Scientific
Studies:
MCS
Higher domestic chemical exposure during pregnancy may be
associated with persistent wheeze and lung function abnormalities in infants
and children, according to a study conducted at the University of Bristol, UK.
Researchers determined a maternal composite
household chemical exposure (CHCE) score for a group of subjects. Lung function and self-reported wheezing were
used to compare subjects with varying CHCE scores.
Higher maternal composite household chemical
exposure (CHCE) scores were correlated with onset of persistent wheezing in
children. This may provide evidence that
common household cleaning chemicals contribute to childhood asthma.
Researchers believe this results from prenatal
developmental and/or postnatal irritant effects of household chemicals on the
developing airway.
This study provides some evidence to support
switching to more natural cleaners such as baking soda, vinegar, and
peroxide.
Baking soda is edible, yet it is an excellent
replacement for laundry soap, scouring powder, and can even be mixed with water
to make a spray cleaner.
White vinegar not only softens fabrics, but
also deodorizes. A small amount diluted
in a spray bottle makes an excellent air freshener that does not merely cover
up odors like fragranced air fresheners do.
Peroxide has many uses, including cleaning and
bleaching. It is especially useful to
bleach cutting boards and laundry.
Applied immediately after cleaning with vinegar, some believe the
combination kills more germs than bleach.
Yet, it’s safe enough to use as a mouth rinse and first aid
antiseptic.
Cleaning is the removing of dirt and
dust. Generally all that requires is
vacuuming, sweeping, mopping with water, and wiping things down. The chemicals are often unnecessary and even
harmful, as this study shows. Most
chemicals simply add fragrance and harsh cleaning power, which is not necessary
for ordinary household maintenance. As
asthma rates soar, we must look to safer cleaning.
Reference
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© 2007 MCS