Spring into Action: Safer Cleaning for the Home

Spring is the time we open our windows to let in the fresh air. Spring cleaning is also a great opportunity to think about reducing our exposure to chemicals. Considering we spend 90% of our day indoors, the air we breathe in our home, workplace, or school is especially important to our health.

Many are surprised to learn that the very products they have been using to keep their homes clean can be harmful to their health, pets and the environment. Many cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that are linked to health effects such as asthma, cancer, reproductive harm and liver, kidney and nervous system damage. In most cases, these harsh products are not necessary to keep our homes clean.

Safer alternatives that are just as effective as their toxic counterparts are readily available.

See our Safer Cleaning Factsheet for tips to help you reduce your use of and exposure to hazardous cleaning chemicals.

Tip #1: Avoid fragrances. They are linked to eye, skin and respiratory irritation and endocrine system (hormone) disruption.

Tip #2: Interested in hosting a Green Cleaning Party? Visit www.womensvoices.org to find out how!

Be sure to read upcoming SF Environment newsletters for safer cleaning tips in the future!