Everyone wants to have a clean home. But have you stopped to think about how that can contribute to family health? Although we know more about the effects of cleaning products on children than ever before, there is still an overall lack of information.

For instance, the EPA reported that out of 3,000 of the most used chemicals in the U.S., less than seven percent carry a complete list of information on their toxicity. That means only 210 of the chemicals people use show basic facts on the toxicity of their product. What about the other 2,790 chemicals?

We deserve more, and so do our children. Let’s find ways to make our homes safer and more sustainable for our families. It all starts with awareness. With this in mind, here are three negative links between newborn health and cleaning products you may be unaware of:

Poisoning: It has been reported that each year, millions of kids under the age of five are poisoned from cleaning products. The outcomes are devastating, sometimes even leading to death. That’s a critical family health issue.

Allergies and/or breathing problems: Newborn health differs from more mature children. A newborn’s lungs are more sensitive. So, when potent household cleaning products are used, newborns can suffer allergic reactions and asthma-like symptoms.

The Unknown: What’s scarier: Knowing the possible negative effects of cleaning products, or not knowing? With the lack of information surrounding the topic, we must consider that in addition to poisoning and breathing complications, there could also be unknown health risks. That’s a lot to consider regarding family health and wellness.

Looking for safer solutions to cleaning? According to an ExperienceLife.com article, there are several ways you can make cleaning fun and safe for your loved ones. Check out these easy-to-follow ways:

• Basic sink cleanser — Combine ½ cup baking soda with six drops essential oil (such as lavender, rosemary, lemon, lime or orange). Rinse sink well with hot water. Sprinkle combination into sink and pour ¼ cup vinegar over top. After the fizz settles, scrub with a damp sponge or cloth. Rinse again with hot water. (From The Naturally Clean Home, by Karyn Siegel-Maier.)
• Oven cleanser — Put a heatproof dish filled with water in the oven. Turn on the heat to let the steam soften any baked-on grease. Once the oven is cool, apply a paste of equal parts salt, baking soda, and vinegar, and scrub. (From Super Natural Home, by Beth Greer.)
• Bathroom mildew remover — Good ventilation helps prevent mildew and mold. When they do occur, make a spray with 2 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon each of tea-tree and lavender oil. Shake first and spray on trouble spots. The oils break down the mildew so there’s no need to wipe it down. (From Green Interior Design, by Lori Dennis.)
• Carpet shampoo — Mix 3 cups water, ¾ cup vegetable-based liquid soap, and 10 drops peppermint essential oil. Rub the foam into soiled areas with a damp sponge. Let dry thoroughly and then vacuum. (From The Naturally Clean Home.)
• Laundry soap — Try “soap nuts” made from the dried fruit of the Chinese soapberry tree. Available in natural groceries and online, the reusable soap nuts come in a cotton sack that goes into the washing machine with clothes.
• Dusting — Skip the furniture polishes. Instead, use a microfiber cloth. Made from synthetic fibers that are then split into hundreds of smaller microfibers, they capture dust more efficiently than regular rags. If necessary, a little olive oil makes a fine polishing agent.

Learn more about how everyday cleaning products can have a harmful effect on family health (and how to avoid them) by reading this blog. Have any comments or questions? Share them in the comment section below!