CCAT - Non-toxic Household

Non-toxic Household
Toxic chemicals are dangerous to human health and the environment. Ironically, some of the most common products used in everyday cleaning contain toxic chemicals. According to Debra Lynn Dadd, author of the book Nontoxic, Natural, & Earthwise, "every year 5 to 10 million household poisonings are reported as the result of accidental exposure to toxic products in the home." Health-related problems caused by synthetic and toxic products range from mild nausea to death.

In the environment, contamination of drinking water and animal species loss are the result of toxic chemicals disposed into public water systems. There is no good reason to use harmful chemicals when alternatives are so easily made and readily available. These products have proven just as effective as common commercial products, yet are safe for you and the environment. Many household cleaners, including all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, floor cleaner, and bathroom cleaner can be made at home using ingredients such as baking soda, Borax, vinegar, and liquid soap. Besides these, there are non-toxic alternatives for laundry detergent, paint, paint remover, varnish, furniture or floor polish, drain cleaners, shampoo, and others that can be homemade or purchased.

Cleaners
Non-toxic Household Cleaners [PDF 38.4KB]
HSU Student Handout

Non-toxic Alternatives to Common Household Products
HSU Student Project by Tracie Schulz and Michael Padget (December 7, 2001)