Spring Cleaning

Detoxify, cleanse, and organize

As spring rolls in, we all have the urge to crack open some windows and clean the built-up grim from the past winter months.

It’s great to finally do some deep cleaning and feel the warm, outdoor breeze, but cleaning supplies often leave a suffocating chemical smell. Instead, try non-toxic cleaners to keep the air you breathe clean! Smell the fresh air, not the harsh chemicals.

There are a few major toxins you want to avoid when using or shopping for household cleaning supplies.

Avoid common endocrine disruptors such as

• Phthalates (found in fragrances and absorbed through skin),
• Triclosan (found in antibacterial soaps and detergents),
• Alkylphenols,
• and nonylphenolethoxylate (Found in cleaners, degreasers, foaming cleaners, air fresheners)

Avoid carcinogens including

• Benzene (found in fragrances used in Laundry detergents and fabric softeners),
• Diethanolamine (DEA) and Triethanolamine (TEA) (Found in all-purpose cleaners, liquid laundry detergent, dishwashing detergents),
• Linear alkyl sodium sulfonates (LAS),
• and petroleum distillates.

The problem with these chemicals is that once they have been sprayed, wiped, or rinsed inside of your room, they gradually turn into dust and have a long-shelf life.

All this information can be overwhelming to take in at once so you may ask, “Where do I even start?” Use the EWG’s guide to find safer alternatives or make homemade cleaners that work just as well. Another benefit of DIY cleaners is that they are much cheaper!

Cleaning your new summer room or your old apartment may not be your favorite way to pass the time, but you can feel a lot better knowing that you’re avoiding endocrine disruptors and carcinogens with nontoxic products.

And as a tip for cleaning, remember to clean the floors last!