Ever since I found out that I was pregnant with my Big Boy about four years ago, we’ve had a ban on conventional cleaning products in our household. At the time, I did some homework and found out how most common, popular household cleaning products and detergents were filled with toxic chemicals, VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and carcinogens.

In hindsight, I should have wondered at the smell, and the fact I always had a nasty headache after a cleaning stint. But in Canada, manfucturer’s are not required by law to list the ingredients on the label! (although some companies now voluntarily list ingredients). This, despite the fact that studies show some chemicals used in cleaning products increase your risk of cancer and asthma, headaches and skin irritations. Plus, this stuff is also often going down the drain into our water system.

If you are wondering about some of the cleaners under your sink, a good rule of thumb is, if the bottle has any poisonous or explosive symbols, there are some toxic chemicals in the product, and I’d avoid it. Another hint is if it says to use the product in a well-ventilated area. You know it must be bad!

Some chemicals to watch out for : toulene, benzene, xylene, methanol, ethylbenzene, and formaldehyde.

The good news is that there are now plenty of effective, safe, non-toxic cleaners on the market, in your local health food, or grocery store. I wrote about some of my favourites last week.

But I’ve started to experiment with making homemade cleaners and hope to eventually wean myself of most store-bought ones to save on packaging and to save money. Not long ago I bought a great book that is a great resource: Better Basics for the Home: Simple Solutions for Less Toxic Living. It is full of recipes for household cleaners, disinfectants, baby care, kids’ projects, art supplies, garden care etc.

Want to make your own exfoliating scrub, plant fertilizer, soap scum spray, antifreeze, or cradle cap cream for baby? This is your book. Over the next few months I’m going to have a crack at a few concoctions (I’ve already stocked up on washing soda, tea tree oil and Borax). I’ll let you know how it goes!