Is It Safe To Use Cleaning Products While I’m Pregnant?
Most mothers are advised not to expose themselvs to any environmental or chemical toxins. From this arises the concern over the safety of using cleaning products during pregnancy. Without doubt chemicals are bad for the developing fetus. Apart from that there are also certain norms to be kept in mind.
The Possible Risks From Using Cleaning Products:
The range of chemicals used in household cleaning products is wide. As a result, every chemical affects differently. For example, some of the chemicals tend to very irritating to the skin of the mother because during pregnancy the skin becomes extra sensitive. Fumes of some chemicals can lead to breathing and lung problems. Carcinogens, like formaldehyde or perchloroethylene, present in certain products can lead to possibilities of birth defects, if the exposure is heavy. Nitrobenzene found in furniture has often been linked to birth defects and cancer. The strong chemicals in cleaning product are capable of doing harm if the mother is repeatedly exposed to them, in high level.
Alternative To Chemical Cleaning Products:
One of the easiest ways of diffusing the dangers of chemicals present in cleaning products is by opting for the organic cleaning products. Such products are not only health-friendly; they also save the fetus from exposure to toxic chemicals. Some of such natural cleaning product substitutes are baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice and even essential oils. One can also buy organic cleaning products which include the above mentioned ingredients. The costs of such products are usually higher than the standard chemical ones.
Steps For Safe Cleaning:
Not everyone may opt for organic products. Hence, for the ones who insist in cleaning with the standard products, they should maintain certain guidelines for their own and the baby’s safety. The guidelines are as follows-
The main concern of chemical products is its toxic fumes. One should make sure the room, where the cleaning will be done, is well ventilated so that the fumes can escape. If the areas which are to be cleaned are devoid of windows or other ventilators, it is better to make the partner clean that area. It is not good for the mother to inhale the toxic fumes which become stronger in a closed space.
The mother should make sure to wear gloves and other protective clothing. As mentioned earlier, the mother’s skin is extremely sensitive during this time and hence needs good protection from the toxic chemicals.
It is mandatory to read the instructions and warnings labels given on the container of the product.
One should never ever try to mix different chemicals in order to clean anything. The resultant mixture can end up being very dangerous for the mother. For example, if one mixes ammonia and bleach together, the fumes can be very dangerous for anyone to inhale, more so in case of the pregnant mother.
In case the mother feels nauseous from the fumes or gets a headache, she must immediately leave the room, lie down or go get some fresh air until these symptoms are gone.
