When you run a business that offers cleaning services, you’re making places safer for your clients by ridding them of bacteria, viruses, and other germs. However, toxic chemicals found in most cleaning supplies and disinfectants can harm as well. Prevent further damage by learning about the potential risks of cleaning chemicals you could be using.

3 Common Cleaning Chemicals You Shouldn’t Use

1. Phthalates

Used in plastics and scented products, phthalates help scent molecules bind to chemicals as well as soften plastics. With increased exposure, they’ve been linked most notably to reproductive issues in men, according to the EPA. Found in scented cleaning agents, body products, air fresheners, and even medical tubing and IV bags, phthalates are hard to avoid. Using unscented products where possible can reduce your clients’ and employees’ exposure.

2. Perchloroethylene

Also known as ‘perc,’ perchloroethylene is a neurotoxin and potential carcinogenic present in dry-cleaning products and carpet cleaners. Exposure is most commonly through inhalation of fumes. Short-term exposure can lead to dizziness, respiratory and eye irritation, kidney dysfunction, and impaired coordination, while long-term effects include cognitive and movement impairments. The EPA has ordered a phase-out of perchloroethylene by 2020 for residential buildings due to health concerns. Look for non-toxic carpet cleaners for your team to use instead.

3. Sodium Hydroxide

Commonly known as lye, sodium hydroxide is present in oven cleaning supplies and drain unclogging liquids. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, inhaling lye fumes can cause nose, throat, and respiratory irritation. Severe inhalation causes swelling and muscle spasms in the throat, potentially limiting your ability to breathe, plus swelling and fluid buildup in your lungs. Direct skin contact leads to severe chemical burns and ingesting it can cause death. Use chemical-free cleaning options for stoves and drains instead, like snaking tools or baking soda.

If your business performs janitorial or cleaning services, make sure you keep your clientele and employees safe by choosing Lamers Enterprise in Honolulu, HI, as your provider for cleaning supplies. From disinfectants to janitorial supplies like toilet paper and waste baskets, they offer a broad inventory of everything your business needs. For cleaning solutions that may be hazardous, they offer several non-toxic alternatives, and they stock safety equipment, including face masks, gloves, and goggles. Browse their complete collection of cleaning supplies online or call them with questions at (808) 845-9365.