The smell of some cleaners alone is enough to alert us to the present of some chemical or toxin. But when is this a necessary evil to properly disinfect our home, and when is it worth looking into natural cleaners? What are “green” cleaners, “organic” disinfectants? How can you tell the ones that work from those that do little more than add some shine to your counter?
What’s wrong with industrial strength cleaners? It does depend on the individual sensitivity and the environment in which it is used, but there may be some problems. Volatile organic compounds, used to enhance the performance of a product, can impair neurological functions, while other chemicals can act as respiratory irritants, carcinogens or reproductive toxins, depending upon the extent of exposure, according to the National Environmental Trust and other environmental groups. Continue Reading →
