In our quest for a healthy and environmentally friendly home, the use of effective and non-harmful cleaning products is becoming essential. In 2025, a multitude of brands offer a variety of solutions, but how can we make the most informed choices? This article will guide you through the different facets of cleaning products, from understanding them to making them at home, while providing practical advice to protect your health and that of your environment.
The Risks of Cleaning Products: Study and Findings
A study conducted by the Scientific and Technical Center for Construction (CSTB) in collaboration with the National Institute for Industrial Environment and Risks (INERIS) and co-funded by ADEME highlights the problem of industrial cleaning products. The report, published in April 2019, reveals that manufactured products emit higher concentrations of particularly harmful chemicals than homemade products. Hazardous Compound Analysis
As part of this study, 33 product references were analyzed, including 27 commercial products and 6 homemade products. The problematic substances highlighted include:
Formaldehyde
- : Used as a preservative, this compound is classified as a carcinogen by the WHO. Acetaldehyde
- : A colorless gas that can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract. Acetonitrile
- : Toxic by inhalation and skin contact. Acetone
- : Although used in nail polish remover, it can cause headaches with prolonged exposure. Isopropanol
- : Known for its cleaning properties, but can also cause irritation. Limonene
- : A potential allergen found in many essential oils. While homemade products may seem less problematic, some can also release harmful substances, particularly due to the use of essential oils. It is therefore advisable to reduce their quantity in homemade formulas.
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The study results suggest that the health risks associated with the cleaning products tested are considered low, but this should not lead to negligence. Indeed, half of the substances released have not yet been adequately evaluated to determine their toxicity. ADEME thus emphasizes the importance of limiting exposure to cleaning products.
How to choose your cleaning products safely
Knowing how to choose the right products is essential to limit exposure to harmful substances. Here are several practical tips to guide your purchases in 2025.
Read labels carefully
The first step in ensuring the safety of your environment is to read labels carefully. Check the ingredient list to familiarize yourself with the compounds to avoid. In addition to the substances mentioned above, pay attention to statements such as “toxic,” “irritant,” or “harmful.”
Prioritize natural ingredients
Choosing products made with natural ingredients is a wise move. Some ingredients known for their effectiveness and low health impact include:
Lemon juice
- : an excellent natural disinfectant. White vinegar
- : known for its descaling and antibacterial properties. Sodium bicarbonate
- : a degreasing and deodorizing agent. Marseille soap: skin-friendly and biodegradable.
- Black soap: excellent for cleaning surfaces. Washing soda: effective for descaling and disinfecting.
- By incorporating these ingredients into your cleaning routine, you can reduce the risks associated with chemicals while keeping your home clean. Discover rinse-off products, your ideal ally for fast and efficient cleaning. Enjoy a flawless rinse-off experience to restore shine and cleanliness in no time.
- Use unscented products The artificial fragrances found in many cleaning products can mask harmful ingredients. It is therefore recommended to choose unscented products or those delicately scented with essential oils in limited quantities. Remember, a healthy home doesn’t necessarily mean a pleasant scent! Consult the Ménag’Score to assess toxicity
The 60 Million Consumers association has introduced the Ménag’Score, a labeling system that classifies cleaning products based on their impact on health and the environment. According to this system, products are rated from A to E. It is therefore crucial to refer to this classification to make an informed choice, especially since some products from the same brand can have very different scores.
Description
A
Very safe product with little or no health risks.
B-C Acceptable products, but use with caution.D-E
| Products to avoid due to their potential health risks. | Making your own cleaning products: a wise choice |
|---|---|
| Making household products at home is a growing trend. It offers several undeniable advantages: better control over the composition, reduced costs, and a minimal ecological footprint. | Ingredients to choose from when making your own |
| Here are some key ingredients for creating your own cleaning products: | Baking soda |
| : for degreasing and deodorizing. | White vinegar |
: for limescale removal and disinfectants.
Marseille soap
: ideal for laundry and delicate surfaces.
Black soap
- : for use on wooden or garden surfaces. Soda crystals
- : for deep cleaning. Simple and effective recipes
- Some homemade recipes are easy to prepare: For a multi-purpose cleaner: mix 250 ml of white vinegar, 250 ml of water, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil.
- For a homemade laundry detergent: grate 100 g of Marseille soap, add 1 liter of hot water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. For a bathroom cleaner: mix 200 ml of white vinegar and 100 ml of baking soda to create an effective paste. Discover the benefits of properly rinsing your food and beauty products. Learn rinsing techniques for better hygiene and increased effectiveness. Transform your daily routine with practical tips and essential tricks.
- Precautions to take when making your own products When making your own products, it’s important to follow a few guidelines:
Measure accurately
: to avoid damaging surfaces.
- Avoid dangerous mixtures
- : for example, don’t mix vinegar and baking soda before applying.
- Store safely
Using cleaning products: best practices
Correct use of products is just as important as their selection.
- Tips for applying commercial products Follow instructions
- : always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Ventilate rooms
- : open windows to allow air circulation. Rinse surfaces
: to remove product residue that can be toxic.
Limit the number of products used: choose a multi-purpose product to avoid unwanted interactions.
Avoid sensitive areas: do not allow vulnerable people such as children or the elderly to enter the home while cleaning.
- Using homemade products: It is recommended to… Test on a small area first: to avoid any potential damage.
- Use labeled containers: this helps avoid confusion. Store in dark containers: to maintain their effectiveness.
- FAQ: Answers to your questions about cleaning products: 1. Which cleaning products are the most harmful?
- Products containing formaldehyde, acetone, or artificial fragrances are often considered the most harmful. 2. How can you reduce indoor pollution from cleaning products?
- Choose natural products, ventilate your home regularly, and avoid mixing different products. 3. Is it really possible to make your own cleaning products? Yes, many recipes exist, and the ingredients are often natural and inexpensive.
4. Where can you find natural ingredients to make your own products?
You can find them in supermarkets, organic stores, or consider online platforms.
- 5. Should every cleaning product be rinsed after use? It is recommended to rinse surfaces after use to remove chemical residue and avoid irritation.
