
- Wash your hands often, using regular soap and warm water: doctors recommend against using antibacterial soaps.
- Use non-toxic cleaning products. Baking soda is a good scouring powder for sinks and tubs, and vinegar mixed with water works well for windows, surfaces and floors.You don’t need to use bleach for most cleaning tasks.
- Don’t use air “fresheners.” Also, choose fragrance-free laundry detergents, and avoid using dryer sheets. The fragrances (or “parfum”) in these products can contain potentially harmful chemicals.
- Avoid dry cleaning, or find a cleaner that uses non-toxic methods. closed containers.
- And, of course, keep all cleaners and other household chemicals out of the reach of children.
Want to learn more? Check out these CPCHE resources and FAQs:
- Go Green when you Clean. Reducing toxic chemicals in your home... for your children's health. Attractive tip card with simple tips for families.
- Fragrances fact sheet
- Child Health and the Environment - A Primer (see p. 105 for toxic reduction tips related to cleaning and personal care products)
- Buying Products for the Child Care Centre fact sheet (includes advice on cleaning products)
- Your Child's Skin May Act More Like a Sponge Than a Shield flyer addressing fragrance and other potentially harmful substances in personal care products
- Playing it Safe: Carpets