Using a disinfectant to clean your home seems like the right thing to do. What you really need to pay attention to is the type of product you are using.
Disinfectant cleaners usually divide into two big categories: conventional products and natural products.
The first category of cleaning items is more likely to contain chemicals, which can be harsh and harmful to you.
A natural disinfectant cleaner is designed to deliver the same results, but without using harsh ingredients. It kills bacteria and cleans your home.
Using a natural disinfectant cleaner can be really beneficial for you and your home.
Benefits of using a natural disinfectant cleaner
No harsh chemicals
The ingredients list is the main difference between a conventional and a natural disinfectant cleaner.
Conventional products usually contain harsh ingredients. Their purpose is to kill bacteria and leave your home clean and sparkling.
The problem with these chemicals is they can make bacteria stronger and more resistant. How?
When cleaning your home with a product which contains antibacterial ingredients (e.g. triclosan), there is a chance you may miss some bacteria. The bacteria that ‘survives’ can become stronger and more resistant to these products and their ingredients.
The next time you clean, your products may not be as efficient as you need them.
The other problem related to these harsh chemicals is they may cause irritations and allergic reactions. Here you can include skin and eye irritations, coughing, breathing problems. This depends on the product and your sensitivity.
A natural disinfectant cleaner does not usually contain these ingredients, making them a safer and even healthier alternative.
Make sure you check the ingredients list to see if the product really does not contain any harsh chemicals.
Cleans your home properly
A natural disinfectant cleaner is a product made to clean your home and eliminate all bad bacteria.
It does not contain strong chemicals, but that does not mean it will not clean your home properly.
These cleaning products are designed to offer great results and to leave your home sparkling clean.
A cruelty-free furniture polish also fits in this category.
If you’re not sure what product to choose, look for product reviews and recommendations. They can help you make a good decision.
Chemicals used in conventional disinfectant cleaners
Disinfectant products contain different chemicals. Here are a few examples and their effects.
Triclosan
I’ve mentioned triclosan earlier. This is an antibacterial ingredient found in cleaning products, soap, body wash, and toothpaste.
The problem with it is the same as in the case of cleaning products. It can make bacteria become stronger and develop a great resistance to it and other similar ingredients.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a chemical also found in toilet paper, paper towels, nail polish, keratin treatments, and even cutting boards.
When exposed to small quantities of formaldehyde, you may not experience any problem.
People who work in production and manufacturing industries are exposed to larger quantities and they can experience skin irritations, nausea, coughing, and burning sensations in the throat, eyes, and nose area.
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Petroleum compounds
Petroleum compounds are also found in makeup products such as mascara, eyeliner, or in body butter.
They have been linked to dermatitis, itchiness, and rashes.
Other chemicals you may want to keep an eye open for are:
- fragrances
- parabens
- sulfates
- phenol
- butyl cellosolve
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How to make your own natural disinfectant cleaner
Buying a natural disinfectant cleaner is one way of choosing a different cleaning product.
You also have the option of making your own.
You can make a disinfectant spray by combining 1 part of water and 1 part of rubbing alcohol. You can use this item to disinfect your kitchen, bathroom, or different floors from your home.
Another recipe you can try requires:
- 1/2 cup of high-proof vodka
- 1/2 cup of white vinegar
- 3/4 cup of water
- a few drops of essential oils (e.g. lavender)
Mix the vodka with the essential oils. Give them a good shake, then add the vinegar and water.
Keep in mind that a plain disinfectant just kills bacteria and does not do the cleaning part. You need to complement it with a cleaning product.
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