Toxic Chemicals & Health Impacts

• Many household cleaners contain hazardous chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, phthalates, PFAS, and formaldehyde.

• Exposure can occur through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion, leading to issues like respiratory problems, cancer, endocrine disruption, and more.

Environmental Impact

• These chemicals often enter the environment via drains and air, posing risks to both people and wildlife.

Safer Cleaning & Sanitizing Practices

• Prevention Steps:

  • Choose safer products (EPA Safer Choice certified)

  • Read and follow product labels (including contact time and intended use)

  • Train workers on chemical safety

  • Store and use chemicals properly (never mix bleach with ammonia)

• Understand the Difference:

  • Cleaning removes dirt and germs using water, soap, and scrubbing.

  • Sanitizing reduces germs on food-contact surfaces.

  • Disinfecting is for biological incidents like vomit or foodborne illness outbreaks.

Product Use Recommendations

• Clean before sanitizing.

• Use microfiber cloths for effective, low-toxicity cleaning.

• Only disinfect when necessary, and always wear proper PPE and ventilate spaces.

Safer Products for Washington Initiative

• The state is advancing efforts to reduce toxic chemicals in everyday products, including cleaners, through ongoing policy and advocacy (e.g., restrictions on phthalates in products like vinyl flooring and cosmetics).