With the current move to greener lifestyles in the United States, it’s becoming more and more common to find environmentally safe household cleaners. There is another big benefit to these cleaners, however, and that is that many of them are safe for those affected by asthma and/or allergies. The store shelves are stocked with a plethora of cleaners for everything, from toilets to tables, to wood to windows. Most of these cleaners are produced from powerful chemical components which can be quite harmful, especially to asthma and allergy sufferers. They emit fumes which often exacerbate asthma and allergy symptoms. Cleaning becomes not only a household chore, but something which can lead to dangerous reactions for these people.

Can you buy something that cleans that isn’t filled with chemicals, which are not only bad for the environment, but also bad for our respiratory tracts?

After a little research, here is what I’ve found. I’ve tried some of these, too!

• Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Aromatherapeutic Household Cleaners
These products, ranging from laundry detergents to cleaners to baby supplies, are a mixture of water, plant derived ingredients, essential oils and other fragrance raw materials. There are no solvents, no petroleum distillates, no bleach, no phosphates and no ingredients that could cause harsh fumes. Most of the products have a near neutral pH that makes them safe for skin contact. Due to the fragrances, some allergies may occur if you are allergic to the specific fragrance, i.e. lavender or orange. I’ve used these; they smell fantastic and don’t have the harsh chemicals. But do be aware of the strong fragrances. Can be bought online at Drugstore.com.

• Organic Choice Cleaner
Organic Choice All Purpose Cleaner/Degreaser is an environmentally safe and economical cleaning product; it’s water based and is considered non-hazardous by OSHA. None of the ingredients are hazardous, carcinogenic or banned chemical agents. It is designed to eliminate and neutralize the allergens that can commonly be found around in the home as well as clean in a multitude of tasks. Can be bought at Allergiesplus.com.

• Seventh Generation
A complete line of non-toxic cleaning products that don’t create fumes or leave residues that may affect the health of those with asthma or allergies. Products even come in “free & clear” which have no added fragrance and Seventh Generation confirms these products are hypo-allergenic through independent testing. Seventhgeneration.com.

• Vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda
The most basic of the basics. These alone or in combination can do wonders for all over your house. Vinegar is a great all around cleaner (and can get rid of ants, too). The smell goes away when it dries. Lemons have a great smell and can be mixed with vinegar or baking soda to clean pots and pans. Baking soda is great if you some abrasion. There are no harsh chemicals here to hurt your skin or bother with allergies or asthma.

- Heather Legg

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