🌿 “Why I Ditched Toxic Cleaners—And What You Can Use Instead”

Written By Kayla Duhamel

By Kayla, Owner of Pure Quality Cleaning Services, St. Petersburg, FL

 

Hi friends! 😊

I’m Kayla, a cleaning business owner here in sunny Tampa Bay, and today I want to share something really close to my heart—why I stopped using toxic cleaning products and what I’ve found works so much better (for your home and your health).

When I first started cleaning many years ago, I was using whatever was “strongest” on the shelves—bleach sprays, ammonia glass cleaners, and mystery chemical cocktails that promised miracles. But over time, I noticed something: headaches after long jobs, itchy skin, a scratchy throat after spraying bathrooms, and even sneezing fits from certain “fresh-scented” sprays.

It made me pause. I started wondering: If it makes me feel this way after a few hours, what’s it doing to families living in these homes every day?

🧪 The Truth About Toxic Cleaners

Turns out, I wasn’t imagining things. Many common household cleaning products contain chemicals linked to health risks. Here’s what I found (and y’all—it’s wild):

1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are found in many air fresheners, glass cleaners, and disinfectant sprays. These can contribute to chronic respiratory issues and asthma. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that VOC levels inside homes can be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoors—and even higher during cleaning. [EPA]

2. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)

Quats are often found in disinfectants. A 2020 study published in Environmental Science & Technology linked them to reproductive harm and antibiotic resistance. [ScienceDirect]

3. Fragrance (aka “The Mystery Ingredient”)

The term “fragrance” can legally hide dozens of undisclosed chemicals. Some of these are allergens, hormone disruptors, and even carcinogens. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found that popular “fresh scent” cleaners can contain phthalates—chemicals linked to hormonal issues. [Safe Cosmetics]

4. Bleach and Ammonia

Both are powerful disinfectants, but they release toxic fumes—especially when mixed. Long-term exposure can irritate the lungs and skin. The American Lung Association warns against frequent use in unventilated areas. [ALA]

💛 What I Use Now (And Recommend to Everyone)

I wanted to find products that actually work but don’t leave behind a chemical cloud. After a lot of trial, error, and honest scrubbing, here are my absolute favorites:

✅ Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner

I love this stuff. It’s concentrated, safe on almost every surface, and rinses clean without residue. A few drops in water go a long way—kitchen, bathroom, floors—you name it.

Pro tip: Mix 1 tbsp of Sal Suds with 1 quart of warm water and a splash of vinegar for an all-purpose spray.

✅ A Good Steam Cleaner

Steam is a game-changer for deep cleaning—no chemicals needed. It kills bacteria, mold, and even dust mites using only heat and water. I use it on tile grout, upholstery, and even mattresses.

✅ White Vinegar + Baking Soda

These two old-school ingredients are still my go-to for deodorizing drains, cleaning glass, and scrubbing sinks.

✅ Microfiber Cloths

Skip the paper towels. Microfiber grabs dust, grime, and even bacteria without needing sprays.

✨ A Cleaner Clean

Switching to safer cleaning isn’t just better for the environment—it’s better for you. I’ve seen firsthand how homes feel lighter, air smells fresher, and my own body feels better after a day’s work. My clients often say: “It smells like nothing—and that’s a good thing!”

If you’re hiring a cleaner, don’t be afraid to ask what products they use. And if you’re doing it yourself—consider ditching the harsh stuff. Your body (and your family) will thank you. 💛

With love and sparkle,
Kayla
Owner, Pure Quality Cleaning Services LLC
St. Peterburg, FL

📚 Sources & References

Kayla Duhamel https://purequalitycleaning.com