The Cleaning Products You’re Using are Dangerous — and What to Use Instead

Cleaning Tips - by [email protected] - July 22, 2025

toxic cleaning products with Columbus Cleaning Service logo

A Safer Way to Clean from Columbus Ohio Cleaning Experts

If you’re like most families in Columbus, you’ve probably used name-brand cleaners like Clorox and Lysol to keep your home fresh. But here’s the truth many people don’t realize: those products may be doing more harm than good—especially to your kids, pets, and indoor air.

As a trusted provider of cleaning services Columbus Ohio families count on, we’re committed to keeping your home safe. That means using green, non-toxic cleaning solutions that get the job done without the hidden dangers.

🧴 What’s Really in Those Bottles?

Many commercial cleaners contain harsh ingredients linked to respiratory problems, hormone disruption, skin irritation, and even long-term health risks.

Let’s break down just a few offenders:

Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner + Bleach

Key ingredient: Sodium hypochlorite (bleach)

Why it’s a problem:

Bleach is a powerful disinfectant—but also a lung and skin irritant, especially dangerous when mixed (even accidentally) with ammonia or acids. It’s especially harmful to children, who are closer to treated surfaces and more sensitive to fumes.

🔗 EPA Guide on Bleach Hazards

❌ Lysol All-Purpose Cleaner

Key ingredient: Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (a “quat”)

Why it’s a problem:

This quaternary ammonium compound is classified as an asthmagen by the Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics. Studies have linked long-term exposure to hormone disruption and decreased fertility.

🔗 NIH Study on Quats and Respiratory Effects

🚫 Other Harmful Ingredients Found in Many “Everyday” Cleaners:

  • 2-Butoxyethanol: Linked to liver and kidney damage
  • Ammonia: Causes respiratory irritation and eye damage
  • Fragrance (phthalates): Often includes endocrine disruptors
  • Chlorine: Corrosive and dangerous to inhale

🔗 Environmental Working Group’s Cleaner Database – Find out what’s actually in those cleaning products you’re currently using

Infographic titled ‘Clean Doesn’t Have to Mean Toxic’ showing a visual comparison of harmful ingredients like bleach, ammonia, and quats versus safe alternatives like vinegar, lemon, and essential oil, designed to promote non-toxic cleaning solutions for families and pet owners.

👶 Why It Matters for Families With Children and Pets

Kids and pets are more vulnerable than adults to chemical exposure. They crawl, lick, sniff, and touch everything—making it easy to ingest or absorb harmful residues left behind from common cleaners.

That’s why Jenna and Isaac, the owners of Columbus Cleaning Service, use only green, non-toxic cleaning products in their own home with their two young boys and newborn daughter. If it’s not safe for their family, they won’t use it in yours.

🌿 Safe Alternatives to Clorox and Lysol

Instead of bleach-based sprays or quats, you can clean 90% of your home with a simple, homemade cleaner that’s safe and effective.

✅ DIY All-Purpose Green Cleaner

Safe for kids, pets, and most household surfaces.

Homemade green cleaning spray made with vinegar, dish soap, and essential oils next to eco-friendly cleaning tools for columbus ohio cleaning services

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon mild dish soap
  • 10–15 drops essential oils (lemon, lavender, or tea tree)
  • 2 cups warm water

Mix in a spray bottle and use on countertops, sinks, bathroom tile, and more.

📥 Download the recipe card here (PNG)

🧽 Or Let Us Clean It For You — The Safe Way

Switching to green cleaning can feel overwhelming, especially for busy families. It’s hard to find dependable cleaning services in Columbus, Ohio. That’s where Columbus Cleaning Service comes in.

We offer:

✅ Pet- and child-safe green cleaning products

✅ Biweekly, weekly, or deep cleaning options

✅ A 100% satisfaction guarantee

✅ Online booking in minutes

📞 Call us at 614-412-2960

🌐 Book your eco-friendly clean now

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I request only green cleaning products from your team?

A: Absolutely. When you’re booking your cleaning services Columbus Ohio, just mention it in the Notes section when completing your booking online.

Q: Are your cleaners trained to handle homes with kids or pets?

A: Yes! Many of our clients have children or animals. We understand your concerns and only use safe, non-toxic methods when requested.

Q: Do natural cleaners actually disinfect?

A: Yes. Vinegar and essential oils have antimicrobial properties that can handle everyday messes. For high-risk areas, we offer non-toxic disinfectant options.