Need an excuse to stop cleaning while you're pregnant? (Other than that you're too tired or too uncomfortable.) Here are a few:
1. Women who use a lot of household cleaning products when they're pregnant (or shortly after birth) increase their child's risk of developing asthma by 41percent.
2. Many oven cleaners and window cleaners contain glycol ethers, which have been known to increase a woman's risk of miscarriage; most mildew removers contain phenols, which may increase the risk of birth defects or fetal death.
3. Cleaning products often have strong odors, which won't hurt the baby, but which can make an already morning sick mom-to-be feel even queasier.
Obviously your house should be clean for your new arrival, so here's how to clean it safely:
1. Have someone else clean it for you. (Hello significant other!)
2. If you must do it yourself, keep your windows open while cleaning and wear gloves.
3. Try natural DIY cleaners (baking soda, vinegar and water) or choose organic, nontoxic store brands that are free of fragrances and dyes.
For more information on household cleaning products and pregnancy, visit these sites:
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Household Products Database
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Are you still cleaning house while pregnant? Are you taking any precautions while using cleaning products?
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Comments (10)
I'm a military spouse, if I ever finally get pregnant again, I will certainly be cleaning. If I am pregnant this month (while it's unlikely, I'm still hopeful!) I will be cleaning my butt off, we are moving to a new house that needs to be cleaned and then I will have to clean my old appartment.
I plan to just talk to my doctor about which cleaning supplies are safer than others.
That is why I use a mix of vinegar, water and tea tree oil to clean and sanitize most things in my house, completely safe.
Vinegar works to clean windows... and some vinegar and backing soda in the toilet is also a great cleaner. We have no need to buy or use the products you are talking about!
Vinegar and baking soda clean everything. No need for chemicals at all! Much safer to have around after the baby comes too.
I am also a fan of vinegar and baking soda:)
vinegar & baking soda pregnant momma over here too! I also love how my toddler daughter can help me clean anything in the house:)
Whether you're pregnant or NOT, you should get rid of all your toxic cleaners! In utero or out, they're hazardous to your baby (not to mention YOU and your husband, and any pets!).
RanaAurora, that is why we made the switch from conventional cleaners a long time ago!
DreaKevAiyana, I know what you mean. I love the fact that my daughter can help or even be in the room while I'm cleaning!
You guys are so right, it is SO nice after you make the switch. I remember when we used to use chemicals..wondering if I wiped out the tub enough after cleaning it to where it wouldn't bother my sons skin, wiping the table down with water AFTER cleaning it to make sure there was no residue, etc, etc. Way less work to clean with natural stuff.
Same, aurorabunny. I used to clean AFTER cleaning to try to get rid of the chemicals and toxins. So much easier to clean only once AND feel safe enlisting small minions.