Have you ever wondered if your household cleaning products are toxic? Have you ever thought to actually look at the ingredients list and see what you’re spraying all over your kitchen, bathroom, floors, table tops, laundry, dishes, pet’s toys and the rest?

Most people don’t think about the toxic ingredients lurking in their cleaning products, but the scary truth is that they’re much more dangerous than we think.

What’s the alternative? Switch to all-natural, non-toxic cleaning products.

They’re much safer, you’ll dramatically decrease your risk of poisoning and you’ll do your bit for the environment too. Here are 7 toxic cleaning ingredients to avoid in your household.

1) Ammonia – found in polishing products and glass cleaner. Known to be a powerful irritant particularly for those with asthma and lung problems who will feel the effects immediately.

2) Sodium hydroxide – found in oven cleaners and drain unblockers. It’s extremely corrosive and will cause severe burns to the skin. Inhaling sodium hydroxide can lead to a sore throat too. Baking soda paste is a good natural alternative that works just as well.

3) Triclosan – found in liquid dishwashing detergent, toothpaste and deodorant.  Triclosan is an antibacterial agent that can cause antibacterial resistance and promote the growth of drug-resistant bacteria.

4) 2-Butoxyethanol – found in multi-purpose, window and kitchen cleaners. If inhaled can cause a sore and irritated throat. Diluted vinegar is a great alternative and leaves mirrors sparkly clean and smear free.

5) Chlorine – found in laundry whiteners and toilet bowl cleaners. Chlorine is a powerful irritant and can cause poisoning if inhaled or ingested.

6) Phthalates – found in air fresheners and soaps. If inhaled, can cause damage to internal organs such as the lungs, kidney, liver and reproductive system.

7) Quarternary ammonium compounds – found in fabric softner liquids and antibacterial washes. Can breed antibiotic resistant bacteria and a 10 year study found ‘quats’ to be a leading cause of skin dermatitis.

Have you found any of these ingredients hiding in your cleaning cupboard? Or do you have any natural alternatives you can recommend? We’d love to hear them!