Chemical disinfectants are used in our houses daily to destroy or inhibit the growth of disease-carrying microorganisms. But are these disinfectants safe for our children and our pets? In most cases they aren’t safe for them or the environment. Most cleaning chemicals used today contain harmful ingredients such as alcohols, ammonia, lye, bleach, and formaldehyde. The chemicals we use today are much more dangerous than the bacteria we are trying to clean up.
Children and pets have less developed immune systems than an adult so they are not as protected against toxic exposures. Chemicals used today can cause asthma, cancer, central nervous system disorders, birth defects, and death. Scientists are finding that chemical exposure is leading to learning disabilities and behavior problems in children. Toxins enter the body in several ways. When toxins are inhaled the poisons enter the bloodstream and can harm organs such as the brain, kidneys, liver, and heart. Vapors can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation as well as cause headaches and sinus infections. Toxins can be absorbed into the skin, causing irritation, from a surface that was cleaned days or even weeks ago. When swallowed, these toxins can cause serious internal burns and organ damage.
If you have children or pets it is a good idea to look for a disinfectant that will be safer to use around them and on the things they interact with daily. The Internet, as well as organic and natural grocery stores are good places to find these types of products. When looking, be sure to read the label for any warnings about the product. Make sure that it is child and pet safe. No law requires manufacturers to list the exact ingredients on the package label. Do your research and contact the manufacturers themselves if you have questions about their product. Products that are homemade, organic, and/or biodegradable are the safest but must still be treated as a chemical. Keep chemicals out of the reach of children and pets. It is also a good idea to store chemicals in tightly closed containers and in locked cabinets.
Read the label to familiarize yourself with the intended usage and dangers of the product you are considering purchasing. Most products, if they come into contact with the eye, will require flushing of the eye with plenty of water and medical attention as soon as possible. For ingestion, some chemicals require drinking large amounts of water or milk and some require induction of vomiting. Keep the number for poison control handy. Always protect yourself from inhalation and skin contact by wearing facemasks and gloves. Use each product exactly as specified in the directions. Consider making your own disinfectant from a variety of common household ingredients. These are safer to use around children and pets and are much safer for the environment. Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant. Twenty to thirty drops of tea tree oil combined with 32 ounces of water and 3 tablespoons of mild liquid soap made from olive or vegetable oils makes a great all-around disinfectant.
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral. It can be used as a disinfectant when dissolved in hot water. Borax is toxic if swallowed. A spray of hydrogen peroxide and a spray of white or apple cider vinegar used together acts as a good disinfectant. Vinegar is most effective as a disinfectant when undiluted. It removes mildew and is not likely to pose any environmental or health hazards. Some essential oils can even be used as disinfectants. Try a combination of 4 ounces of water and 12 drops each of lavender, eucalyptus, orange, and thyme. This is guaranteed to make the house smell great. To help keep areas from developing harmful bacteria in the first place, clean with soap and water on a regular basis.
