Hazard Warning on Home Cleaners

Hazard Warning on Home Cleaners
Study says many use chemicals linked to fertility problems
by Jane Kay

Dozens of common household cleaning products contain hidden toxic chemicals linked to fertility disorders in lab animals, according to data gathered by a women’s research group.A type of glycol ether is frequently found in popular cleaning products such as Windex Aerosol, Formula 409, Lemon Fresh Pine-Sol and Simple Green All Purpose Cleaner, says the report released today by Women’s Voices for the Earth, a Montana-based nonprofit working to eliminate or reduce toxic chemicals in the home.

The chemical, called ethylene glycol butyl ether or EGBE, is on California’s list of toxic air contaminants. Some animal studies indicate that it produces reproductive problems, such as testicular damage, reduced fertility, death of embryos and birth defects. People exposed to high levels of EGBE for several hours have reported nose and eye irritation, headaches, vomiting and a metallic taste in their mouths, studies show.

It’s difficult for consumers to know whether their favorite cleaner contains the chemical because manufacturers aren’t required to list it on the label. Neither the state nor the federal government regulates indoor air pollution, for instance how the cleaners might degrade air inside a home.

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http://www.commondreams.org/archive/2007/07/24/2740/

and she was using those dryer sheets with her laundry and they made my eyes water. The smell is so strong, I can't believe they're good for you. Normally, things don,t bother me, but those did.

are dangerous as well

Most of the crap on the market smells nasty as well.

While employeed there, I became a BIG fan of MSDS sheets for chemical
compounds. Due to the fact that I was injured on the job, suffering a
severe inhalation exposure, I have developed severe Multiple Chemical
Sensitivity. Therefore, ANY compound I am not familiar with, I do the
MSDS search on it....some will surprise you with the listed potential
side effects to exposure.
Many cleaners have on the label to wear gloves and avoid inhaling the
fumes - for a good reason. If you read this on a cleaning product label -
be sure and search the MSDS and look at the compounds listed.

http://www.msdssearch.com/

Thank you for the link!

:toast:

This chemical needs to be banned...at the very least
widely exposed for what it is.

I thought it was supposed to be eco friendly?