Switching to Non-Toxic Household Cleaning
Its Easier Than You Think
If you’ve ever walked into a freshly cleaned home and felt your throat burn from the harsh chemical smell, you’re not alone. Many store-bought cleaning products contain synthetic fragrances, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals that can irritate your lungs, disrupt hormones, and even contribute to long-term health issues. Given how much time we spend indoors—especially in the UAE, where ACs run year-round—it’s worth considering a switch to non-toxic cleaning alternatives.
The Hidden Dangers of Conventional Cleaners
Most traditional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good, especially in enclosed spaces. Here’s why you might want to ditch them:
Indoor Air Pollution – Synthetic cleaning sprays release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can irritate the lungs and worsen allergies.
Hormone Disruption – Many conventional detergents contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that may interfere with hormonal balance.
Toxic Residue – Cleaning surfaces with chemical-heavy products can leave behind harmful residues that you and your pets end up inhaling or absorbing through your skin.
Environmental Impact – When these chemicals get washed down the drain, they contribute to water pollution and harm marine life.
Making Your Own Non-Toxic Cleaners
If you want full control over what’s in your cleaning products, DIY solutions are an easy and affordable option. Here are a few simple swaps:
All-Purpose Cleaner – Mix equal parts vinegar and water with a few drops of lemon essential oil for a natural disinfectant.
Glass Cleaner – A mix of water, white vinegar, and cornstarch works wonders for streak-free mirrors and windows.
Scrubbing Paste – Baking soda and water make an excellent abrasive cleaner for sinks, tiles, and tough stains.
Fabric Freshener – Instead of synthetic sprays, try a mix of water, witch hazel, and essential oils in a spray bottle.
If you want more cleaning power and to remove the fear that natural isn't doing enough against germs, Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap and their heavy duty version, Sal Suds can be added to your natural cleaning regime. It's a personal favourite and their one product, the Pure Castille Soap has replaced numerous products in my home: hand soap, floor cleaner, surface sprays and washing up liquid.
Best Non-Toxic Cleaning Brands in the UAE
If DIY isn’t your thing, don’t worry—there are plenty of brands offering safer alternatives. Here are some of the best options available in the UAE:
Dr. Bronner's – A well known and trusted chemical-free cleaning products made with essential oils since the 1940's.
ATTITUDE – A Canadian brand available in UAE stores, free from harsh chemicals and pet-safe.
Method & Ecover – Available at Carrefour and Kibsons, these brands offer biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning sprays and detergents.
