could be considered "toxic." Be on the lookout for nontoxic alternatives for each one.
• Choose a dishwashing detergent such as Seventh Generation’s, that is both phosphate and chlorine-free. Phosphates can cause algae blooms in lakes and ponds.
• Buy non-chlorine bleach. Chlorine bleach creates toxins that can be harmful to your health. In addition, chlorine fumes may be irritating to breathe for people with allergies and asthma.
• Get rid of unwanted chemicals safely. Contact your local trash collection service to find out how to dispose of them properly. Never dump materials in the backyard.
• If any toxic products do exist in the home, lock and store them in a place where children will not be able to reach them. Remember to lock up prescription, over-the counter medicines, supplements and herbal medicines as well.