Let's Get Spring Cleaning!
With the nicer weather happening now...and yes I'm aware that it can change at any moment...it gets me in the mood to deep clean my house, garage, and yard. Yes I know that sounds ambitious, and I'll be real with you it probably won't happen, but if you are catching the spring cleaning bug as well let's talk chemicals. Chemicals? Yes, those cleaning products that we use to keep our house free of germs and smells can have some pretty harmful chemicals in them.
Almost every single cleaning product today will contain some kind of toxin or dangerous substance. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has noted that many household cleaners contain volatile organic compounds or VOCs, such as formaldehyde and other harsh acids. This is important because exposure to VOCs can lead to several symptoms including: eye, nose and throat irritation; headaches; nausea; liver, kidney and central nervous system damage; loss of coordination and more.
Other Indoor Toxins
Besides cleaning products, other household products we use on a daily basis can have just as much toxic effects. Recent studies have shown that the majority of synthetic, brand-name air freshners are toxic as well, so that nice clean smell is actually adding to the toxicity level in your home. Even your shampoos, conditioners, and cosmetics are known to contain chemicals.
Let's Talk Laundry
The skin is out largest organ and extremely absorbent. The chemicals that we use when laundering our clothing may easily be absorbed into our bodies through our skin. However, while that may seem obvious, what many don't know is that we may be inhaling chemicals as well. How we care for our clothing may genuinely be affecting our health. Here are just a few of the harmful chemicals in today's laundry detergent: formaldehyde, ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and 1,4-dioxane (a byproduct of the detergent when used). I know these are big names, but what's so bad about them?
1,4-dioxane is a known carcinogen, and has been found to be toxic to the brain, central nervous system, kidneys, liver and respiratory system. Formaldehyde and EDTA have been known to cause eye irritation, liver problems, and respiratory issues. Dryer sheets and fabric softners also have some and more of these toxins.
Cleaning Green
So then how can we avoid all these chemicals and still get a spotless house? The good news is there are tons of products out there that can be switched out for you regular cleaning supplies...and the even better news a lot of these are safe to have around the house without having them locked away from those crazy kids!
Our daily household cleaners can be replaced by things like: vinegar, essential oils, baking soda, and olive oil. There are also many good green companies out there that have cleaning products without the harsh chemicals, if making your own isn't your style.
Chiropractic Factor
There are three causes of spinal misalignments: physical, emotional and chemical. Yes, chemicals in our environment can actually work against our regular adjustments and wreak havoc with our central nervous system, not to mention some of the side effects the chemicals can have. So if you are experiencing any symptoms while spring cleaning make sure you get in and get checked. Better yet, take the steps to clean green, and if you have any questions on homemade products, or what store bought products are chemical free we are here to answer your questions!