Switching to non-toxic cleaning products is one of the most simple, cost-effective ways to start transitioning to a non-toxic lifestyle.⁠ 

Here are 5 popular household cleaning products to avoid and alternatives: 

1. Bleach 

One of the most commonly used cleaning/disinfecting agents. Toxic to aquatic life and dangerous to the respiratory system, endocrine system (hormones), and skin. Bleach also has traces of possible human carcinogenic.

TRY: Alternative "Bleach"

In a container, add 12 cups of water, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide

2. Dish Soap

Dish soap like Dawn contains chemicals like methylisothiazolinone, which is a "high concern" for acute aquatic toxicity. Some concerns are skin irritation and main causes of allergies. Dawn also contains 1 4-dioxane which is considered a groundwater contaminant.

TRY: Alternative "Dish Soap"

In a container, add 1/2 cup distilled water, 1 TB vinegar, 1/2 cup Sal Suds, 1 TB moisturizing oil e.g. coconut oil, olive oil. 

3. Candles

The main culprit in this research: scented paraffin wax candles. Studies have shown that paraffin wax candles release a variety of harmful air pollutants such as benzene and toluene. Both by-products are known carcinogens, meaning they have ability to cause cancer.

TRY: Beeswax candles and soybean candles! 

4. Oven Cleaners

Unfortunately, corrosive alkalis (poisonous ingredients that can cause difficulty breathing, throat swelling, vision loss, abdominal pain, and vomiting) are found in many such products. 

TRY: using baking soda and vinegar! 

5. Dryer Sheets

Conventional dryer sheets contain quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) which are chemicals known to cause asthma. Quats coat clothing to make them feel soft, but that also means toxic substances clings and stay on the clothing transferring to your skin. 

TRY: Wool balls and reusable organic dryer sheets!