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Did you know?
The average household contains 62 toxic chemicals (source).
They usually come in an innocent looking bottle, you can buy it at the supermarket and it sits in your cupboard at home. At first glance, these products don’t appear to be hurting anyone. However, it’s what’s on the inside that matters most. Household fabric protector sprays and cleaning products are the silent sinners, wreaking havoc on our health and the environment.
For years, mainstream fabric protectors were praised for their remarkable ability to repel anything from water to wine, dirt and oil. We’ve since discovered that the adverse effects of these toxic stain guards significantly outweighs their value when they contain fluorocarbons, which are believed to be carcinogenic. So much so, that one of them had to be banned a few years ago, when traces of the toxic chemical it contained were found in blood samples of the general population.
Protecting fabrics using highly toxic products is coming at a significant cost to our health and the environment. Knowing what’s actually inside the bottle and what each ingredient does to our health is the first step in banishing the bad guys once and for all, and in finding eco friendly alternatives.
The main culprits
Until now, the hazardous and toxic chemicals in fabric protector sprays may have simply been words on the back of a bottle that you probably glanced over. Most of us are unable to pronounce these words, let alone comprehend their effects on our livelihood.
Keep your eyes peeled for these chemicals:
- Hydrotreated heavy naphtha
- Propane, Butane, Isobutane or Ethylbenzen
- Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane
- Flammable Aerosole
These chemicals, known as PFAS, PFOS or PFC, are manufactured compounds that do not break down. This applies to the environment, and also to our bodies. Exposure to these harmful toxins can lead to their accumulation in our bodies, raising the likelihood of long term health concerns. In tests, 3M gave very high dosages to monkeys, who had convulsions, and to rats, whose offspring died.
The main culprits that contain these toxic ingredients are fabric protectors and water repellent sprays, but also cleaning products, paints, varnishes, non-stick cookware and (even more shockingly) personal care products. Other toxic additives include fragrances and carcinogens, which can be problematic for allergy or asthma sufferers.
What they’re doing to you
Studies* undertaken on humans with PFA exposure have shown that the compounds could induce the following:
- Growth, learning or behavioural defects in children
- Reduced fertility
- Hormonal imbalances
- Increased cholesterol levels
- A weakened immune system
- Increased risk of cancer
- Disruption to liver, thyroid & pancreas function
Scientists are continuing to study the effects of PFAs on human health, and it’s likely the results will be daunting.
*Sources: NSW Government, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, USA Environmental Protection Agency, MLive.com.
Make the change to non toxic products
It’s time to detox your home and put your family’s health first! The good news is non-toxic household products exist. Choose water-based fabric protectors and natural all-purpose cleaners that won’t pose a long term risk to you and your family’s health. Contrary to popular belief, eco friendly stain guards are actually more effective and durable than mainstream products containing unnecessary, harmful ingredients.
Start making smart choices that will have a positive effect on your future! View our range of non-toxic fabric protectors and start protecting your family, as well as your fabrics.