April is Earth Month ... Care for the Earth and Your Body by Reducing Chemical Cleaning Products in the Home

When we consider taking care of the planet we usually think of recycling. We also need to consider REDUCING our consumption of chemicals in our homes. Not only is it a poor choice environmentally, but also medically.

Environmentally, one should avoid chemical cleaners as the chemicals eventually can get back into the water supply and cause havoc. Some communities have annual drives to collect household chemicals (ammonia, bleach, fertilizers, and paint stains to name a few) to properly dispose of them (US Fed News Service). These are opportunities for you to drop off the old ... to make room for the new. When I do a Google search for household chemical waste disposal and (name your city) insert San Diego (where I live) I find details for drop-off locations for household cleaners, paint, medications, and pesticides. What does your city offer?



In 2012 a study was published in Environmental Health Perspectives stating "endocrine disruptors and asthma-related chemicals [have been found] in a wide range of cosmetics, personal care products, cleaners, sunscreens, and vinyl products".  As a result of this study, researchers began to delve deeper into isolating which chemicals caused the medical problems from asthma, thyroid disruptions, hormone imbalances, and cancer. They are pushing for better labeling of consumer products.

I rely on cleansers to wash the items that do not go into the dishwasher. Most of the cleaning compounds I use are homemade recipes with limited ingredients. 

Healthier choices, that do not compromise cleaning effectiveness, include plant based products and "family recipes" to make your own cleansers.  Be kind to the environment and your body and transition to plant based cleaners today (while properly recycling your old containers). The next time you need a new product, look for a plant based product. If you need any suggestions on where to start or what products are best, just ask!