Overhauling your household cleaners.

Want to know more about the toxic additives to look out for in detergents, cleaners, soaps and skincare? We’ve got it covered.

Toxicity can occur in our body from the build-up of petrochemicals, and harmful synthetics that are added to skincare, oral hygiene, laundry, and household cleaners we use daily.

While there is much focus on the role of diet and consuming health food in our conversations – often its’s the products we expose our skin to that get left behind. Our skin is in fact our largest organ, so what we choose to put on or expose it to on a daily base, matters to our overall wellbeing. Affecting not only our cellular health, aging affects, liver & kidney function to detox from but also our hormone system and mental wellbeing.

Don’t feel overwhelmed here – instead try swapping out one product at aa time OR one area of focus such as the laundry. Every small change is a step forward to allowing your body the best chance to function at its optimal best.

Nasties to look out for:

Ammonia

A poisonous gas often used in cleaning products, and used in fertilizer this can be extremely irritating to eyes & kin, not to mention the respiratory tract if inhaled. This corrosive chemical is something we also don’t like to see washed down the drain to impact ocean life and the earth.

Benzotriazoles (BZTs)

Petrochemicals which are often found in cleaning products (dishwashing powders, shampoos, surfaces cleaners and soaps), they can also be found in the lining of plastic containers. There has been links to endocrine disruption.

Synthetic Dyes & Perfumes

Usually added to boost vibrancy of colour and smell in any household cleaners, skincare items, personal hygiene products – even toothpaste & mouthwashes! Many are derived from non-renewable coal tar or petrochemicals which are carcinogenic & irritating to eyes, lungs and the skin. Not only damaging to our cells, but once released into waterways can affect aquatic life and waterways.

Parabens

Another chemical linked to hormone & endocrine disruption, these are preservatives commonly found in personal care products (deodorants, body lotions etc) to help inhibit the growth of bacteria and extending shelf life. Parabens such as propylparaben, butylparaben and methylparaben are easily absorbed in the body and mimic oestrogen – so the more exposure you have to these, the increase in oestrogen levels within your body.

Phosphates

Derived from phosphorus and mainly used in dishwashing & laundry detergents can cause environmental damage when released into waterways. When entering waterways, phosphates can increase some algae populations, which can reduce the amount of essential oxygen available to aquatic life.

Our top tips!

1. Less is more! There are some wonderful cleaning products that are multi-use! We love Dr Bronners range as it can be diluted and used as a laundry detergent, household cleaner, body wash – it can even be used on the car and dog! Also look at your consumption of use during each clean – are you over-pouring thinking you need more to clean better?
2. Start with items closest to your skin: Deodorants and moisturisers are great ones to start with, as any chemicals in your current personal care items are immediately absorbed into your skin and lymphatic system.
3. Check the fragrance factor: Cleaning products often have excessive fragrance infused to make us feel they are doing a better job at keeping things fresh & clean. If you are wanting more oomph from your chemical free cleaners in this department, try adding a few drops of essential oils for the same affect without the hazardous and skin irritating toxins.

Not sure where to start?
Ask our team in store which products they are loving for some inspiration and personal insight!

*Flannerys Members SAVE 15% off Storewide once a month – including household cleaning and personal care. See in store for the next Members Day Sale date.

Click here to explore articles written by our naturopaths.