Less Toxic Alternatives to Household Chemicals

A number of commercial cleaning products are toxic or have the potential to harm human health and the environment.  Did you know that the phosphates found in some soaps and detergents can cause algae blooms that suffocate fish?  Chlorine-based compounds can form harmful organochlorines including some that may cause cancer.  Petroleum-based products are slow to break down in the environment and contain impurities that contaminate air and water.

In addition, pesticides are potentially harmful to human health and the environment.  Over half of the poisoning incidents related to pesticides involve your children and pets.  Pesticide runoff from lawns can spill down driveways and gutters, making their way into storm drains and other natural waterways.  Some pesticide products harm fish, frogs, and other animals that live in the water; they are also toxic to birds, bees and beneficial insects. 

Solvents, oil based paints, stains, and lacquers can be hazardous to users.  When stored in homes, garages, and sheds, they can threaten the health and safety of firefighters and rescue workers when an incident occurs.  Some of these products can even be the cause of explosions and fires when they are stored improperly.  In addition, solvents and other oil based paint products have been identified as potential contributors to air pollution. 

There are less toxic alternatives.

Baking soda can be used as a mild abrasive cleaner. 

 It is an alternative to chlorine or silica-based scouring products, which can have harmful effects on humans and animals.

Borax can be used as a general purpose cleaner. 

It is considered an effective alternative to chlorine or silica-based scouring products, which can have harmful effects on humans and animals.

Boric acid is used to control cockroaches and ants. 

Boric acid is very effective for long-term pest control.  It can take several weeks or months to be effective, it should not be considered an immediate control measure.

Hydrogen peroxide can be used as a general purpose cleaner and bleach.  

It is considered to be an effective alternative to chlorine based compounds.  Hydrogen peroxide is naturally occurring and has no significant environmental effects.

Linseed oil is an effective alternative to solvent based wood preservatives, sealers, polishes, waxes, and finishes. 

Linseed oil is available in two forms: raw and boiled.  Raw linseed oil is practically non-toxic, but boiled linseed oil should be avoided because certain additives may be toxic to the liver.

Vinegar can be used as a general purpose cleaner, hard surface cleaner, and glass cleaner.  

It is an alternative to ammonia based cleaners and other corrosive products.