Best Non-Toxic Glass & Window Cleaner in 2024
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- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
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Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Pine - Dr. Bronner's
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
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User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Nature+ Window & Glass Cleaner, Citrus Zest - Attitude
Product Details
- EWG Verified: 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, PETA certified
- Effective in eliminating grease and dirt from glass and mirrors
- Infused with a crisp, refreshing aroma blending citrus, floral, and herbaceous lavender notes
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Affordable
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
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, Acetic Acid, Sapindus Mukorossi Fruit Extract (Saponins), Triethyl Citrate, Terpineol Acetate, Terpineol, Tetrahydrolinalool, Fragrance
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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
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.
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.
Homesolv Window & Glass Cleaner, Valencia Orange - Citra Solv
Product Details
- Formulated with real citrus extracts and vinegar for enhanced cleaning power
- Leaves a streak-free, shiny surface on glass, counters, chrome, and appliances
- Provides a superior shine with every use
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Safe
Cons Mentioned
- Breaks
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, Acetic Acid (Vinegar), Decyl Glucoside, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
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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.
Spray Glass Cleaner, Mint - Method
Product Details
- Comes in a 28-ounce bottle of glass cleaner.
- Made with plant-based ingredients for shine power.
- Provides a fresh-smelling, streak-free shine without the use of ammonia.
- Effective at eliminating dirt, dust, and handprints for a gleaming, streak-free shine.
- Usable on windows, glass tile, glass tables, and mirrors.
- Cruelty-free product, not tested on animals.
- Features a Mint fragrance composed of wild mint, crisp peppermint, and refreshing eucalyptus.
- Bottle is made from 10% recycled plastic (PCR), excluding the nozzle.
- Company focuses on doing business with a purpose.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Refreshing
- Eco-friendly
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: Water, Ethanol, Sodium Carbonate, Decyl Glucoside, Caprylyl Glucoside, Potassium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Polymeric Pink, Polymeric Blue
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.
Glass & Window Vinegar Wash, Lavender - Aunt Fannie's
Product Details
- Uses the power of vinegar and plant-based cleaners for effective cleaning.
- Capable of removing smudges, fingerprints, rain spots, oil, and dirt without leaving streaks.
- Applicable on various surfaces including windows, mirrors, light fixtures, chrome, and stainless steel.
- Recommended for use with a microfiber cloth for optimal results.
- Formulated with natural ingredients like vinegar, plant-based cleaner, and essential oils, providing a neutral scent with a hint of lavender.
- Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, ensuring suitability for sensitive users.
- A-rated by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) for safety and environmental impact.
- Cruelty-free, vegan, and made in the USA, highlighting ethical manufacturing practices.
- Aligned with the Environmental Working Group to reduce environmental impact and improve product safety.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Streak-free
- Pleasant
Cons Mentioned
- Streaky
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: Distilled White Vinegar, Sugar Surfactant (Caprylyl/Myristyl Glucoside), Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Rosemary Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Peppermint Oil, Orange Peel Oil, Lavandin 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.
Glass Cleaner, Lemon & Eucalyptus - Grove Co.
Product Details
- Provides streak-free cleaning for glass and mirror surfaces.
- Formulated with 100% natural fragrances derived from essential oils and plant extracts.
- Offers various fragrances, including Lemon & Eucalyptus, Lavender & Thyme, and Orange & Rosemary.
- Includes a durable, reusable glass spray bottle with a silicone sleeve and customizable Slide & Snap labeling system.
- Designed with sustainable packaging, utilizing infinitely recyclable glass and recycled paper to reduce plastic waste.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Eco-friendly
- Fragrant
Cons Mentioned
- Leaking
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, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Caprylyl/Myristyl Glucoside, Sodium Gluconate, Potassium Carbonate, Natural Fragrance, Benzisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Tetra Sodium Glutamate Diacetate, D-Limonene, Citral, Linalool, Geraniol
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.
Sparkling Glass Spray, Peppermint & Lemon - Rebel Green
Product Details
- Protects, revitalizes, and guards glass and mirror surfaces
- Formulated with ingredients derived from plant-based, renewable, and sustainable resources
- Part of the Natural Cleaning Revolution aimed at building a safer, cleaner planet
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Sparkle
- Streak-free
- Fresh
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, N-Methyl-Alkyl Glucamide And Propylene Glycol (Sulfate Free, Sugar Based Surfactant), Sodium Carbonate, Ethanol, Mentha Piperitas And Citrus Limon Peel Oil (Fragrance), Citric Acid
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
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
Common Harmful Chemicals in Glass & Window Cleaner
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
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.
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 ,
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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-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.
Diethanolamine is a chemical found in various consumer products like shampoos, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Acute exposure in humans can result in irritation of the nose, throat, and skin. However, no detailed data is available on its chronic, reproductive, developmental or carcinogenic effects on humans. Studies on animals reveal that acute oral exposure can influence the liver, blood, kidney, and central nervous system, while dermal exposure has been connected with an increased incidence of liver and kidney tumors in mice. Production of first-degree burns, skin irritation, occupational asthma, kidney, and liver injury risk, and potential skin sensitization are some other adverse effects associated with diethanolamine.
Chemical Safety Facts: Ethanolamines, NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Diethanolamine, California Environmental Protection Agency: Diethanolamine , International Agency for Research on Cancer: Diethanolamine, Initial List of Hazardous Air Pollutants with Modifications, What is the Toxics Release Inventory?, OPINION CONCERNING DIALKYL- AND DIALKANOLAMINES AND THEIR SALTS IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS, Ethanolamine Compounds (MEA, DEA, TEA And Others), WHAT ARE ETHANOLAMINE COMPOUNDS (DEA, MEA, OR TEA): CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, The Dirty Dozen: DEA-related ingredients, FDA: Diethanolamine, Chemical Profile: Diethanolamine ,
Butoxyethanol studies show severe effects in mice including hemoglobinuria and changes to the lungs, kidneys, and liver. Human volunteers exposed to 200 ppm for 8 hours showed no adverse effects except for mucous membrane irritation. There is, however, limited evidence of spontaneous abortions and decreased sperm counts in humans, and more conclusive evidence of birth defects and testicular damage in animals. Humans are resistant to butoxyethanol-induced red blood cell hemolysis.
Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.
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.
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.
Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether, when administered orally or through the skin in doses exceeding 800-1000 mg/kg/day, can cause central nervous system depression and changes to the liver and kidneys in animals. However, it doesn't exhibit significant developmental toxicity at these levels. The chemical is not expected to have adverse effects unless workers are exposed to its heated liquid mists. It is an eye irritant and provokes harm to the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, red blood cells, and reproductive system in animal feeding studies. Despite these potential harms, it is poorly absorbed through the skin.
Ethyl acetate is a volatile substance, recognized by the U.N. International Drug Control Programme for its potential to cause narcosis when inhaled. It is also listed as an irritant to the eyes and respiratory tract. Furthermore, when subjected to high concentrations, ethyl acetate can cause adverse effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS).
Ethylene glycol is a synthetic, odorless liquid with a sweet taste and water absorption properties. It is commonly used in antifreeze and de-icing solutions for vehicles, hydraulic brake fluids, and certain inks. Although lethal in large ingested quantities, leading to central nervous system depression, cardiopulmonary effects, and renal damage, exposure to low levels can cause minor throat and upper respiratory tract irritation. Chronic exposure in animals has demonstrated kidney toxicity and liver effects. Despite its potential toxicity, ethylene glycol poisoning is unlikely through skin contact and inhalation at room temperature due to its low volatility, though caution should be taken if the liquid is heated or sprayed.
Ethylene oxide is a flammable, sweet-smelling gas that easily dissolves in water. This man-made compound is primarily used to create ethylene glycol, which is used to make antifreeze and polyester, and is also used in small quantities for controlling insects in stored agricultural products, sterilizing medical equipment and fumigating spices. Ethylene oxide may cause irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, damage to the brain and nervous system, reproductive effects, and is considered by the EPA to be carcinogenic if inhaled. Exposure risks, which are notably prevalent for healthcare workers engaged in sterilization tasks, include CNS depression, eye and mucous membrane irritation and in some cases, cataracts. Despite these hazards, there are conflicted reports regarding ethylene oxide's carcinogenicity in humans.
Ethylene oxide derived glycol ethers: A review of the alkyl glycol ethers potential to cause endocrine disruption, Adverse health effects of ethylene oxide and occupational exposure limits, Campaign For Safe Cosmetics: Ethoxylated Ingredients, Ingredient Breakdown: ETHYLENE OXIDE, Ethylene Oxide Overview, What is Ethylene Oxide?, Ethylene Oxide Hazard Summary, FDA Authority Over Cosmetics: How Cosmetics Are Not FDA-Approved, but Are FDA-Regulated, DEFINE ETHOXYLATES OR ETHOXYLATED SURFACTANT AND ITS APPLICATIONS?, Known and Probable Human Carcinogens, OSHA Fact Sheet
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.
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
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).
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
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.
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 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.
Ethylene glycol ethers are associated with kidney injuries in rats and rabbits during 10-month inhalation toxicology studies. In humans, there's limited evidence revealing spontaneous abortions and decreased sperm counts as potential side effects. The substance is also linked to birth defects and testicular damage in animals, based on strong, positive evidence.