Free your home of these common Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the hormonal system in humans and animals, leading to a range of health problems. Your body has a bunch of special chemicals called hormones that help your body grow and work properly. These hormones act like messengers, telling your body what to do and when to do it.

Sometimes, when we are exposed to certain chemicals in our environment, they can get into our bodies and act like fake hormones. These fake hormones are called endocrine disruptors.

When endocrine disruptors get into our bodies, they can act like hormones and give the wrong messages to our bodies. This can cause problems with how our bodies grow and work. For example, endocrine disruptors can cause animals to grow in strange ways, like having too many legs or missing body parts.

In humans, endocrine disruptors can cause problems like early puberty, infertility, and even cancer. That’s why it’s important to try and avoid these chemicals when we can, by choosing products that are labeled as “fragrance-free,” “hypoallergenic,” or “environmentally-friendly.”

These chemicals are commonly found in many household products, such as cleaning agents, personal care products, and even some types of plastics. To protect yourself and your family from these harmful chemicals, they must be removed from your home.

What are the biggest ingredients in cleaning products that are endocrine disruptors?

There are several ingredients commonly found in cleaning products that are known or suspected to be endocrine disruptors. Here are some of the most commonly found ones:

1. Phthalates: These are chemicals that are often used as a fragrance carrier in cleaning products. They can interfere with the body’s hormonal system, potentially leading to developmental and reproductive problems. Here is a great handout specifically on phthalates.
2. Triclosan: This is an antimicrobial agent found in some cleaning products, such as hand soap and dish detergent. Triclosan has been linked to hormone disruption, and some studies suggest it may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
3. Bisphenol A (BPA): This is a chemical used in some plastics and resins, including some types of food storage containers and water bottles. BPA can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and other health problems.
4. Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs): These are surfactants (a substance which tends to reduce the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved), commonly used in cleaning products to help remove dirt and grease. APEs can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to hormonal disruptions.
5. Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs): These are chemicals used in some non-stick and stain-resistant products, such as cookware and carpet cleaners. PFCs have been linked to a range of health problems, including hormonal disruptions.

It’s important to note that not all cleaning products contain these chemicals, and there are many safer alternatives available. Always read labels carefully and choose products that are labeled as “endocrine disruptor-free” or “hormone-free” whenever possible.

How to ensure your home is free of harmful chemicals:

1. Read Labels and Avoid Products with Endocrine Disruptors

The first step in removing endocrine disruptors from your home is to become an informed consumer. Start by reading labels on all products you purchase, including cleaning agents, personal care products, and even food packaging. Look for products that are labeled as “endocrine disruptor-free” or “hormone-free.” If you’re not sure which products to choose, you can also do some research online or consult with a health professional.

2. Replace Plastic Containers and Utensils

Many types of plastic, including polycarbonate and PVC, contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. These chemicals can leach into food and drinks stored in plastic containers, leading to potential health problems. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals, replace plastic containers and utensils with glass, stainless steel, or other safer materials.

3. Use Natural Cleaning Products

Many household cleaning products contain chemicals that can disrupt the hormonal system. To avoid these harmful chemicals, switch to natural cleaning products. Look for products made from natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. You can also make your own cleaning products using these ingredients. See below for some examples!

4. Choose Personal Care Products Carefully

Many personal care products, including shampoos, lotions, and makeup, contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as parabens and phthalates. To avoid these harmful chemicals, choose personal care products made from natural ingredients or look for products labeled as “paraben-free” or “phthalate-free.” You can also use fewer personal care products to reduce your overall exposure.

5. Filter Your Water

Some drinking water sources contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as atrazine and perchlorate. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals, install a water filtration system in your home. Look for a system that is designed to remove endocrine disruptors specifically, such as a reverse osmosis system.

6. Avoid Pesticides and Herbicides

Many pesticides and herbicides contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can harm both humans and animals. To avoid exposure to these chemicals, avoid using pesticides and herbicides in and around your home. Instead, use natural alternatives such as companion planting, hand weeding, and natural insect repellents.

Removing endocrine disruptors from your home is an important step towards protecting your health and the health of your family. By following these tips, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and create a safer, healthier home environment. Remember to always read labels, choose products carefully, and use natural alternatives whenever possible.

Here are several brands that offer healthy and eco-friendly cleaning products:

• Seventh Generation: Seventh Generation offers a wide range of laundry products that are free of artificial fragrances, dyes, and other harmful chemicals. Their products are also cruelty-free and come in environmentally-friendly packaging.
• Ecover: Ecover offers laundry products that are plant-based, biodegradable, and free from artificial fragrances and optical brighteners. Their products are also cruelty-free and packaged in recyclable materials.
• Mrs. Meyer’s: Mrs. Meyer’s offers laundry products that are made with plant-derived ingredients and free from artificial fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. Their products are also cruelty-free and come in recyclable packaging.
• Method: Method offers laundry products that are biodegradable, cruelty-free, and free from artificial fragrances, dyes, and optical brighteners. Their products are also packaged in recyclable materials.
• Biokleen: Biokleen offers laundry products that are made with plant-based ingredients and free from artificial fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. Their products are also cruelty-free and come in recyclable packaging.

You can also use vinegar and baking soda to replace many cleaning products. 

Baking soda (a natural cleaner and deodorizer) and vinegar (a natural disinfectant) are two common household items that can be used for a variety of cleaning purposes. Here’s how you can use them to make your own cleaning products:

• All-purpose cleaner: Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1-2 tablespoons of liquid dish soap and enough water to create a paste. Use the paste to clean surfaces like countertops, sinks, and stovetops.
• All-purpose cleaner: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to clean surfaces like countertops, windows, and mirrors.
• Dishwasher cleaner: Add a cup of vinegar to your dishwasher and run a cycle to help remove buildup and odors.
• Toilet cleaner: Pour a cup of vinegar into your toilet bowl and let it sit for several hours (or overnight), then scrub with a toilet brush.
• You can even mop your floors with vinegar.  Mix a solution of ½ cup of distilled white vinegar per gallon of warm water.

You might be thinking “ Yuck the smell” but the sour vinegar smell dissipates in minutes and you are left with a chemical free clean home! Happy cleaning!