Cleaning your home should bring peace of mind, not raise health concerns. However, many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that may pose serious risks to your most vulnerable family members: children and pets. Because their immune systems are still developing, and because they often spend time closer to the ground, kids and pets are more likely to be exposed to harmful substances.
In this blog, we'll walk you through how to evaluate the safety of your cleaning products, what ingredients to avoid, and how to transition to safer, eco-friendly alternatives that protect your loved ones and the environment.
Why Kids and Pets Are More Vulnerable
Children and pets interact with your home in different ways than adults:
Babies and toddlers crawl on floors and put objects in their mouths.
Pets sniff, lick, and lie down on recently cleaned surfaces.
Their smaller size means toxins affect them more strongly, even in small doses.
That’s why ensuring your cleaning products are safe is crucial.
1. Understand the Dangers of Conventional Cleaning Products
Traditional cleaning products often contain the following harmful ingredients:
a) Ammonia
Found in glass cleaners and multi-purpose sprays. Can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
b) Chlorine Bleach
Common in toilet and surface cleaners. Highly toxic if ingested or inhaled, and can cause chemical burns.
c) Phthalates
Used in fragranced products like air fresheners. Known endocrine disruptors, especially harmful for children.
d) Sodium Hydroxide (Lye)
Found in drain and oven cleaners. Extremely corrosive and dangerous on contact.
e) Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)
Used in disinfectants. Can cause asthma and skin irritation.
f) Artificial Fragrances
These "fragrances" are often a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals linked to allergies and hormonal issues.
Key takeaway: Always read the label and be cautious of products that contain unclear or long chemical names.
2. How to Read Labels for Safety
Look for the following certifications:
EcoCert or USDA Organic (plant-based, minimal toxins)
EWG Verified (Environmental Working Group)
Cruelty-Free (not tested on animals)
Non-toxic or biodegradable
Avoid these warning signs:
"Keep out of reach of children"
Hazard pictograms (skull & crossbones, flame, etc.)
Ingredients list that says "fragrance" without disclosing what's in it
Tip: If a product doesn’t list its ingredients, it’s usually not a good sign.
3. Safer Alternatives to Common Cleaning Products
Instead of:
Bleach and ammonia cleanersUse: Vinegar + baking soda, or plant-based toilet/floor cleaners like those from Gleamsure
Instead of:
Artificial air freshenersUse: Essential oil diffusers or Gleamsure’s naturally fragranced room fresheners
Instead of:
Synthetic dishwashing liquidsUse: Biodegradable, coconut-based dishwash with no synthetic dyes or fragrances
Instead of:
Plastic scrubbersUse: Natural coir scrub pads that are non-toxic and compostable
4. Make Your Own Cleaning Solutions
Homemade cleaners can be incredibly effective and safe:
All-purpose cleaner
1 part white vinegar
1 part water
Few drops of tea tree or lemon essential oil
Glass cleaner
1 part rubbing alcohol
1 part water
1 tbsp vinegar
Floor cleaner
Bucket of warm water
1/4 cup vinegar
1 tbsp castile soap
Important: Always label DIY cleaners and store out of reach.
5. Key Safety Practices for Homes with Kids and Pets
Store all cleaners in locked cabinets
Clean floors with non-toxic floor cleaners as babies and pets spend a lot of time on them
Ventilate rooms after cleaning, even with natural products
Use gloves and rinse thoroughly when using even mildly acidic DIY solutions
Avoid spraying aerosols around kids or pets
Introduce new products gradually and observe for allergic reactions
6. How Gleamsure Keeps It Safe
At Gleamsure, we formulate our products with your family’s safety at heart:
100% plant-based formulas
Safe for kids, pets, and the environment
Free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial dyes
Eco-conscious packaging
Our floor cleaner, dishwashing liquid, and toilet cleaner are effective yet gentle—giving you peace of mind while keeping your home fresh and hygienic.
7. What to Do in Case of Accidental Exposure
Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Here’s what to do:
Eyes: Rinse immediately with cool water for 15 minutes.
Skin: Wash with soap and lukewarm water. Avoid rubbing.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Monitor for coughing or shortness of breath.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Call a doctor or poison control immediately.
Pro tip: Keep emergency contact numbers on your refrigerator or saved in your phone.
Final Thoughts
Your home should be a sanctuary, not a source of hidden hazards. By becoming more conscious about the products you use, you can create a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment for your children and pets.
Remember: always read labels, research ingredients, and opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly options whenever possible. Brands like Gleamsure make it easier than ever to clean with confidence.
Start small. Swap one product at a time. With each mindful change, you’re creating a safer home and a more sustainable future.
