Cleaning products: 3 ingredients to avoid, and their sustainable alternatives

Cleaning products have been a fundamental part of our lives for hundreds of years; both for domestic and commercial use. Cleaning plays a vital role in keeping people and places healthy and hygienic, but many traditional cleaning products actually contain toxic chemicals that are bad for both the user’s health and the health of the planet.

As a result, demand for environmentally friendly cleaning products has risen over recent years. In this blog, we will explore some of the most commonly used toxic commercial cleaning ingredients and provide information on more eco-friendly alternatives that are just as effective, but safer for users and the environment. 

Toxic product 1: Chlorine

Chlorine is a powerful oxidiser sometimes found in cleaning items. Although chlorine is effective in disinfecting surfaces and killing germs, products containing this chemical are often toxic and can cause damage to the health of the user, and the environment if not used or disposed of properly.

When inhaled, chlorine fumes can damage the respiratory system, which for anyone who frequently uses products containing this toxin, can pose serious long-term health risks.

In addition to health concerns, there are also environmental issues to consider. Chlorine can affect indoor air quality, as well as mix with outdoor air to add to the increase in smog. Regular disposal of chlorine-based products down the drain can also seep into water sources, decreasing water quality and potentially affecting the wildlife that lives in nearby bodies of water.

Sustainable alternative to Chlorine bleach: Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound that is composed of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms (H2O2). Similar to chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide is a powerful oxidizer and can be used to disinfect surfaces. In higher concentrations, this chemical compound can be corrosive but if diluted and used properly is much less harmful to users than chlorine-based products.

Compared to chlorine, hydrogen peroxide is a much more sustainable cleaning solution to use and dispose of. As it is a by-product of various metabolic processes, and in small amounts, it can actually be found in rainwater and snow – it is a much more renewable solution compared to chlorine which is usually produced using non-renewable sources. Additionally, when used, hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, leaving no harmful residue or gasses which is better for the health of the users, and the environment.

Toxic product 2: 2-Butoxyethanol

2-Butoxyethanol (2-BE) is a solvent and surfactant used in a variety of industrial and consumer cleaning products. It is a clear, colourless liquid, and is sometimes used in cleaning products.

When it comes to the environment, 2-Butoxyethanol is just as toxic. When released into the environment, 2-BE can be toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, causing harm to their reproductive and nervous systems. Additionally, 2-BE can take a long time to break down, potentially leading to long-term environmental damage.

Sustainable alternatives to 2-Butoxyethanol

There are several sustainable alternatives to 2-Butoxyethanol that can be used in industrial and consumer products. Some examples include:

• Plant-based solvents: Solvents made from plant-based materials, such as citrus or corn, are renewable and biodegradable, making them a more sustainable option. For example, our Triple 8 multi-purpose cleaner is made from biodegradable chemicals and packaged in recyclable bottles to further increase the sustainability of your clean.

• Water: Water-based cleaning products and paint are becoming increasingly popular as sustainable alternatives to products containing 2-BE.

• Enzymes: Enzymes are biomolecules that catalyse chemical reactions and are used as cleaning agents and stain removers. They are biodegradable and non-toxic, making them a sustainable alternative to 2-BE.

Toxic product 3: Ammonia

Ammonia is a common ingredient in many cleaning products, including window cleaners. Cleaning products that are ammonia-based should be used with caution, as they can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities or if mixed with certain other chemicals, such as chlorine bleach.

Ammonia can be harmful to human health if it is inhaled in large quantities. High concentrations of ammonia in the air can cause respiratory irritation, including coughing, shortness of breath, and sore throat. It can also cause eye irritation and burns. Prolonged exposure to high levels of ammonia can lead to more serious health problems, such as lung damage or chemical pneumonia.

Ammonia is also harmful to the environment. It is a major contributor to acid rain and can harm aquatic life when it enters waterways. Ammonia can also contribute to the formation of particulate matter in the air, which can have negative effects on air quality and human health.
 

Sustainable alternatives to Ammonia

Similar to Chlorine bleach, ammonia can be substituted for hydrogen peroxide for a more sustainable cleaning solution. But another eco-friendly yet just as effective alternative is enzyme cleaners. 

Enzyme cleaners use good bacteria and natural enzymes to break down and essentially ‘eat’ soils and stains. (Look for protease, amylase, lipase, mannanase, pectinase, and/or cellulase on the label.) Enzyme cleaners are especially popular for neutralizing pet odours (urine), but they can also be used to effectively disinfect countertops, bathrooms, carpet stains, and more. That said, please note that commercial enzyme cleaners often contain some amount of chemicals and synthetic fragrances, so you do need to check the label.

Sustainable cleaning products from Castle

At Castle, we are passionate about shaping a better future for the generations to come. That is why we place sustainability at the core of our business.

By continually challenging ourselves and our partners, we can optimise our sustainability through new initiatives and innovations to become more efficient, less wasteful, and positively impact the environment. 

Our range of commercial and household cleaning solutions are all manufactured with the environment in mind. By using our products, you can achieve a deeper clean without causing harming your health or the planet. 

To find out more about how we can help you achieve your environmental goals, contact a member of the team at Castle.