Are you using toxic cleaning products without knowing it? Cleaning and laundry products are essential for maintaining hygiene, but many conventional formulas introduce hidden risks. Chemicals such as synthetic surfactants, artificial fragrances, and optical brighteners remain on fabrics, surfaces, and in the air, leading to long-term exposure concerns. Unlike food labels, UK cleaning products are not required to fully disclose ingredients, making it difficult for consumers to identify harmful substances.
Many of these chemicals contribute to indoor air pollution, skin irritation, and environmental harm. Even some ‘eco-friendly’ or ‘green’ cleaning products contain synthetic additives, making it crucial to assess formulations carefully. For individuals with sensitivities, allergies, autoimmune conditions, or respiratory issues, these exposures can have significant health consequences. Switching to non-toxic alternatives ensures safer indoor air, reduced chemical exposure, and better environmental outcomes.
Anionic Surfactants
Anionic surfactants are the most widely used in commercial cleaning products because they produce high foam and have strong grease-cutting properties. However, they are often derived from petroleum and can cause long-term irritation to skin and respiratory tissues.
Studies show that Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity [1]. Additionally, during manufacturing, SLES can become contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a chemical classified as a probable human carcinogen [2]. Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonates (LAS) are another common group of anionic surfactants that are slow to biodegrade, accumulating in our water ecosystems [3].
For those with eczema, rosacea, or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), exposure to these surfactants can exacerbate symptoms. Opting for plant-based alternatives, such as coconut-derived glucosides, offers a safer choice.
Nonionic Surfactants
Nonionic surfactants are frequently marketed as ‘gentle’ and are incorporated into products labelled for mildness or sensitivity. However, many of these surfactants are synthesized through the ethoxylation process, which involves the addition of ethylene oxide—a known hazardous compound. Residual ethylene oxide can remain in the final product, posing potential health risks. According to the US Environmental Working Group (EWG), impurities such as ethylene oxide in nonionic surfactants may cause cancer and genetic defects.
Recently, the US National Toxicology Program (NTP) has identified ethylene oxide as a known human carcinogen, highlighting concerns about its presence as a contaminant in various consumer products [4].
Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEs), a class of nonionic surfactants, are particularly concerning, as they can mimic hormones and interfere with endocrine function. APEs have been found in water sources and marine life, indicating their persistence in the environment [5].
Those prioritising hormone balance, such as individuals managing thyroid dysfunction or fertility issues, should avoid products containing ethoxylated ingredients.
Artificial Fragrances: A Leading Cause of Allergies & Sensitivities
Fragrance is one of the most undisclosed components of cleaning products. Synthetic fragrances often contain dozens or even hundreds of chemicals, some of which release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, decreasing indoor air quality and increasing health risks. A study analysing 25 popular scented consumer products found that they emitted over 100 different VOCs, with none listed on the product labels. These emissions can lead to health issues such as respiratory irritation, headaches, and dizziness [6].
Phthalates, commonly used in artificial fragrances to extend their longevity, have been linked to hormone disruption and respiratory problems [7]. Even ‘natural’ scents can contain synthetic preservatives, so it is important to seek products with full ingredient transparency [8].
Fragrance fixatives are substances used to stabilize and prolong the scent of fragrances in cleaning and personal care products. While they enhance the longevity of scents which is popular, certain synthetic fixatives pose significant health hazards and environmental concerns.
This includes exposure to phthalates that has been associated with:
- Endocrine Disruption: Phthalates can interfere with hormone function, potentially leading to reproductive health problems and developmental issues [9].
- Respiratory Problems: Inhalation of phthalate-containing fragrances may trigger respiratory difficulties, including asthma and other pulmonary conditions [10].
- Allergic Reactions: Phthalates have been linked to skin irritation and allergic responses, such as contact dermatitis [11].
Synthetic musks are also used as fragrance fixatives. These compounds are persistent in the environment and have been detected in human tissue through bioaccumulation [12].
For individuals with auto immune illnesses, MCAS, asthma, or chemical sensitivities, fragrance-free formulations or those scented with organic essential oils are a safer choice.
Brighter Doesn’t Mean Cleaner: The Truth About Optical Brightener
Optical brighteners give the illusion of cleaner clothes by coating fabric with compounds that reflect light. These chemicals do not improve cleaning performance but instead remain on textiles, increasing the likelihood of skin contact and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin [13]. Additionally, optical brighteners do not biodegrade easily, leading to water contamination and disruption of aquatic ecosystems.
Avoiding laundry detergents with brighteners and opting for natural whiteners such as bicarbonate of soda or lemon juice is a safer alternative.
Toxins in Dishwasher Products
Dishwasher detergents often contain harsh chemical agents that leave residues on cutlery and crockery, raising concerns about ingestion. A recent study found that components in rinse aids & dishwasher products, particularly alcohol ethoxylates, can cause epithelial inflammation and damage the gut barrier [14]. The “Epithelial Barrier Hypothesis” is associated with the rise in allergic, autoimmune, and metabolic diseases. These epithelial barrier–damaging agents include toxic substances present in laundry and household detergents, as well as surfactants, enzymes and microplastics all of which are present in conventional dishwasher products.
The research confirmed that household dishwasher detergents contain a wide variety of possible toxic substances including SLS, bleaching agents, enzymes, and artificial perfumes which have been found to be toxic as trace ingredients at up to 1:20,000 dilutions.
Individuals following gut-healing protocols should opt for non-toxic dishwasher powders free from alcohol ethoxylates, harsh surfactants and perfumes.
Cleaning Sprays and Health Risks
Aerosol cleaning sprays are a major source of indoor air pollution. Many sprays contain quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), which have been linked to hormone disruption and asthma [15]. VOCs from aerosol sprays can remain in the air for hours, exposing individuals to harmful compounds with every breath [16].
Switching to refillable spray bottles and using diluted vinegar or castile soap-based cleaners is a healthier alternative.
The Problem with Green Cleaning Products
While many consumers opt for ‘green’ cleaning products believing they are safer, not all are truly non-toxic. Some brands use greenwashing tactics, marketing their products as natural while still including synthetic surfactants, preservatives, and artificial fragrances.
Reading full ingredient lists and looking for certifications that verify sustainability and safety can help avoid misleading claims. True non-toxic products avoid petroleum-based chemicals and prioritise biodegradable, plant-based ingredients.
The Benefits of Organic Cleaning & Laundry: A Healthier Home Starts Here
Switching to certified organic cleaning and laundry products offers multiple advantages for health and the environment. Importantly, Soil Association certification means that every ingredient is listed on the label which is essential for allergy sufferers & those with compromised immune systems. Other benefits include reduced chemical exposure, fewer residues for allergies & sensitive skin, improved air quality, and environmentally friendly & biodegradable products.
Creating a non-toxic home is essential for long-term health and wellbeing and requires understanding ingredient labels and making informed choices about household products. Research shows that making small changes in cleaning habits can lead to significant improvements in both health and environmental impact.
References
[1] Leoty-Okombi S et al. Effect of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Applied as a Patch on Human Skin Physiology and Its Microbiota. Cosmetics 2021, 8(1), 6
[2] European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). 1,4-Dioxane – Substance Evaluation Report. 2021.
[3] Manikkam M, Tracey R, Guerrero-Bosagna C, Skinner MK. Plastics-derived endocrine disruptors and epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of obesity, reproductive disease and sperm epimutations. Reprod Toxicol. 2013; 36:104-116.
[4] National Toxicology Program. Ethylene oxide: report on carcinogens. 15th edition, 13 November 2024.
[5] Guo Y, Kannan K. A survey of phthalates and parabens in personal care products from the United States and its implications for human exposure. Environ Sci Technol. 2013; 47(24):14442-14449.
[6] Potera, C. INDOOR AIR QUALITY: Scented Products Emit a Bouquet of VOCs. Environmental Health Perspectives 2011 Jan; 119(1).
[7] Dodson RE, Nishioka M, Standley LJ, Perovich LJ, Brody JG, Rudel RA. Endocrine disruptors and asthma-associated chemicals in consumer products. Environ Health Perspect. 2012;120(7):935-943.
[8] Myers, I. What are phthalates? News & Insights, EWG. 24 September 2024.
[9] Chahal J.K., Scents & Sensibility. BCMJ 2020; 62(2).
[10] Parsons, J. & Wold, L. How fragrances affect health, and ways to reduce exposure. Health & Discovery, Ohio State University, 6 July 2023.
[11] Zahra Kazemi et al (2022) Evaluation of pollutants in perfumes, colognes and health effects on the consumer: a systematic review. J Environ Health Sci Eng 20(1):589–598.
[12] Pastor-Nieto, M-A & Gatica-Ortega M-E. Ubiquity, Hazardous Effects, and Risk Assessment of Fragrances in Consumer Products. Curr Treat Options Allergy. 2021 Jan 23;8(1):21–41.
[13] Belsito, D.V. et al. Allergic contact dermatitis to detergents: a multicenter study to assess prevalence. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002 Feb; 46(2):200-6
[14] Ogulur, I et al. Gut epithelial barrier damage caused by dishwasher detergents and rinse aids. Food allergy and gastrointestinal disease February 2023, Volume 151, Issue 2 p 469-484.
[15] Zock JP, Plana E, Jarvis D, Antó JM, Kromhout H, Kennedy SM, et al. The use of household cleaning sprays and adult asthma. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2007;176(8):735-741.
[16] Hamann CR, Hamann D, Egekvist H, Menné T, Johansen JD. Fabric detergents, detergents and enzyme-based cleaners may cause skin irritation. Contact Dermatitis. 2014;71(3):141-149.