Disinfect Without Dangerous Chemicals

Killing germs is important, but, so too is avoiding dangerous toxins. Products containing unnecessary chemical ingredients are simply swapping one problem for another. Now you can have a sanitary, germ free house without risking the well being of loved ones or the environment. Safe disinfectants kill germs without exposing you and your family to dangerous chemicals. Instead, they utilize safer more natural ingredients. Brose our recommended collection of safe and effective alternative disinfectants... 

Sodium hypochlorite, AKA bleach is widely used in household disinfectant products. While it is a highly effective antimicrobial agent, it comes with a dangerous cost. Bleach has been linked to many serious health issues. This includes cancer, respiratory issues and reproductive toxicity. It is also a frequent cause of fatal poisoning in children. ​People with asthma or allergies are especially vulnerable. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), advises these individuals to avoid bleach usage.

EPA-registered disinfectants must clearly indicate the chemical names of active ingredients. ​When products contain bleach, manufacturers typically list the active ingredient as "Sodium Hypochlorite". Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate is another ingredient name that can indicates the presence of bleach. Other Common product names for bleach can include "Regular Bleach" or "Household Bleach". Branded names like "Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach". ​The presence of chlorine (hypochlorite) is also indicated by its distinctive chlorine smell. ​

​QAC's (sometimes called “Quats”) are distinguishable by a central nitrogen atom attached to four other groups. This gives them a positive charge that kills germs, bacteria, viruses, and fungi. ​For decades, they have been common ingredients for many disinfectant products. This includes sprays, wipes, and hand sanitizers. Yet, even though QAC's are good at fighting germs, there are growing safety concerns. QACs are known to have a wide-range of adverse effects. ​They are associated with occupational asthma, reproductive issues and antimicrobial resistance. These compounds also have allergic potential. They can cause dermatitis, mitochondrial dysfunction and potential neurodegenerative diseases. Environmentally, ​QAC's can accumulate in our soil and waterways. This ongoing contamination negatively impacts the health of wildlife and aquatic populations.

It's important to note, once introduced, QAC's don't disappear quickly. In homes, they can linger on surfaces or in household dust. In our environment, they remain in soils and sediments for long periods of time. This longevity means a greater risk of exposure over time.

To verify the presence of QACs, check the ingredient list on the product's label or its Safety Data Sheet (SDS)​. You'll likely find chemical names that often end in ​​​​​​"ammonium chloride". ​QACs are chemicals often found in antimicrobial products like disinfectants and sanitizers. ​ ​Common QACs include Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC or BKC) and Didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC). ​Also, watch out for words like "quaternium" followed by a number (e.g., quaternium-15), or ending in "-onium". Additionally, some product labels might feature a "dead fish and tree" pictogram. This warns that the product is harmful to aquatic life and the environment. It is also a potential indicator of the presence of QACs.

​Artificial fragrances and dyes are frequently added to disinfectant products. The purpose is to make them more appealing to consumers. ​But, these synthetic scents and colors can pose serious health risks. ​Fragrance chemicals can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, headaches, nausea, and more. ​Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are found in both synthetic and natural  fragrances. This includes essential oils, often touted as being safe and natural. VOC's are a major contributor of indoor air pollution. ​Synthetic dyes can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, itching, and eczema. ​Daily exposure to harsh dyes and artificial perfumes can build up toxic levels in the body. Children and pregnant individuals are particularly at risk.

The word "fragrance" on a product label can be very misleading. This term can encompass up to hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. Legally, individual fragrance ingredients do not require full disclosure. They are considered proprietary trade secrets under U.S. ​law. ​Manufacturers are more than happy to take advantage of this legal loophole. Even products labeled "unscented" may still contain fragrance chemicals to mask other odors. To be assured a product contains no added fragrance, look for the terms "Fragrance Free" or "Free & Clear".

Dyes on labels are usually identified by their color name followed by a number, such as "yellow-5" or "red-40". ​Dyes might also be listed as "Color added". In this case, they might include ingredients like annatto or optical brighteners.

In the advent of COVID, we have all become painfully aware of how the spread of germs can impact our health and well being. Use of natural cleaners allows you to sanitize cleanse surface areas without exposure to toxic chemicals. Yet, cleaning alone is not enough to keep you safe. If using a disinfectant is not part of your routine, you are only spreading germs from one surface to another. The biggest problem is most people are still using disinfectants loaded with dangerous chemicals. This seems pretty counterintuitive when you consider the surface and airborne toxins these chemicals leave behind. Keeping yourself, loved ones and co-workers free from these dangers is attainable.