National Library of Medicine's Household Products Database

Unlike personal care products, I find myself less skeptical about the hazardous effects of household products. Maybe it is because I know that almost all cleaning procucts contain chemicals and chose to use those products against bacteria. 

In order to conduct an environmental risk assmessment of my household products, I used the National Library of Medicine's Household Products Database. I chose to assess two household products. 

The first product I assessed was Lysol Mold & Mildew Remover Complete Clean with Bleach, Pump Spray-Old Product. 

 

Health rating 3

Precautionary Statements: Hazards to humans and domestic animals. Warning: Causes eye and skin irritation. Do not get in eyes, on a skin or on clothing. Vapors may irritate. Use only in well-ventilated areas. Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors. Not recommended for use by persons with heart conditions or chronic respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema or obstructive lung disease. HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED. For sensitive skin or prolonged use, wear rubber gloves.

 The second product was Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner with Bleach, Fresh Scent, Pump Spray

 Health rating 2 

This chemical is considered hazardous by the 2012 OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) Warning. Causes mild skin irritation. Causes serious eye irritation. 

• Were you surprised to find out the toxicity rating of your household products? I was not surprised by toxicity ratings since I knew that both of these products contain a lot of chemicals and always used protective tools, such as gloves and ventilation. 
• Did you decide to change any of your consumer behaviors based on your findings? Since I am aware of the hazardous effects of both household products, I always use rubber gloves and open windows while using those products. I don't think I will change my consumer behaviors because based on findings. I love when it is clean and safe at home and I believe that it is reasonable to protect yourself from the potential side effects of those products rather than do not use them. To me keeping my home clean is critical. 
• Should everyone know about this risks and why don’t they? Yes, everyone definitely should consider the hazardous effects of cleaning products and protect themselves from those effects. Unlike personal care products, I think, most of us are aware of the toxicity of household and cleaning products. I remember, while we were making a list of exposures in class, all of us named household and cleaning products toxic.