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Best Non-Toxic Laundry Stain Remover in 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
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What you should know when choosing non-toxic laundry stain removers 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.
Find Non-Toxic Laundry Stain Remover
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User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
OxoBrite Multi-Purpose Stain Remover, Unscented - ECOS
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$30.99
Product Details
- Fragrance-free
- Removes mold and mildew stains
- Works on a variety of materials, excluding wool, silk, and leather
- Made of replenishable/sustainable ingredients
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Non-toxic
- Versatile
Cons Mentioned
- Packaging
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 Carbonate Peroxide, Sodium Carbonate
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User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Oxygen Bleach Stain Remover, Unscented - AspenClean
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.99
Product Details
- Zero plastic packaging using 100% recycled paper, fully compostable.
- Made with biodegradable, plant-based ingredients.
- Effective at removing dirt, grime, and grease while being safe for baby, pet, and sensitive skin.
- Compatible with all laundry types, enhancing both white and colored fabric vibrancy.
- Does not contain harsh chemicals or toxins, hypoallergenic formulation.
- EWG Verified™ with an A-rating, emphasizing safety for family and planet.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Safe
- Non-toxic
Cons Mentioned
- Clumpy
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 Carbonate, Sodium Carbonate Peroxide, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Silicate
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.
Laundry Stain Removal Soap Stick, Unscented - Meliora Cleaning Products
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$10.99
Product Details
- Easy to use: Rub the stain stick on wet fabric with warm water to work up a lather, then wash as normal for effective stain removal.
- Concentrated solid formula: Designed to minimize waste and environmental impact.
- Plastic-free packaging: Comes in a recyclable and compostable paperboard box.
- Transparent ingredient list: Made with organic coconut-oil based soap, with all ingredients clearly listed on the label.
- Ethically produced: Manufactured in the USA by a woman-owned, B Corp Certified small business.
- Environmentally conscious certifications: Ingredients are MADE SAFE certified, Leaping Bunny certified, vegan, and free from harsh chemicals like bleach and chlorine.
- Supports environmental causes: Donates 2% of annual revenue to environmental initiatives.
- Non-toxic composition: Sodium cocoate and vegetable glycerin effectively dissolve stains without added fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Eco-friendly
- Non-toxic
Cons Mentioned
- Messy
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 Cocoate (Vegetable Soap), Cocos Nucifera Oil (Organic Coconut Oil), Glycerin
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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.
Enzymatic Laundry Stain Remover and Odor Eliminator, Lemon - naturally it's clean
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.95
Product Details
- Utilizes plant-based enzymes for powerful stain removal and odor elimination.
- Effectively removes a variety of stains including red wine, food, coffee, tea, grease, and oil.
- Designed to leave clothes with a natural fresh smell after use.
- Contains a biodegradable enzyme formulation that is fabric-safe and targets only stains.
- Product application involves shaking, spraying, and rubbing into stains; repeat if necessary.
- Free from parabens, artificial dyes, alcohol, ammonia, sulfates, artificial fragrances, phosphates, petroleum, SLS, and bleaching agents.
- Developed with high potency natural enzyme technology, ensuring quality and effectiveness.
- Product packaging is reusable and refillable, supporting environmental sustainability.
- Not tested on animals, adhering to ethical production standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Safe
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: Water, Plant-Based Enzyme Blend, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside (Plant-Based Surfactant), Dipropylene Glycol, Benzisothiazolinone, Sodium Hydroxide (Preservative), Lemon Natural Essential Oil Fragrance, Sodium Formate (Natural Stabilizer)
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.
A Little Red Wipe of Emergency Stain Rescue Wipes, Unscented - The Hate Stains Co.
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$17.99
Product Details
- Professional, commercial grade formula that safely removes stains in the presence of kids and pets.
- Effective on both fresh and set-in stains on a variety of fabrics.
- Safe for use around the environment, free from perfumes or dyes, and bears a Safer Choice certification.
- Comprehensive stain removal, effective on organic and inorganic spots such as grass, mud, ketchup, coffee, chocolate, baby formula, pet stains, grease, and blood.
- Easy to use: simply spray, blot, rinse, and watch stains disappear.
- Product forms available include wipes and sprays for convenient use during travel or at home.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Versatile
- Convenient
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: Ethoxylated Alcohol C12-C15, Glycerin, Sodium Sulphite, Ethanol, Citric Acid, Wood Pulp, Lyocell
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.
Emergency Stain Remover Spray, Unscented - The Hate Stains Co.
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Fast-acting and powerful commercial-grade formula, safe for use around kids and pets.
- Effective on both fresh and set-in stains, suitable for most fabric types.
- Free from perfumes or dyes, environmentally friendly with a pH neutral formula.
- Removes a wide range of stains including grass, mud, ketchup, coffee, chocolate, baby formula, pet stains, grease, and blood.
- Easy to use by simply spraying, blotting, rinsing, and watching the stains disappear.
- Applicable for use on clothing, upholstery, carpets, and more.
- Stain remover is Safer Choice certified, indicating it meets U.S. EPA safer product standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Versatile
- Convenient
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: Ethoxylated Alcohol C12-C15, Glycerin, Sodium Sulphite, Ethanol, 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.
Natural Oxygen Brightener Stain Remover, Unscented - Clean People
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Powerful, chlorine-free whitener formulated with earth and plant-derived ingredients.
- Effectively eliminates yellowing from whites and greying from colored fabrics, restoring garment brilliance.
- Suitable for whitening whites and brightening colors on all types of fabrics including mixed colors.
- Works as an effective stain treatment across all colors, especially effective on light-colored clothing and linens.
- Can be used for removing oil, wine, baby stains, and makeup from clothes.
- Vegan and cruelty-free; does not test on animals.
- For every 96 pack sold, a tree is planted in the customer's name.
- Usage involves soaking stained items in hot water with 2 scoops of Oxygen Brightener for up to 2 hours or applying a paste directly to stains until dry, then brushing off and laundering as usual.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Easy
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Resealable
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 Percarbonate, Sodium Carbonate, Citric Acid, Organic Lemon 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.
Household Stain & Odor Remover, Fresh Citrus - Begley's
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$12.98
Product Details
- Utilizes enzyme action to eliminate stains and odors from organic proteins
- Effective on various odors including spilled milk, tobacco, food, and garbage
- Suitable for use on multiple surfaces such as carpets, drapes, tile, wood, and upholstery
- Safe for use in different areas including kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and living spaces
- Plant-based formula that is biodegradable and environmentally friendly
- Comes in a recyclable non-aerosol bottle
- Free from alcohol, making it safe around pets and people
- Product is made in the USA
- Developed in collaboration with eco-industry leader Lab Clean Inc.
- Supports a safer home environment without harmful chemicals
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Non-toxic
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Defective
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, Proprietary Enzyme Blend, Natural Fragrance Blend, Phenoxyethanol
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.
Stain Remedy Spray, Unscented - Forever New
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.00
Product Details
- Gentle cleaning base won't harm clothes from delicates to tough work garments.
- Effectively removes common stains like blood, coffee, grease, and wine.
- Contains no bleach, brighteners, dyes, phosphates, lanolin, or petroleum ingredients.
- Certified as not tested on animals.
- Easy application process allows for 'apply, set, and forget' usage.
- Specially formulated to be gentle on fabrics, including colorfast items.
- Designed to clean, brighten, and extend the life of garments.
- Rinses completely from fabric, leaving no damaging residue.
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
- Available in both original scent and unscented versions.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Helpful
- Effective
- Necessary
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
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.
Stain Remover Bar Soap - Truly Free
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.95
Product Details
- Made without peroxide, chlorine bleach, phosphates, SLS, dimethicone, surfactants, silicone products, glycol, dyes, fillers, 1,4-dioxane, chlorine, DEA, thickeners, formaldehyde, petrochemicals, or optical brighteners.
- Effectively removes food stains from clothing, newborn and infant items, bibs, cloth diapers, furniture, rugs, carpets, and linens.
- Designed to treat tough stains including berry juice, baby food, formula, ketchup, spaghetti sauce, dirt, red wine, blood, armpit stains, and oil stains.
- Compact and travel-friendly, ideal for treating stains on-the-go.
- Produced in the USA, Michigan.
- Constructed from saponified coconut and olive oils.
- Packaging reseals to maintain freshness.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Non-toxic
- Popular
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: Terpene of Pine Oil, Oxalic Acid, Saponified Oils of Coconut & Olive, Sodium Hydroxide, Water, Lemon 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.
Natural Stain Remover - Truly Free
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$17.96
Product Details
- Tough on stains, gentle on fabrics: Deep cleans without harsh chemicals found in commercial stain removers.
- Utilizes water-based natural enzymes to effectively break down food, blood, and grass stains.
- Environmentally friendly formulation: Free from thickeners, dyes, optical brighteners, and synthetic fragrances.
- Enhances cleaning power when used with Truly Free Laundry Wash, recommended usage is one scoop per load.
- Products are made in the USA, supporting local manufacturing.
- Contributes to social impact projects that empower women and children in need.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- No Scent
- Removes stains
- Excellent
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: Amylase, Lipase, Mannanase, Sodium Bicarbonate, Protease
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.
Stain Remedy Gel, Unscented - Forever New
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.00
Product Details
- Gentle cleaning formula that extends the life of garments
- Effectively removes common stains such as blood, coffee, and grease
- Contains no bleach, brighteners, dyes, phosphates, lanolin, or petroleum, making it environmentally friendly
- Not tested on animals, ensuring ethical manufacturing practices
- Simple application process that works on stains with minimal effort
- Safe and effective on any fabric, including colorfast items
- Natural base that rinses completely, leaving no damaging residue
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Available in both original and unscented options
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Gentle
- Amazing
Cons Mentioned
- Difficult
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 Stain Remover Concentrate, Fresh - Alevai
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.00
Product Details
- Eco-friendly and made from natural, biodegradable ingredients that are safe for the environment.
- Non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.
- Effective at removing tough stains such as coffee, wine, grease, pet stains, and grass with over 500 uses.
- Versatile, suitable for a wide variety of surfaces and fabrics including carpets, upholstery, clothing, and more.
- Plant-based formula eliminates the need for multiple cleaning products, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness.
- Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan certified, and SLS-Free.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Versatile
- Eco-friendly
Cons Mentioned
- Strong
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 Laundry Stain Remover
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
2-Butoxyethanol
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.
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 Hypochlorite
Sodium hypochlorite is a clear liquid with a strong chlorine odor, predominantly used as bleaching agents or disinfectants in commercial cleaning solutions and water purification systems. Sodium hypochlorite is often used in a dissolved state. It is corrosive to skin and can cause pulmonary edema from high inhalation exposure. Its ingestion can lead to methemoglobinemia, and a 3% to 5% solution causes burnings of the mouth and throat. The anhydrous form of this compound is highly explosive.
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 ,
Disodium Distyrylbiphenyl Disulfonate
Disodium Distyrylbiphenyl Disulfonate does not cause skin irritation but can cause serious eye irritation in rabbits, as classified by the EC. It does not trigger skin sensitization in guinea pigs, yet it can lead to somnolence and dyspnea when inhaled in high concentrations by rats. While certain sources note it may cause transient eye irritation without any skin irritation or sensitization, it is confirmed that a 29-31% aqueous solution of the same is indeed an eye irritant.
Sodium Borate
Sodium borate, a toxic white powder, is used in various products ranging from cleaning agents and personal care items to children's toys for pH adjustment. Commonly known as borax, it's found in cleaners, detergents, air fresheners, diaper creams, and some toys like playdough. Although often considered a "green" component, sodium borate can lead to organ system toxicity, fertility issues, harm to an unborn child, endocrine disruption, skin allergies, eye and respiratory irritation, and damage to the male reproductive system. Canada has imposed restrictions on its use in cosmetics.
Sources:
Assessment of consumer exposure to boron in cleaning products: a case study of Canada, Watch Out For Borax, Borax: Not the green alternative it's cracked up to be, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout ,
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is primarily used to create salts that aid in the processing of producing fluoropolymers and fluoroelastomers. It also acts as a surfactant in firefighting foams, an intermediate in creating fluoroacrylic esters, and a crucial aspect in manufacturing Teflon and similar chemicals. However, exposure to PFOA can lead to adverse health effects, including alterations in thyroid hormone levels, lower fertility, an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease, higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels, a possible link to ADHD, smaller abdominal circumference and birth length in infants, an increased risk of common cold and gastroenteritis in children, and potentially prostate cancer mortality. Studies on animals have indicated possible liver and brain dysfunction, carcinogenicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity. Ecotoxicity studies found alterations in genes linked to lipid metabolism, hormone action, immune responses, and mitochondrial functions in rare minnows exposed to PFOA.
Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS)
Perfluoroalkyls are synthetic chemicals known for their ability to resist oil, grease, and water, primarily used in surface protection products and fire-fighting foams. The two most abundant perfluoroalkyls are perflurooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS). Studies have observed liver enlargement and elevated cholesterol in animals given high doses, and the presence of PFOS in various populations has raised environmental and health concerns, leading to the phase-out of some PFOS-based chemicals. Tests have shown a range of health effects in animals, including eye irritation, liver changes, teratogenic effects, and more, with no evidence of mutagenicity. However, no substantial link has been found between PFAS concentrations and increased cardiometabolic risk measures in human studies, and there are no known health effects from exposure when used as intended.
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.
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.
Diethanolamine
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.
Sources:
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 ,
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.
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
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.
Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid, a clear and highly corrosive liquid, is employed in the creation of fertilizers, other acids, and glue, and is used in petroleum purification, metal pickling, and lead-acid batteries. It can cause severe burns, is a potential human carcinogen, can trigger pulmonary edema, and may erode tooth enamel.
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