Pregnancy friendly cleaning products
7 Pregnancy-Safe Cleaning Products to Use in Your Home
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Pregnancy doesn't stop household chores from being done. But, expecting mothers may be hesitant to reach for a bottle of bleach or detergent when cleaning around the house.
"Potentially toxic substances that get into your blood circulation by swallowing, inhalation, or absorption from the skin may cross this fine placental barrier to the fetus,” Ronald M. Caplan, M.D. told What to Expect — therefore, many expectant moms may be on the hunt for pregnancy-safe cleaning products that are non-toxic.
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Whether you're scrubbing the bathroom, washing dishes, or doing laundry, Green Matters has rounded up a list of our favorite green products that will leave both you (and your baby) feeling happy and healthy. Check out our list below.
Here are 7 pregnancy-safe cleaning products to use in your home:
While most cleaning products are generally safe to use while pregnant, some may contain harmful chemicals that could be hazardous to the health of you and your baby. Instead, here are our favorite alternative products that you can feel safe using while pregnant.
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1. DIY All-Purpose Cleaner
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Sometimes, a good-old DIY project is the best when it comes to using non-toxic and eco-friendly products. If you're looking for a simple cleaning solution, grab a 32-ounce glass spray bottle and mix 2 cups of distilled water, 2 cups of white distilled vinegar, and 30 drops of your favorite essential oils.
(Recipe courtesy of Guided Heart Doula).
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2. GreenShield Organic Multi-Surface Wipes in Fresh Mint
Fight germs and tough grease stains with GreenShield Organic Surface Wipes. These wipes are non-toxic, hypo-allergenic, and cruelty-free. Therefore, you can have peace of mind knowing that those hard-to-clean surfaces can be wiped up without using strong chemicals.
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3. Branch Basics Cleaners
Source: Branch Basics
This company was founded by three women who have made it their mission to help people replace the harsh chemicals inside of their homes with plant and mineral-based ingredients.
We recommend the Glass Cleaning Essentials Kit, which includes a bathroom, all-purpose, and "streak-free" glass cleaner that is "gentle enough to use on skin yet strong enough to tackle dirt and grime."
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4. Koala Eco Natural Floor Cleaner
Source: Koala Eco
Are you searching for a pregnancy-safe product to clean your hardwood floors? Koala Eco cleaner is natural and non-toxic and made without dyes, synthetic perfumes, chlorine, bleach, sodium laurel sulfates, and phosphates.
Plus, it's scented with fresh aromas of mandarin and peppermint — yum.
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5.
Dropps Laundry DetergentSource: Dropps
Free from harmful chemicals, Dropps Laundry detergent helps fight tough stains and odors using natural enzymes and plant-based ingredients. Dropps also aims to reduce single-use plastic and offset their environmental impact through the purchase of carbon offsets with each consumer purchase.
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6. Attitude All-Purpose Cleaner
Source: Attitude
Attitude's All-Purpose Cleaner is made using plant and mineral-based ingredients like saponin, which is a natural cleaning agent. This multi-purpose sustainable and biodegradable product will help remove scum, mold, and dust.
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7. Biom All-Purpose Cleaning Wipes
Source: Biom
Biom's cleaning wipes work great on every surface. This 100 percent plant-based and biodegradable product is safe to use on skin and on surfaces.
And in addition to providing refillable dispensers, Biom has committed to stopping 45.5 tons of plastic from entering the ocean in a partnership with Plastic Bank.
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Pregnancy-Safe Cleaning Products for the Expectant Mom
Looking for baby-safe cleaning products okay to use when you’re pregnant? Find the best products for your family, without all the toxins with these must-have cleaning tips.
This post may contain affiliate links.
I’ve been pregnant a grand total of three times. And each time cleaning the house was a task I absolutely dreaded.
Let’s get real. Putting away laundry, cleaning toilets and doing dishes are tasks most people dislike in general. But when you’re expecting a baby, finding cleaning products that are safe for your unborn child is even more of a challenge.
While most household cleaning products (like window cleaners and all-purpose cleaners are generally safe), many do contain hazardous chemicals intended to fight grime and bacteria. These chemicals can be harmful to an expectant mama and baby and should be avoided during this fragile period of development…especially during the first-trimester.
After lots of research and recommendations from friends and family, I found some safer, non-toxic cleaning alternatives to use during pregnancy.
Related: Pregnancy-Safe Beauty Products
How pregnancy intuition protects mom-to-be.
Even in full nesting mode, during each of my three pregnancies, I specifically remember that feeling in my gut when handling cleaning sprays — as if my body were telling me what I should stay away from. Indeed the pregnant intuition has an amazing way of protecting baby!
That’s because pregnancy causes many physiological changes in the body — one of these is heightening the senses.
It’s no surprise we become hypersensitive to smells — everything from mild perfumes and odors can become amplified so that we can more easily detect when foods are spoiled and unfit to eat or when everyday cleaning products emit toxins. Thank God!!
Why many cleaning products are bad for a pregnant mom.
These toxic fumes are can cause us to become even more nauseous than we already are, and can even pose a serious threat to the unborn baby — as some researchers found a connection between household cleaners and childhood respiratory problems and wheezing.
That’s why it’s super important to read EVERY label carefully before using. But don’t rely on labels alone, as they can be quite deceiving. You can even visit the EWG to see how your favorite cleaning product scores when it comes to healthy cleaning.
Top cleaners to avoid while pregnant
Here are some cleaning products to limit or steer clear of all together while expecting:
Mold Cleaners: Whether it’s cleaning bathroom tiles or corners in your basement covered in mold, this is a job you do not want to be doing when you’re pregnant.
Black mold especially is very toxic and can be linked to birth defects. Avoid it!
Oven cleaners: Just don’t do it. Oven cleaners contain some of the harshest chemicals overall, so it’s best to not even purchase. To clean your oven, go all-natural with a safe dish detergent and water.
Clorox: Bleach can be overpowering for many people let alone the pregnant body susceptible fainting or dizzy spells. Whenever possible get some help with this job.
When you really need to clean the toilets or tiles, get your spouse to help or check out the other cleaning solutions below.
GRAB YOUR PREGNANCY SAFETY PACKET >>
Pregnancy & Baby-Safe Cleaning Options
Choose non-toxic or organic brands
Your first step should be to shop for non-toxic cleaning products. Yes, the prices tend to be a little higher, but they are often worth it. At least during the 9 months of pregnancy and early months with a little one in the house.
Below are some great organic brands to consider.
- Seventh Generation Toilet Cleaner
- Aussan Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
- Green Shield Organic Biodegradable
- Mrs. Meyers All-Purpose Cleaner
- Method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray
- Greenworks Compastable Cleaning Wipes
- Babyganics Dish Liquid
Read labels carefully
If organic brands are just not in the budget, simply try to avoid the products with those dangerous chemicals and overpowering, toxic fumes. And know what to look for when you’re reading the labels. A good rule of thumb is to avoid products that say they’re toxic or include chemicals like glycol ethers or phenols as they may be linked to an increased risk of miscarriage or birth defects
Use soap and water
Another idea to ensure your cleaning products are safe for mom and baby is to stick to simple household cleansers like soap and water. Oftentimes, dish soaps like Dawn + water make a perfectly fine combo to clean floors, tables, countertops and fridges.
If you are looking for something a little more powerful, yet still equally safe, take a stab at DIY cleaners. Vinegar can be a wonderful cleaning agent. For some cleaning with vinegar inspiration check out this post of over 20 ideas!
More safe cleaning ideasOther tips for non-toxic cleaning during your pregnancy include, keeping whatever room you’re working in well ventilated with fans, opening a window for fresh air to circulate, stocking up on disposable gloves.
If you decide you can afford a cleaning service, even better — just make sure the house is well-ventilated so that when you do step in you aren’t intoxicated with cleaners.
Cleaning while pregnant is not much fun at all. Your growing belly can make it harder to move quicker, handle heavy loads alone and all those cleaning chemicals can make you super nauseous.
So next time you feel guilty about playing that pregnancy card, don’t sweat it.
There is no better excuse than baby for reminding mama to take it easy and do only the minimal.
Download the Pregnancy Safety Packet below to track ALL the things you should avoid for a healthy pregnancy >>
More pregnancy posts:
8 Things About Household Cleaning During Pregnancy.com
House Cleaning During Pregnancy: Pros and Cons
It is not possible to give up household chores completely for nine months. From the point of view of doctors, cleaning during pregnancy plays a positive role. Moderate physical activity benefits the mother and fetus: improves blood circulation, helps keep muscles in good shape, reduce swelling and not gain extra pounds.
Home hygiene helps prevent bacterial and viral diseases. Carrying heavy buckets or climbing on window sills to clean windows is still not worth it. It is better to delegate these tasks to other family members or call a professional cleaner.
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A woman's body goes through many changes during pregnancy. Each trimester has its own characteristics. They should be taken into account when distributing loads during the cleaning process.
There are also a number of activities that are strictly prohibited for pregnant women:
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Climbing a ladder, stool, window sill and other “high-altitude” objects;
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Lift weights over 5 kg, especially in the early stages;
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Use prohibited household chemicals1;
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Clean up the litter box and garden because of the risk of toxoplasmosis;
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Make sudden movements: tilts, turns, squats;
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Exposing the body to physical stress for a long time, denying yourself rest.
Is it safe to use household chemicals
Cleaning products should be chosen carefully during pregnancy. It is better to give preference to natural cleaners: citric acid, soda, vinegar.
However, household chemicals and pregnancy are also quite compatible things. The enhanced composition of store detergents allows you to get rid of germs, bacteria and mold. All household chemicals on the Russian market are subject to examination in terms of sanitary-chemical and toxicological indicators. If a drug has the potential to cause harm to a pregnant woman or unborn child, a warning label is displayed on the label. nine0005
During the first trimester, the baby's vital systems and organs are formed. To protect the fetus from the action of various toxins, the female body produces a special hormone - gonadotropin. Thanks to him, cleaning in early pregnancy can be accompanied by hypersensitivity to odors and toxicosis. To avoid "side" effects, gynecologists recommend using fragrance-free detergents.
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To combat pathogenic biofilm in the bathroom and toilet, powerful antibacterial agents like Domestos are indispensable. Sodium hypochlorite in its composition effectively kills germs and mold, keeping plumbing clean.
All work must be carried out with rubber gloves and a respirator, and the premises themselves must be well ventilated; nine0005 -
Even with the right organization of the entrance area, dirt and microbes brought on shoes from the street spread throughout the apartment. Glorix disinfectant will get rid of potentially dangerous microorganisms, dust and other contaminants. Washing floors should also be done with protective gloves;
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The kitchen seems to be one of the cleanest places in the house. However, high temperature, humidity, microdrops of fat and bacteria brought on the products create all the conditions for the growth of harmful microorganisms. Work surfaces should be cleaned regularly with Cif cleaning gels or sprays, and sponges and kitchen towels should be changed every couple of weeks; nine0005
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Lime scale, grease stains and other dirt can be removed with folk remedies. Apply a slurry of soda powder to the surface and after a while wash it off with a solution of vinegar;
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Test on an inconspicuous area before applying detergent;
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Carefully read the instructions, precautions and contraindications on the cleaning agent bottle.
Follow the indicated dosage; nine0005 -
Never mix household chemicals. This can cause a reaction with the release of volatile chlorine - the strongest of household poisons;
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If your general condition worsens after cleaning, dizziness or nausea occurs during pregnancy, immediately inform your family and, if possible, consult a doctor.
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Replace your regular mop with a modern model with a longer handle and wringer;
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Water bucket on wheels makes cleaning a lot easier; nine0005
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Avoid bending over and putting pressure on your stomach. If you need to lean forward, bend your knees and gently stretch in the desired direction;
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Vacuuming should be carried out with slow, smooth movements, after opening the windows for ventilation;
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Many pregnant women find it easier to clean the floor by hand, gently kneeling or squatting;
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If you have frequent low back pain, ask your doctor for a special abdominal support bandage.
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It is forbidden to climb ladders, chairs and other high objects to avoid the risk of falling;
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It is strictly forbidden to lean out of the windows - entrust the washing of external surfaces to household members;
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Do not raise your hands above your head - for cleaning remote areas, you can purchase a special scraper or mini window mop with a long handle;
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Instead of aerosol detergents, it is better to use a citric acid solution. nine0005
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It is better to replace ordinary washing powder with a sulfate-free detergent without fragrances - this will reduce the risk of allergic reactions;
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Wet laundry becomes heavier - it is better to entrust it to your spouse;
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Remove clothes from the washer in small batches and leave to dry at height.
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Is it possible to wash floors during pregnancy
Washing floors and vacuuming during pregnancy is definitely possible.
However, there is no universal instruction for this type of cleaning - doctors recommend proceeding from well-being and working in the most comfortable position for no more than half an hour, after which take a 15-minute break.
The successful course of pregnancy and childbirth is the merit of progesterone. The same hormone weakens the natural immune barrier, makes ligaments and joints more mobile. Along with the growth of the abdomen, the center of gravity shifts - this creates an additional load on the back. nine0005
Is it possible to wash windows during pregnancy
Clean windows not only please the eye, but also provide the necessary insolation. Windows should be washed as they get dirty. On the first floors, dust settles on the glass faster. The same applies to houses adjacent to highways and industrial zones.
How to wash and iron during pregnancy
Doctors advise against hand washing during pregnancy. It is detrimental to the back, besides it takes a lot of strength.
If there is no choice, you should take the most comfortable position. Sit on a chair with a backrest, placing the basin with linen in front of you on a slight elevation. nine0005
Most modern materials do not need to be ironed. It is enough to dry things properly, and they can be worn. It is more convenient to align the folds and provide additional disinfection with a steam iron. For supporters of classic irons and ironing boards, doctors recommend doing all the work in a sitting position - this will help reduce the load on the legs and back, avoid swelling and varicose veins, and at the same time be less tired.
Cooking and washing dishes, as well as cleaning during pregnancy, should be done in a simplified manner. Get a comfortable chair to relieve stress on your back. Take frequent breaks and don't overwork yourself. Any household chores can wait - the main thing is your well-being and the health of the baby. nine0005
Use of Domestos in Pregnancy: Tips
How Harmful Domestos Is? If the product has the potential to harm a pregnant woman and an unborn baby, a warning must be placed on the label (1).
Domestos is a chlorine-based cleaner, so it is important to follow the directions carefully when using it. All-purpose cleaners of the line contain
Before using Domestos products, please read these simple recommendations:
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Read the instructions on the back of the bottle carefully. Use in a concentrated form only on the surfaces intended for this purpose, and when diluted, follow the proportions indicated on the label.
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Never mix Domestos with other household chemicals. This can lead to a sudden release of chlorine gas - it is extremely dangerous.
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Store the detergent in its original packaging in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children and pets.
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Wear protective gloves, goggles and a mask.
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Be sure to ventilate the room during and after cleaning.
Good ventilation is particularly important - prolonged exposure to household chemical vapors can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation.
If a pregnant woman has inhaled Domestos, consult a doctor to rule out the risk of an allergic reaction. With the right precautions, you can keep your home perfectly clean without fear of harm to your health. nine0005
Pregnancy and Domestos: pros and cons
In the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, all systems and organs of the baby are laid. At this time, the mother's body with might and main produces chorionic gonadotropin - a hormone designed to protect the child from all possible toxins.
It is he who is the main culprit of toxicosis and hypersensitivity to odors. Susceptibility to many substances persists throughout the entire period of pregnancy. Therefore, doctors advise limiting the use of household chemicals, cosmetics and perfumes. At the same time, the reaction of the body for each woman is individual: if you are used to using Domestos for cleaning and do not experience discomfort when in contact with detergents, there is no reason to give up habits. nine0005
How to stay safe when cleaning
If you have any doubts about whether pregnant women can clean the bath with detergents, ask your doctor.
