As a business owner, maintaining a clean and sanitized environment is essential for employee health, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation. However, many commercial cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can pose serious health risks and environmental damage. Learn about some of the most harmful cleaning chemicals you should avoid using in your business and discover safer, eco-friendly alternatives.

10 Harmful Cleaning Chemicals You Should Avoid

1. Ammonia: This common ingredient in window and floor cleaners is a powerful irritant that can cause respiratory problems, skin burns, and eye damage. You can find it in window and oven cleaners and floor strippers.

2. Chlorine Bleach: While effective in disinfecting surfaces, chlorine bleach releases harmful fumes that can irritate the respiratory system and eyes. Additionally, it can damage fabrics and furniture. It is present in bleach, pool cleaners, and bathroom disinfectants.

3. Triclosan: This antibacterial agent is present in soaps and disinfectants but has links to endocrine disruption and antibiotic resistance.

4. Phthalates: Many cleaners use these chemicals as fragrance carriers, but they can negatively impact reproductive and developmental stages.

5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Found in many cleaning products, VOCs release harmful gases that contribute to poor indoor air quality and can cause respiratory problems, headaches, and dizziness.

6. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUATS): Used in disinfectants and sanitizers, QUATS can irritate the skin and eyes and are also suspected to contribute to antibiotic resistance.

7. Sodium Hydroxide: This highly alkaline substance is present in drain cleaners and oven cleaners, but it can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes.

8. Perchloroethylene (PERC): PERC is a carcinogen that can cause liver and kidney damage in some dry cleaning solutions.

9. 2-Butoxyethanol: Many degreasers use this solvent, which can irritate the skin and eyes and potentially harm reproductive health.

10. Sulfates: These foaming agents are in many cleaning products but can dry out and irritate the skin.

What are the Alternatives?

Fortunately, there are many safer and healthier alternatives to harmful cleaning chemicals. Look for products that have natural ingredients, such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These cleaners are just as effective as their chemical counterparts without the harmful side effects.

Here are some tips for using safer cleaning products:

  • Read labels carefully: Always check the ingredients list before purchasing a cleaning product.
  • Ventilate well: Open windows and doors when using cleaning products to ensure proper air circulation.
  • Wear gloves and protective gear: Wear gloves and other protective gear when using harsh chemicals.
  • Store chemicals safely: Keep cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Hire a green cleaning service: Consider hiring a professional cleaning service that uses eco-friendly cleaning products and methods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, avoiding harmful cleaning chemicals and choosing safer alternatives can create a healthier and more sustainable environment for your business. Remember, your employees’ and customers’ health and well-being should always be your top priority.

Hire Integrity Facility Services and Go Green!

Integrity Facility Cleaning, Inc. is committed to providing our clients with safe and effective cleaning solutions. That’s why we offer eco-friendly products that are good for the environment and disinfect your business to protect your employees and customers. 

Contact us today to learn more about our eco-friendly cleaning alternatives for your business. Call 404-530-0811 or visit our website for a free consultation on our commercial cleaning services.