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Best Non-Toxic Fabric Softener 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 fabric softener 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 Fabric Softener
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.
Fabric Softener, Morning Fresh - Ecover
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$25.00
Product Details
- Compatible with High Efficiency (HE) machines
- Helps to soften and freshen laundry
- Makes ironing easier and reduces static cling
- Gentle on skin
- Leaves a fresh plant-based fragrance
- Contains plant-based ingredients
- Features quick and complete biodegradability
- Has minimal impact on aquatic life
- Not tested on animals
- Safe for septic tanks
- Bottle and labels are made of 100% recyclable polyethylene, cap made of polypropylene
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Softening
- Mild-scented
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Thick
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: Aqua, Dipalmitoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate, Dipropylene Glycol, Fragrance, Sorbic Acid, Magnesium Chloride, Linalool, Citronellol
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.
Liquid Fabric Conditioner, Free & Gentle - Downy
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$12.99
Product Details
- Features 3X more odor removal power, acting as a laundry detergent booster to help remove stubborn odors and residues deep within fabrics.
- Rinses away residues for fresher, softer, and brighter fabrics compared to using detergent alone.
- Fragrance-free formula, gentle on sensitive skin and suitable for baby clothes and activewear.
- Does not contain dyes or heavy perfumes, ensuring it's safe for all types of fabrics.
- Can be used by pouring directly into the liquid fabric softener dispenser or into the rinse cycle of the washing machine.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Unscented
- Effective
- Fresh
Cons Mentioned
- Cumbersome
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: Diethylester Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-33, Pentasodium Pentetate, Formic Acid, Water
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.
Fabric Softener Pods, Lavender - Dropps
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.75
Product Details
- Enhanced softening efficacy: Dropps Fabric Softener Pods provide immediate action from the start of the wash cycle, evenly distributing for consistent softening and infusing a subtle scent.
- Soft touch formulation: The pods use mineral-based ingredients to leave laundry soft and smooth without sticky residue.
- Compatibility: Suitable for all types of washing machines (HE, standard, front, and top-loading) and effective in all water temperatures.
- Low waste packaging: The recyclable cardboard boxes are space-efficient, helping to maintain an uncluttered living environment.
- Trusted company: With over 20 years in the industry, Dropps is a B Corp certified company committed to high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
- Made in the USA: All products are developed and manufactured in the USA, ensuring quality and community support.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Eco-friendly
- Convenient
- Softening
Cons Mentioned
- Residue
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 Chloride, Bentonite, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf (Eucalyptus) Oil, Lavandula Hybrida (Lavandin) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf (Cornmint) Oil, Linalool, Polyvinyl Alcohol Film (PVOH)
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 Fabric Softener - Truly Free
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.95
Product Details
- Plant-based formula designed to rinse off hard water and tough stains
- Gently scented with a signature blend of essential oils for a wearable aromatherapy experience
- Contains no thickeners, dyes, optical brighteners, or synthetic fragrances, ensuring 100% natural effectiveness
- Recommended for use with the brand's Laundry Wash for optimal cleaning results
- Safe and non-toxic, suitable for babies and kids
- Backed by a money-back satisfaction guarantee
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Softening
- Fragrant
- Toxic-free
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: Potassium Citrate, Water, Trisodium Salt, Lauryl Trimethyl Ammonium Chloride, Clove Leaf Oil-Plant Based, Eucalyptus Oil-Plant Based, Lavandin Grosso-Plant Based, Fir Needle Oil-Plant Based, Lime Oil-Plant Based
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.
Fabric Softener with Essential Oils, Geranium & Lemongrass - Attitude
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.99
Product Details
- Enriched with essential oils for a luxurious sensory experience
- Made from plant and mineral-based ingredients with advanced deodorizing properties suitable for cold-water washing
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free, certified by PETA
- Designed with a refillable aluminum bottle to reduce plastic waste
- Herbaceous and floral aromatic blend features top notes of coriander and lemongrass, a floral heart of geranium and tea tree oil, and a base of woody patchouli and thyme
- Leaves clothes feeling fresher, softer, and more comfortable
- Biodegradable formula that is gentle on skin and eco-friendly
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Softening
- Fragrant
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Unpleasant
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% Cationic Surfactants (Dipalmitoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate - Antistatic, Detangling), <5% Non-Ionic Surfactants (Myristyl Glucoside - Cleansing; Caprylyl Glucoside - Cleansing, Surfactant)Contains Also: Water (Solvent), Glycerin (Humectant, Solvent, Viscosity Controlling), Isopropanol (Solvent), Calcium Chloride (Astringent, Viscosity Controlling), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil (Perfuming), Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil (Perfuming), Linalool* (Perfuming), Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Oil (Perfuming), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil (Perfuming), Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil (Perfuming), Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil (Perfuming), Sodium Hydroxide (Buffering), Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (Perfuming), Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Oil (Perfuming), Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Oil (Perfuming), Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil (Perfuming), Santalum Spicata Wood Oil (Perfuming), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Masking)
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.
Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, Unscented - Molly's Suds
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Composed of 97% plant-based materials, effective for softening fabric and reducing static.
- Designed for sensitive skin and eco-friendly use, free of waxes, dyes, harsh fragrances, and animal derivatives.
- Incorporates essential oils for a light, natural scent and a gentle feel on clothes.
- Certified Cruelty-Free by Leaping Bunny and manufactured in the USA.
- Convenience of use with compostable packaging, suitable for recycling post-use.
- Usability includes multiple applications from a single sheet, with variations in usage for different load sizes.
- Founded by a pediatric nurse aiming for safer, more transparent cleaning product ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Unscented
- Non-toxic
- Softening
Cons Mentioned
- Static
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: C16-18 Glycerides, Di-(Palm Carboxyethyl) Hydroxyethyl Methylammonium, Methyl Sulfates, C16-18 Fatty Acids, Natural Fragrances* *Derived From Natural Plant Essences And Oils, Safer Choice And ISO-9235 Compliant, Free Of Petrochemicals, Solvents, Dyes, And Pesticides
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.
Sensitive Skin, Hypoallergenic Baby Fabric Softener, Fragrance Free - Attitude
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.99
Product Details
- Made with plant-based ingredients including green tea extract.
- Features an advanced deodorizing formula to keep clothes soft and fresh.
- Hypoallergenic, free from dyes, optical brighteners, or artificial fragrances.
- Compatible with both HE (High Efficiency) and standard washing machines.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, certified by PETA.
- ECOLOGO certified, indicating a sustainable and biodegradable formula.
- Dermatologist tested and certified by the National Eczema Association.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Softness
- Natural
- Fragrance
Cons Mentioned
- Smells
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% Cationic Surfactants (Dipalmitoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate), <5% Non-ionic Surfactants (Caprylyl Glucoside, Myristyl Glucoside), Contains Also: Water, Glycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf (Green Tea/Thé Vert) Extract
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.
Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, Fragrance Free - Clean People
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Softens fabric and reduces static cling
- Vegan and cruelty-free product
- Formulated for sensitive skin
- Compatible with HE and all traditional washing machines
- Septic safe
- Product packaging made from post-consumer recycled plastic
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Softening
- Scent
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
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: Vegetable Glycerin, Starch, Pva, Potassium Sorbate, Light Mineral Oil, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Glyceryl Cocoate, Lauryl Glucoside, Residual Water
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.
Reusable Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, Fresh - PurEcosheet
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$16.95
Product Details
- Made of 99% polyester and 1% nylon, manufactured in North America.
- Hypoallergenic, free of chemicals, perfumes, and dyes, ensuring safety and comfort for sensitive skin and eczema or allergy sufferers.
- Reusable for hundreds of loads, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional dryer sheets.
- Does not leave chemical residues on clothes, maintaining the fabric's softness and freshness.
- Compatible with all fabric types, including delicate and technical fabrics, and does not stain or damage clothing.
- Safe for use with children’s sleepwear and cloth diapers, retaining flame resistance and absorbency.
- Vegan-friendly product that supports eco-friendly practices by reducing energy costs and keeping dryers clean and efficient.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Durable
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Static
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: 99% Polyester, 1% Nylon
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 Fabric Softener
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Methylisothiazolinone
Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.
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
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 ,
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas with a pungent smell that's naturally produced in small quantities in human bodies and is also known as methanal amongst other names. It's used in the production of various items such as fertilizers, paper, plywood, and urea-formaldehyde resins as well as in some foods and household products like antiseptics, medicines, and cosmetics. Exposure to formaldehyde, which can occur through breathing contaminated indoor air, tobacco smoke, or ambient urban air can lead to respiratory symptoms, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and has been linked to lung and nasopharyngeal cancer as well as leukemia. The EPA considers formaldehyde a probable human carcinogen (Group B1) and inhaling it can cause bronchospasm and pulmonary edema. Commercially, it's sold as formalin in solutions of 37%, 44%, or 50% and long-term exposure can cause first-degree burns, skin sensitization, squamous cell nasal cancer, and chronic pulmonary obstruction.
Sources:
Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk, Cleaning Products & Indoor Air Quality, No More Toxic Tub, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Preservatives, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Formaldehyde And Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives, Formaldehyde may be found in cosmetic products even when unlabelled, Formaldehyde Found in Popular American Beauty Products, Hair Salons - Formaldehyde in Your Products, Formaldehyde in cosmetic products
Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Chloride
Dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride is a skin irritant and can cause serious eye injury. It's typically not available as an isolated compound but primarily found in dihydrogenated tallow dimethyl ammonium chloride (DHTDMAC). DHTDMAC is a substance containing variable proportions of similar compounds having carbon chains ranging from C12 to C20. It can be commercially obtained in different forms like a paste-like substance, powder, or aqueous emulsion, with varying percentages of dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride. Studies on rabbits demonstrated that technical grade DODMAC, which has 77% dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride, was corrosive to skin and the pure compound could cause moderate skin irritation along with severe eye damage.
Galaxolide
Galaxolide is recognized as an established contact allergen in humans, according to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety's 2011 report on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products. This compound has been identified as a reproductive effector and acts as a moderate skin irritant, as documented in The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS).
Sources:
Galaxolide: A Threat to the Environment and Human Health, Prolonged sub-lethal exposure to galaxolide (HHCB) and tonalide (AHTN) promotes the metastatic potential of glioblastoma tumor spheroids, Galaxolide: A Long-lasting Fragrance Contaminating the Great Lakes, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Galaxolide, Human dermal exposure to galaxolide from personal care products, Human dermal exposure to galaxolide from personal care products, Molecule of the Week Archive: Galaxolide
Glutaraldehyde
Glutaraldehyde is a colorless, sharp-smelling oily liquid used for a variety of purposes, such as disinfection, sterilization of surfaces, oil and gas recovery, waste water treatment, x-ray processing, leather tanning, paper production, and as chemical intermediate for various other materials. It can also be found in select products like paint and laundry detergent. Although widely used, Glutaraldehyde can cause several health issues, including effecting asthma, allergic contact dermatitis, irritation to skin and respiratory tract, and in high concentrations, toxic hepatitis in mice. It's known to cause severe irritation to eyes and skin, and even small vapor concentrations can result in throat and nose irritation. Reports suggest that it was connected to 9% of work-related asthma cases among healthcare workers over a five-year period.
Benzyl Alcohol
Benzyl alcohol can occasionally lead to allergic contact dermatitis or occupational contact urticaria. It can irritate the skin and eyes, and inhalation at high quantities can result in central nervous system effects. Rats exposed to high concentrations showed no deaths, however, it has caused fatalities in premature infants when given in IV solutions at doses over 4.5mg/kg a day. The substance is quickly metabolized to hippuric acid and is noted as a known contact allergen in humans.
Benzisothiazolinone
Isothiazolinones are preservatives known to cause allergic contact dermatitis, primarily in workers involved in manufacturing industries like paint, paper, rubber, and air fresheners. Additionally, there's a reported case of occupational asthma from exposure to this chemical among workers.
Dipalmitoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium methosulfate
Dipalmitoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate has been linked to respiratory effects, developmental, endocrine, and reproductive issues, as well as acute aquatic toxicity. A compound with a similar structure is recognized as an asthmagen, leading to sensitization. Data from the European Union Ecolabel program indicates that this substance possesses high acute toxicity to aquatic organisms. The presence of quaternary ammonium compounds in human blood has been correlated with heightened inflammation, diminished mitochondrial function, and cholesterol disruption. Furthermore, this chemical, commonly found in dryer sheets, is known to cause allergic reactions, elevate the risk of asthma, and negatively impact reproductive health.
Sources:
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
d-Limonene
d-Limonene is a liquid with a lemon-like smell, often used as a solvent to substitute for more volatile and toxic organic solvents. When it comes into contact with air, it can oxidize, and this oxidized form is a known skin sensitizer, capable of irritating skin and eyes. The combination of d-limonene and l-limonene is known as limonene or dipentene. The estimated lethal dose for humans is between 0.5 to 5 g/kg, and studies have shown that it can cause diarrhea and liver effects when ingested in high doses.
Linalool
Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene alcohol found in many flowers and spice plants, consisting of two enantiomers. It is widely used in commercial products for its pleasant floral and spicy scent, serving as a key ingredient in soaps, fragrances, food flavors, household products, and insecticides. In plants, linalool functions as a metabolite, volatile oil component, antimicrobial agent, and aroma compound. Acute exposure to linalool can lead to central depressive effects with symptoms such as ataxia, reduced motor activity, and respiratory disturbances. Additionally, inhalation, oral intake, or skin absorption can result in irritation, pain, and allergic reactions.
Quaternium-15
Quaternium-15 is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics which is known to significantly contribute to allergic contact dermatitis in users. This condition has been reported in various professions, including hairdressers, machine maintenance engineers at a chicken processing plant, and photocopy workers. Notably, Quaternium-15, as a formaldehyde releaser, increases dermatitis risk. However, rinse-off products typically pose a lower risk of resulting in allergic contact dermatitis.
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda or lye, is an odorless white crystalline solid that absorbs moisture from the air. It generates significant heat when dissolved in water or neutralized with acid which may ignite combustible materials. It is highly corrosive and is typically used as a solid or in a 50% solution. Sodium hydroxide is used to manufacture a variety of products including soaps, rayon, paper, explosives, dyestuffs, and petroleum products. Exposure to this substance may cause severe burns, necrosis, and pulmonary edema, depending on the concentration and exposure method.
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