Some household cleaners-for the kitchen, bathroom, windows and other parts of the house-contain ingredients that may increase risk for cancer and birth defects, irritate the skin or eyes or trigger asthma and other respiratory difficulties.
What you can do
• Make your own cleaners: It is easy to make safe cleaners from ingredients most people already have around the house. And they cost a fraction of any store-bought cleaners. See Resources below for ideas.
• Buy less-toxic cleaners: Stores often sell a variety of less-toxic cleaners, many of which are reasonably priced. Be aware that the words "non-toxic" or "all natural" on the label may not really mean that the product is safer. Consult Green Seal for brands that are certified to be less toxic.
• Use fewer products: Basic cleaners cover a lot of bases. Unlike what the ads try to tell us, there is no need for a different type of cleaner for each room or item in the house.
