The Best Home Cleaning Products to Use During Pregnancy

When pregnant, it is important to be mindful of what cleaning products are used. Cleaning products often contain toxic substances that can cross the placental barrier to the fetus and potentially affect their development. It is important to use safe home cleaning products during pregnancy to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

What to Expect recommends Seventh Generation Fragrance Free Dishwasher Detergent Packs, GO by Green shield Organic Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Truce Wood Cleaner, Babyganics All Purpose Surface Wipes, Attitude Sensitive Skin Natural Laundry Detergent, Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda and Lemi Shine Shower + Tile Cleaner for home cleaning during pregnancy.

ECOS All-Purpose Cleaner Orange Plus is also recommended as an all-purpose cleaner.

It is important to be cautious when using cleaning products while pregnant as some may contain toxic substances that can harm the baby’s development. 

Pregnant? You don’t need to worry about using potentially dangerous household products any more. Read on to discover the top pregnancy-safe items.

Safe Cleaning Product Guide

Cleaning your home can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to avoid harsh chemicals and toxins. Fortunately, there are plenty of safe cleaning products available in East Tennessee that can help you keep your home clean without sacrificing your health.

This guide provides natural, effective cleaning supplies that are readily available in local stores so you can easily find the right product for the job. To quickly check the toxicity rating of cleaning products, visit www.. You can also download the EWG app to check out the toxicity levels of beauty products and food while in stores.

When using any type of cleaning product, it’s important to keep the room well-ventilated with fans and open windows for fresh air.

If you’re pregnant or have young children at home, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to reduce exposure to chemicals. Additionally, download the Pregnancy Safety Packet for tracking what should be avoided during pregnancy. 

Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner: This all-purpose cleaner is formulated with plant-based ingredients and is free of fragrances, dyes, and chlorine bleach. It is safe to use on a variety of surfaces and is designed to safely remove dirt, grease, and grime.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day All-Purpose Cleaner: This all-purpose cleaner is made with plant-derived ingredients, including essential oils and other natural ingredients. It is safe to use on a variety of surfaces and is designed to safely remove dirt, grease, and grime.

Method All-Purpose Cleaner: This all-purpose cleaner is formulated with naturally derived ingredients and is free of fragrances, dyes, and chlorine bleach. It is safe to use on a variety of surfaces and is designed to safely remove dirt, grease, and grime.

Mrs. Meyers Clean Day Glass + Surface Cleaner: This glass and surface cleaner is formulated with plant-derived ingredients and is free of fragrances, dyes, and chlorine bleach. It is safe to use on a variety of surfaces and is designed to safely remove dirt, grease, and grime.

Here are a few homemade cleaners that you can use while you’re pregnant:

All-purpose cleaner: Combine 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1/2 gallon of water in a spray bottle. Shake well and use as a general cleaner for surfaces such as countertops, appliances, and floors.

Window cleaner: Combine 1/4 cup vinegar and 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Shake well and use to clean windows and mirrors.

Carpet cleaner: Combine 1/4 cup vinegar, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1/2 gallon of warm water in a bucket. Use a scrub brush to scrub the mixture into the carpet, then blot with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.

Soft scrub cleaner: Combine 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup liquid soap, and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl. Mix well and use to clean sinks, tubs, and other surfaces.

Toilet bowl cleaner: Combine 1/2 cup baking soda, 1 cup vinegar, and a few drops of essential oils (optional) in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a few hours before scrubbing and flushing.

Remember to always wear gloves and use caution when handling cleaning products, even natural ones, and to ventilate the area well. If you have any concerns about the safety of a particular cleaner, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider or a trusted source for advice.

Chemicals to avoid when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding

When pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to be aware of the potential risks posed by certain chemicals. Pesticides and herbicides can have adverse effects on developing and newborn babies, so it is best to avoid them while pregnant and have a licensed pest control professional do the treatment instead.

Pesticides used in the home are usually safe, but it is still best to limit exposure as much as possible. Additionally, phthalates should be avoided as they can increase the risk of congenital reproductive anomalies in male fetuses.

Spray and aerosol cleaners should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to their potential link with asthma. Instead, look for natural, organic cleaning products that don’t contain any harsh chemicals.

This will help ensure that you and your baby are not exposed to potentially harmful substances during this important time. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and your baby from any potential health risks associated with chemical exposure.

Retinoids (isotretinoin and tretinoin)
Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, and bro-no-pol)
Parabens (methylparaben, propyl-paraben, and butylparaben)
Phthalates (DEHP, DBP, DEP, and DMP)
Oxybenzone (found in sunscreen)
Triclosan
Lead
Mercury
Hydroquinone
Perchloroethylene (found in dry-cleaning solvents)
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Toluene (found in nail polish)

There are certain chemicals and substances that pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid, as they can potentially harm the developing fetus or baby. These include:

Mercury: Found in certain types of fish, such as swordfish and shark, as well as in certain cosmetics and skin-lightening creams.

Lead: Found in some hair dyes, as well as in old paint, pipes, and ceramic dishes.

Phthalates: Found in certain plastics and personal care products, such as nail polish, lotions, and hair sprays.

Parabens: Found in certain cosmetics, such as makeup and deodorants.

Formaldehyde: Found in certain hair straightening treatments and nail hardeners.

Toluene: Found in some nail polish and hair dyes.

Oxybenzone: Found in some sunscreens, as well as in some lotions and lip balms.

Retinoids: Certain topical retinoids, Vitamin A derivates, that are found in some anti-aging skin creams should be avoided during pregnancy as they can cause birth defects.

It’s important to note that the risk from these chemicals is typically considered to be low, and in many cases, the benefits of using a product may outweigh the potential risks. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s a good idea to check the labels of the products you use and to talk to your doctor or a pharmacist if you have any concerns.

It is also important to eat a well balanced diet, to take the prenatal vitamins, and get enough rest and physical activity which can help protect both the mother and the developing baby.