The Eco-Cost of Conventional Cleaning Products
Most people do not think twice about washing their floors or scrubbing their countertops. But the harsh chemicals in many cleaning products come with an invisible price tag, polluting our water, air, soil, and climate long after we rinse them away.
From runoff that impacts marine life to airborne substances that affect air quality, traditional cleaners contribute to environmental concerns. Here is what you need to know about their impact, and why it is time to consider eco-friendly alternatives.
Water Pollution: The Silent Killer of Aquatic Life
Every time we rinse cleaning products down the drain, we may be sending harsh chemicals into our water supply. Many ingredients in conventional cleaners don’t break down easily, causing long-term pollution.
Phosphates and Nitrogen Compounds, found in detergents, contribute to algal blooms that create areas with low oxygen in oceans and lakes, affecting marine life (EPA, 2022).
Chlorine Bleach and Ammonia, these highly reactive chemicals can affect fish and disrupt aquatic ecosystems at even low concentrations (American Chemical Society, 2020).
Surfactants and Preservatives. Ingredients like nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) mimic hormones, impacting reproduction in fish and bioaccumulating in marine food chains.
Impact: Declining Water Quality and Marine Biodiversity
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Many U.S. rivers and lakes are too polluted for fishing and swimming, and chemical runoff is one of the contributors.
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Toxic contamination affects drinking water, increasing health risks for humans and animals (World Health Organization, 2022).
Air Pollution: The Unseen Pollutants in Your Home and Office
Many cleaning sprays and disinfectants release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution.
Ammonia and Chlorine Gas, strong-smelling fumes from household cleaners can cause irritation and affect breathing (American Lung Association, 2021).
Fragrances and Air Fresheners, many contain phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption and reproductive concerns (Endocrine Society, 2019).
Aerosols and Propellants, sprays release tiny airborne substances that can linger for hours, affecting indoor air quality and contributing to smog outdoors (EPA, 2022).
Impact: Poor Air Quality and Long-Term Health Effects
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Research has associated weekly use of household cleaning sprays with a 30-50% higher risk of new-onset adult asthma (Zock et al., 2007, American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine).
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VOCs from cleaning products are as harmful to air pollution as car emissions, according to a study from the University of California (2018).
Soil Contamination: Chemical Residues That Last for Decades
When cleaners are improperly disposed of, or when wastewater is not treated properly, their ingredients accumulate in soil, affecting plant life and ecosystems.
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats) and other cleaning agents. These chemicals can affect beneficial soil organisms, disrupting natural decomposition and plant growth.
Heavy Metals and Synthetic Preservatives, found in industrial cleaners, these substances persist in the environment, impacting agricultural land (U.S. Geological Survey, 2021).
Impact: Ecosystem Damage and Reduced Soil Fertility
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Contaminated soil leads to toxic food sources for wildlife and humans.
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Microorganisms essential for breaking down organic matter die off, weakening soil’s ability to support plant life.
Climate Change: How Cleaning Products Contribute to Global Warming
Petroleum-Based Ingredients, many conventional cleaners are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions during production (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2021).
Plastic Waste, most cleaning products are packaged in non-recyclable plastic bottles, adding to landfill and ocean pollution (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2022).
Aerosol Sprays & Propellants, these contain chemicals that affect the ozone layer and contribute to global warming (EPA, 2022).
Impact: Environmental Harm Beyond the Cleaning Process
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The cleaning industry produces thousands of tons of CO₂ annually.
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Much of the plastic packaging from household cleaning products is never recycled, worsening plastic waste pollution.
Solution: Switch to Bleach-Free Cleaning Alternatives
It’s clear: harsh chemical cleaners are harming the planet. But the good news is that there are better options.
CG Chemicals is veteran-owned and makes its cleaners in Elkhart, Indiana.
Our products are:
- Made with no bleach or ammonia.
- Made with US-sourced ingredients.
- Safer than most solvent cleaners.
- Backed by SDS sheets, available on request.
It’s time to clean responsibly. It's time to clean smarter.
Shop now or contact us to learn more about our cleaning products!
Sources: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (2022). Effects of Cleaning Chemicals on Water & Air Quality. American Lung Association (2021). Indoor Air Quality and Cleaning Products. National Institutes of Health (2021). Toxicology of Household Cleaners. Endocrine Society (2019). Phthalates and Hormone Disruption. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2021). Carbon Emissions from Consumer Goods. U.S. Geological Survey (2021). Contaminants in U.S. Water and Soil. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) (2022). Plastic Waste in the Environment. Svanes et al. (2018). American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
Two formulas. Serious range.
Use Surgical Strike for stains and odor, then New-Clear Blast to clean, shield and preserve hard surfaces.
