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Best Non-Toxic Bathtub Cleaner in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic bathtub cleaner on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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Find Non-Toxic Bathtub Cleaner
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Pine - Dr. Bronner's
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.69
Product Details
- Versatile all-purpose cleaner suitable for cleaning floors, laundry, dishes, furniture, and cars, without irritating skin.
- Effective in both hard and soft water, rinses freely in hot or cold water and rapidly biodegrades.
- Formulated with plant-based surfactants that cut grease and dirt, producing copious suds.
- Mildly scented with pure fir and spruce essential oils, free from synthetic dyes, fragrances, or preservatives, phthalates, and ammonium compounds.
- Product ingredients are never tested on animals and bear the Leaping Bunny logo for cruelty-free certification.
- Contains the purest organic and fair trade ingredients, promoting regenerative organic farming practices to enrich soil and increase biodiversity.
- Certifications include USDA Certified Organic, Fair For Life, Certified Vegan, Certified Leaping Bunny, and B Corp, ensuring ethical standards and environmental responsibility.
- Supports various causes like regenerative agriculture, fair trade, wage equality, and animal welfare.
- Emphasizes sustainability with a commitment to using renewable energy and post-consumer recycled plastic in product packaging.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Versatile
- Concentrated
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Coco-Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Abies Siberica (Siberian Fir) Needle Oil, Picea Glauca (Spruce) Leaf Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Hydroxide
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner, Green Tea & Lime - Puracy
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.99
Product Details
- Recognized as "The Best All-Purpose Cleaner" by The New York Times
- Effectively formulated to clean any hard surface without causing streaks
- Developed and tested by PhDs, this plant-based formula addresses a wide range of household stains and residues including food, soda, grease, and more
- Usable on multiple surfaces such as kitchen countertops, electronics, hardwood floors, jewelry, and various metals and stones
- Designed to reduce plastic usage by 90% and comes concentrated enough to create one gallon of cleaner
- Safe for children, pets, and all household surfaces; hypoallergenic, vegan, and gluten-free
- Ensures sparkling, residue-free results on diverse surfaces
- Biodegradable and cruelty-free, never tested on animals
- Produced in the USA
- Infused with a scent of freshly steeped green tea leaves and lime with a touch of herbs
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Efficient
- Natural
- Versatile
Cons Mentioned
- Sticky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Purified Water, Decyl Glucoside (Sugar-Based Cleanser), C6-C12 Alcohol Ethoxylate (Sugar-Based Cleanser), C12-C15 Alcohol Ethoxylate (Plant-Based Cleanser), C9-C11 Alcohol Ethoxylate (Plant-Based Cleanser), Citric Acid (Plant-Based pH Neutralizer), Sodium Citrate (Plant-Based pH Neutralizer), Natural Green Tea & Lime Botanical Extracts, Benzisothiazolinone (Biodegradable Preservative)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Disinfectant & Deodorizer, Unscented - Force Of Nature
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$79.50
Product Details
- Kills 99.9% of germs, viruses, and bacteria using electrolyzed water comprised of tap water and a capsule containing salt, water, and vinegar.
- Approved by the federal Environmental Protection Agency as a disinfectant and sanitizer with registration number 93040-1.
- Replaces multiple cleaners including those for kitchens, bathrooms, and glass, functioning as a disinfectant and deodorizer as effective as bleach on numerous surfaces.
- Utilizes non-toxic chemicals, free from added fragrances, dyes, preservatives, surfactants, or irritants; safe to use without gloves and does not require rinsing on baby or pet toys.
- Environmentally friendly, designed to reduce plastic waste by using recyclable activator capsules that lower plastic waste by 97%.
- Product set includes a 12 oz Electrolyzer Appliance, Power Cord, 5 Activator Capsules, a 12 oz Reusable Spray Bottle, a Quick Start Guide, and a User Manual.
- Effective for hard non-porous surfaces against pathogens like Staph, MRSA, Salmonella, Norovirus, Listeria, Influenza A, and Pseudomonas when used as directed.
- Recommended to use cleaner within 2 weeks of production for maximum potency.
- Suitable for use in a variety of establishments including hospitals, schools, restaurants, and homes.
- Tips for homes with hard water: Use of a water softener or reverse osmosis filtered water is suggested to prevent mineral interference and prolong appliance life.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Easy
- Safe
Cons Mentioned
- Leaky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Salt, Vinegar
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Powder Cleanser for Kitchens & Bathrooms, Unscented - Bon Ami
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$6.75
Product Details
- Hypoallergenic and non-toxic formula
- Free from chlorine, perfumes, and dyes
- Cleans without scratching surfaces
- Effective on various surfaces including kitchens and bathrooms
- Polishes surfaces and absorbs odors
- Biodegradable composition
- Ingredients are simple and listed on the package
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Non-abrasive
- Gentle
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate (Limestone), Feldspar Powder, Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash), Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), C10-C16 Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (Surfactant)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Cleaning Paste, Lemon Thyme - Earthley Wellness
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.99
Product Details
- Made with natural soap and baking soda for thorough scrubbing on tough dirt.
- Available in Lemon-Thyme scent with natural essential oils for a fresh smell; unscented option also available.
- Effective on sinks, tubs, tiles, and more, promoting a polished and shiny surface.
- Uses eco-friendly, biodegradable, and plant-based ingredients.
- Safe for use in septic systems.
- Designed for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and on tile floors; a small amount is sufficient for cleaning.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Reliable
- Safe
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Saponified Olive Oil, Saponified Coconut Oil, Saponified Castor Oil, Baking Soda, Filtered Water, Lemon Essential Oil, Thyme Linalool Essential Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Tub and Tile Cleaner, Lavender & Thyme - Grove Co.
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.99
Product Details
- Includes a 2-pack Lavender & Thyme scented Tub and Tile Cleaner concentrate and a clear reusable spray bottle.
- Effective in removing hard water build-up and four times more soap scum compared to other natural brands.
- Formulated with 100% natural fragrance using essential oils and plant extracts, with scent options like Lavender & Thyme, Lemon & Eucalyptus, and Orange & Rosemary.
- The reusable cleaning spray bottle is made from partially-recycled glass and features a silicone sleeve with a Slide & Snap labeling system.
- Designed to reduce plastic waste, packaged in recyclable glass and recycled paper.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Eco-friendly
- Effective
- Aromatic
Cons Mentioned
- Slow-acting
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Lavender Blossom & Thyme Scent: Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Abies Sibirica Ledeb (Siberian Fir) Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllata (Clove) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Mentha Arvensis Piperascens (Mint) Oil, Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Thyme Oil, Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Terpene Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Gentle Home Cleaning Scrub Powder, Peppermint Tea Tree - Meliora Cleaning Products
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.99
Product Details
- Effective on most hard surfaces such as stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic tiles, and stovetops.
- Safe for application on surfaces by sprinkling, scrubbing, and rinsing for residue-free cleaning.
- Made with non-toxic ingredients including baking soda and organic coconut oil-based soap.
- Scented with organic essential oils such as peppermint and tea tree.
- Concentrated dry powder formula designed to minimize waste and environmental impact.
- Packaging is plastic-free, utilizing recyclable paper and steel canisters.
- Produced in the USA by a woman-owned, B Corp Certified small business.
- Ingredients are certified by MADE SAFE, Leaping Bunny, and are vegan-friendly.
- Product donates 2% of annual revenue to environmental causes.
- Free from bleach, chlorine, dyes, synthetic fragrances, and other harsh chemicals.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Gentle
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Sodium Cocoate (Vegetable Soap), Cocos Nucifera Oil (Organic Coconut Oil), Glycerin, Mentha Piperita Oil (Organic Peppermint Essential Oil), Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil (Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Nature+ Hypoallergenic Daily Shower & Tile Cleaner, Citrus Zest - Attitude
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.99
Product Details
- EWG Verified for clean ingredients and full transparency
- Made with ≥ 94% naturally sourced ingredients
- Contains powerful naturally sourced ingredients with cleaning properties
- Bottle made from easily recyclable HDPE #2 plastic
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free, certified by PETA
- Designed to eliminate soap scum, mildew, and grout in showers and tiles
- Infused with a crisp and refreshing citrus zest aroma
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Fresh
- Non-toxic
Cons Mentioned
- Leaky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: <5% Non-Ionic Surfactants (Caprylyl Glucoside, Myristyl Glucoside), Contains Also: Water, Sodium Gluconate, Propanediol, Citric Acid, Sapindus Mukorossi Seed Extract (Saponins), Triethyl Citrate, Terpineol Acetate, Terpineol, Tetrahydrolinalool, Fragrance
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Multipurpose Surface Cleaner, Fresh Linen - L'Avant Collective
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$22.99
Product Details
- Provides a powerful clean to remove grease and grime
- Features a fresh linen scent
- Bottle made from recycled plastic
- Refillable using multipurpose concentrate
- To use: spray on surface and wipe with a clean, dry cloth; for tougher messes, let sit for 30 seconds before wiping
- Cruelty-free and never tested on animals
- Leaping Bunny certified
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Fragrant
- Cleans
- Non-toxic
Cons Mentioned
- Leakage
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Alkyl Polyglucoside, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Carbonate, Denatured Alcohol, Citric Acid, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, 1, 2 Hexanediol, Natural Fragrance, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Oil
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Bathtub Cleaner
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium hydroxide is a corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. High concentrations, either through inhalation or prolonged exposure, can lead to significant respiratory issues, including inflammation, pneumonia, and pulmonary edema. It is used in various industries such as fertilizers, dyes, explosives, plastics, and cleansing agents, among others. Due to its intense pungency and potential to cause extreme irritation and even life-threatening conditions, precautions such as wearing protective clothing and immediate cleansing of affected areas are recommended. It should be stored away from combustibles and heavy metals, in well-ventilated areas and in specified containers. Disposal guidelines also need to be referred from environmental regulatory agencies due to the hazardous nature of the substance.
Sources:
The Facts About Ammonia, Chemical Safety Facts: Ammonia, ATSDR Chemical Profile, EPA: Ammonia, Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater, EPA Chemical Profile, Mass Casualties from Acute Inhalation of Chloramine Gas, Ventilatory disorders associated with occupational inhalation exposure to ammonia, Ecological and toxicological effects of inorganic nitrogen pollution in aquatic ecosystems: A global assessment, TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE FOR AMMONIA ,
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric acid is used in multiple industries like chlorides, fertilizers, dyes, electroplating, and others. It has dangerous health effects like irritation and inflammation of eyes, nose and respiratory tract, and pulmonary edema after short-term inhalation; corrosion to mucous membranes, esophagus, and stomach and severe burns after oral exposure; dermatitis, photosensitization, gastritis and chronic bronchitis after long-term occupational exposure. While the EPA hasn't classified hydrochloric acid for carcinogenicity, many chemicals can spill to release HCl in water.
Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate
Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate is toxic upon ingestion and act as a strong oxidizer, posing a fire hazard when exposed to organic materials. It may react violently with combustible substances and decompose due to heat or water, releasing toxic gases such as chlorine. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract, and prolonged exposure can result in corrosive skin burns. Inhalation of high concentrations can lead to acute pulmonary edema. It may also explode from shock, friction, or other ignition sources, and can cause fires upon contact with combustible materials.
Triethanolamine
Triethanolamine appears to cause occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis in machinists and photographers, as well as liver and kidney damage in animals with high-dose feeding. It's noted to be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, with potential to cause skin sensitization, though the rate of skin sensitization in humans is low. Triethanolamine has low acute toxicity, with median oral LD50 values of 4,190-11,260 mg/kg in rats and 5,300-8,000 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and a median dermal LD50 greater than 2,000 mg/kg in rabbits. Triethanolamine is not carcinogenic, developmental toxicant, or toxic to the reproductive system. However, chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.
Sources:
Safety assessment of triethanolamine and triethanolamine-containing ingredients as used in cosmetics, Toxicology of mono-, di-, and triethanolamine, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Ethanolamine Compounds (MEA, DEA, TEA And Others), The Dirty Dozen: DEA-related ingredients, Chemical Profile, Special Chem, Safety assessment of triethanolamine and triethanolamine-containing ingredients as used in cosmetics
2-Nonylphenol
Monoalkyl phenols are primarily para substituted technical mixtures that have isomeric branched-alkyl radicals as side chains. This compound is corrosive to skin and can cause first-degree burns with short-term exposure. High inhalation can result in respiratory tract irritation, potentially leading to corrosive injuries to the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Moreover, it is harmful upon ingestion.
Butoxydiglycol
Diethylene glycol ethers is a chemical that has been found to have hematologic, liver, and kidney effects. Exposure to large amounts, about 250 mg/kg/day, can lead to central nervous system depression and other organ damage in rats and may decrease red blood cell counts. It does not show genotoxic, mutagenic, liver, kidney, blood, or reproductive toxicity in animals or humans, but it is classified as an exceptional allergen. The material can be absorbed through the skin and is identified as a mild skin irritant and a severe eye irritant. Notably, its toxicity is lower than that of ethylene glycol ethers.
Denatonium Benzoate
Denatonium Benzoate causes somnolence, tremor, and ataxia in rabbits and rats according to oral lethal-dose studies and is harmful by ingestion. It is one of the most bitterly known substances, with a 1980 case report linking it to urticaria and asthma. The European Union classifies it as highly toxic by inhalation and a potential cause of serious eye injury. Lastly, it is a strong eye irritant and skin irritant according to the Sigma-Aldrich Material Safety Data Sheet.
Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether
Diethylene glycol ethers is a chemical that has been found to have hematologic, liver, and kidney effects. Exposure to large amounts, about 250 mg/kg/day, can lead to central nervous system depression and other organ damage in rats and may decrease red blood cell counts. It does not show genotoxic, mutagenic, liver, kidney, blood, or reproductive toxicity in animals or humans, but it is classified as an exceptional allergen. The material can be absorbed through the skin and is identified as a mild skin irritant and a severe eye irritant. Notably, its toxicity is lower than that of ethylene glycol ethers.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Butylphenyl methylpropional, also known as lilial, is a chemical compound commonly used in cosmetics and laundry powders. It is found naturally in crow-dipper and tomato plants and is also produced synthetically in large quantities. In May 2019, the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) deemed its use in cosmetics as unsafe. Following animal studies indicating reproductive toxicity, the EU banned its use in cosmetics by March 2022. Moreover, butylphenyl methylpropional can sometimes serve as an allergen, potentially leading to contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals.
Sources:
Fragranced consumer products: exposures and effects from emissions, 10 reasons to avoid synthetic fragrances in cleaning products, Synthetic chemical in consumer products linked to early death, study finds, Review of the Styrene Assessment in the National Toxicology Program 12th Report on Carcinogens, Expert Panel Confirms that Fragrance Ingredient Can Cause Cancer, Fragrances, Beyond the Label: Health Impacts of Harmful Ingredients in Cleaning Products
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic Acid is corrosive to the skin and eyes, with 70% technical solutions causing severe burns. It also irritates the respiratory tract and may lead to kidney failures. The chemical can cause burns when inhaled, leading to possible injuries to the upper respiratory tract and lungs. It is also harmful if ingested.
Laureth-7
Laureth-7, a surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol sourced from coconut or palm oil, is commonly used in personal care and household products, especially laundry detergents. In detergents, it functions by reducing surface tension between water and soil, aiding in the removal of dirt, stains, and oils from fabrics. This ingredient belongs to the Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs) family, which is found in various consumer goods. Despite past contamination concerns, modern manufacturing processes have addressed and eliminated these issues. Although PEGs are not used in certain personal care products, their inclusion in machine detergents is deemed acceptable since they don't directly touch the skin.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (CMI) is a compound frequently used as a preservative in cosmetics, hygiene products, and other industrial applications such as hydraulic fracturing fluids. It can also be deployed as a pesticide in the U.S, pending regulatory approval. CMI, which is often used in combination with 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (MI), can cause contact dermatitis in humans. Various animal studies have shown that a high exposure to a CMIT/MIT mixture can cause alterations in rats' liver function. The production and use of CMI in a range of products mean it can be release into the environment, with some susceptibility to degradation through photolysis in sunlight. Its mobility in soil is high but volatilization from soil or water surfaces is not expected to be significant. Occupational and general exposure to CMI can occur especially through inhalation and dermal contact with CMI-containing products.
Sources:
Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Methylisothiazolinone toxicity and inhibition of wound healing and regeneration in planaria, Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products, Isothiazolinone Biocides: Chemistry, Biological, and Toxicity Profiles, Methylisothiazolinone and isothiazolinone allergy, Analysis of isothiazolinones in environmental waters by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, Methylisothiazolinone induces apoptotic cell death via matrix metalloproteinase activation in human bronchial epithelial cells, EU REGULATIONS , Methylisothiazolinone contact allergy: a review, Effects of methylisothiazolinone and octylisothiazolinone on development and thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae, Two Cases of Chloromethylisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone-associated Toxic Lung Injury, An update of the risk assessment for methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) with focus on rinse-off products, Effects of a mixture of chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone on peripheral airway dysfunction in children, Isothiazolinone preservative: cause of a continuing epidemic of cosmetic dermatitis, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Monoethanolamine
2-Aminoethanol is a colorless, viscous liquid that, despite not being registered for pesticide use in the U.S, holds vast potential in a variety of applications. It can be used in cutting fluids, production of soaps, surfactants, salts, corrosion control inhibitors, pharmaceuticals, and even in protective topical solutions against chemical warfare agents. Used as a pharmaceutical adjuvant, 2-Aminoethanol is effective as a solvent for fats and oils and in creating emulsion formulas like lotions and creams. However, it poses health risks, as a 5.9% concentration can irritate human skin and inhalation may cause allergic reactions, liver damage, and liver symptoms.
Phosphoric Acid
Phosphoric acid, in liquid or solid form, can cause second-degree burns upon contact within minutes. It's usually shipped as a solid or an 85% solution and is corrosive to skin when the concentration is over 70%. This acid is also an irritant to the eyes, skin, and upper respiratory tract, however, the risk of pulmonary edema is minimal.
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