Lauren University of IllinoisUsername: lthomps17

Pictured: “Comet” Disinfectant cleanser, “Pledge” Furniture spray, “Clorox” Cleaner & Bleach, “Scrubbing Bubbles” Bathroom Cleaner, “Windex” Glass Cleaner, “Dawn” dish soap, “Clorox” Bleach, “All” Laundry Detergent

“Pledge” Furniture spray

Ingredients: “Naphtha (Petroleum), Light Alkylate, Water, Carrier, film formers, Corrosion inhibitor, Propellant, Emulsifiers, pH Adjuster, Fragrance, Thickener, Preservative, SCJ Formula #16413”

Two adverse impacts to health from Pledge cleaner:

1. NAPHTHA (PETROLEUM), LIGHT ALKYLATE —“High concern for damange to DNA, cancer, Moderate concern for general systemic and organ effects” (rated an F)

2. Fragrance - “Some concern for skin irritation/allergies/damage, acute aquatic toxicity, nervous system effects, respiratory effects, biodegradation (rated a D)

On the WFM Eco-Scale Rating System, the “Pledge” furniture spray would be in the “red” category and would not be carried at the Whole Foods Market. The product

could not even be in the orange category for ingredients that pose safety concerns and other reasons.

The “DIY” cleaning supplies that I chose to make was made in this (pictured) recycled spray bottle that I found in my house.

Ingredients: Water, ½ cup white vinegar, ¼ cup baking soda

Price: Water (free), vinegar ($1.00) and baking soda (.49)

Will I consider making the switch? Yes, I will consider it. This way is better for the home, for the environment, and is much cheaper than spending loads of money on expensive and harmful cleaners!! The container can even be reused, and it is a much better alternative. Making the initial change could be hard because of the appearance of the cleaner, but so many benefits make it easier.