{"id":25170,"date":"2023-06-14T17:19:04","date_gmt":"2023-06-14T17:19:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/?p=25170"},"modified":"2024-08-05T15:44:35","modified_gmt":"2024-08-05T15:44:35","slug":"7-common-toxins-found-in-laundry-detergent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ecos.com\/live-cleaner\/7-common-toxins-found-in-laundry-detergent\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Common Toxins Found in Laundry Detergent"},"content":{"rendered":"

Many are surprised to discover the number of toxic ingredients that can be found in some laundry detergents. Today\u2019s leading laundry detergents often contain carcinogens, toxins, and other harmful compounds. We want to help improve the safety of your home. Today, we\u2019re highlighting some of the most common toxins found in laundry detergents:<\/p>\n

Scented Laundry Detergent Can Emit Hazardous Chemicals<\/h2>\n

A University of Washington study found<\/a> many popular laundry detergents were packed with toxins. Scented laundry detergents were particularly problematic. Many of the chemicals used to create scents in laundry detergents are considered carcinogens.<\/p>\n

The report even found scented laundry products spread hazardous chemicals through dryer vents, which could spread toxins throughout your home and surrounding environment.<\/p>\n

Scented laundry detergents may smell nice. However, many companies combine hundreds of chemicals to create those scents. You may assume your laundry detergent smells like natural orange or lavender \u2013 but it could really be packed with chemicals linked to disease and illness.<\/p>\n

Surfactants Could Damage Mucus Membranes and Lungs<\/h2>\n

Many laundry detergents use surfactants like petroleum distillate<\/strong> or naphtha<\/strong>. These surfactants can boost the cleaning power of laundry detergent. However, they also can damage mucus membranes and lungs, which could lead to serious respiratory problems. These surfactants increase inflammation in the lungs, and have even been linked to an increased risk of asthma and cancer.<\/p>\n

Other laundry detergents use phenol<\/strong> as a surfactant. Phenol appears to be even more harmful than petroleum distillate or naphtha. Many people are allergic to phenol. In fact, phenol exposure can cause death in some individuals. When it contacts your skin, it can permeate your body to impact organs, your nervous system, and other critical components.<\/p>\n

1,4-dioxane Could Increase Cancer Risk<\/h3>\n

1,4-dioxane is a known human carcinogen and neurotoxin that is always present in trace amounts when ethoxylated surfactants are used. Ethoxylated surfactants are made by a chemical process where ethylene oxide reacts with other chemicals to create a surfactant. The problem is that this process can create 1,4 -dioxane as a byproduct.<\/p>\n

In studies on rats<\/a>, researchers have found 1,4-dioxane increases the risk of benign and malignant tumors throughout the body.<\/p>\n

1,4-dioxane is never listed on labels because it\u2019s not an intentionally added ingredient, but there are some easy tricks to avoid it. Ethoxylated surfactants usually follow a few naming conventions. If the ingredient ends in \u201c-eth\u201d, such as laureth-6 or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), ceteareth or steareth, it\u2019s ethoxylated.<\/p>\n

\n\"Mother<\/p>\n

Phthalates Are Linked to Endocrine Disruption and Hormone Imbalance<\/h3>\n

Phthalates make scents last longer. While many manufacturers now claim their products are phthalate-free, others continue to sneakily use phthalates in their products. Their label simply says \u201cfragrance,\u201d although they include phthalates under this label.<\/p>\n

Some studies have linked phthalates to endocrine disruption, which can impact your hormones, increase your risk of cancer, and affect fertility, among other serious health concerns.<\/p>\n

Bleach Is Hidden Under Alternative Names and Could Cause Skin Problems<\/h4>\n

It\u2019s no secret bleach is harmful to human health. However, it\u2019s often used to brighten clothes.<\/p>\n

Today, many manufacturers hide bleach behind terms like \u201csodium hypochlorite,\u201d \u201coptical brightener,\u201d or \u201cUV brightener.\u201d<\/p>\n

No matter what you call it, bleach can be harmful to human health. When bleach hits your skin, it can cause an allergic reaction. It can also irritate the eyes and lungs.<\/p>\n

Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs) Are Still Found in the United States, But Banned in the EU<\/h4>\n

Banned in the European Union (EU) and Canada, nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPEs) are commonly found in American laundry detergents \u2013 despite the risk of endocrine disruption, which could impact hormones, fertility, and overall health.<\/p>\n

Studies show<\/a> NPEs negatively impact physical function and fetal development. Children are particularly vulnerable, and NPEs could significantly impact growth and organ function.<\/p>\n

\"Mother<\/p>\n

Formaldehyde Can Irritate the Skin, Eyes, and Lungs<\/h4>\n

Formaldehyde is used as a low-cost preservative and antibacterial agent. It\u2019s found in laundry detergents and dishwashing liquid.<\/p>\n

Formaldehyde may be an effective antibacterial agent, but it can also irritate the eyes, lungs, and other parts of your respiratory system. Some studies<\/a> have linked formaldehyde to eczema, while others consider formaldehyde a carcinogen.<\/p>\n

Other Harmful Substances<\/h5>\n

The average laundry detergent is packed with harmful toxins and substances. Other harmful ingredients potentially found in your laundry detergent include:<\/p>\n