Cleaning Products for Better Indoor Air Quality

Doing dishes, washing a load of laundry, and cleaning your home are all necessary things.  They might not be chores we always want to do, but they have to get done.  However, there may be a good reason to avoid doing some of these chores.  More so than just not being very fun, cleaning tasks can actually be dangerous.  This is due to the chemicals found in many cleaning products that are terrible for indoor air quality and cause adverse health effects.

Many cleaning products, including aerosol sprays, rug cleaners, and dish washing detergent contain Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs.  The American Lung Association informs us, “VOCs and other chemicals released when using cleaning supplies contribute to chronic respiratory problems, allergic reactions and headaches.”

So, how can you keep your home clean AND keep the air clean?  Thankfully, there are other options out there than just chemical filled cleaners.

DIY Cleaners

Much of your cleaning needs can be accomplished with DIY cleaning products.  Often they are made up of a combination of distilled white vinegar, baking soda, citrus, and essential oils.  Not only will these DIY cleaners be much better for the air that your breathe, they are much, much safer to use in homes with young children.  Click here for some DIY recipes from Greatist.

Natural Store Bought Cleaners

If you don’t have the time to make DIY cleaners, there are some store bought options available from the following renowned brands:

Mrs. Meyers

Method

J.R. Watkins

Better Life

Ecover

Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap

Keep in mind, that products advertised as ‘natural,’ may not always be all that they are cracked up to be.  The EPA advises, “Purchasers should be especially careful in interpreting vague or generic claims such as “environmentally friendly,” “eco safe,” etc. Purchasers should ask vendors and manufacturers offering green cleaning products to clearly and specifically define their green claims.”

Looking for more advice on keeping your home’s air fresh and clean?  Contact us at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical!