The Dangers of Mainstream Household Products

In today’s society, we are accustomed to purchasing household items from brand-name companies without even batting an eye. After all, these companies have been deemed trustworthy, reliable, and authoritative. However, how often do we stop to consider the potential harm that non-green chemical products may cause to our bodies and the environment? Oftentimes, if we do have any reservations about these products, we justify our purchases with self-talk such as “I barely use this anyway,” “just this once,” or “I wear gloves so I’m protected.” We also tend to believe that eco-friendly products are more expensive and less effective than traditional products.

This belief, however, is a common misconception. Eco-friendly products are more gentle than their caustic counterparts and may require more use in some cases, but there are tons of alternatives to the corrosive chemicals we use around the house that work just as well, if not better. One of the most amazing all-purpose cleaners, for example, is white vinegar, which has absolutely no harmful qualities.

The trouble is, our minds have been conditioned by years of advertising to choose products based on the lowest price and the biggest brands. We don’t always think logically when making snap decisions, as we’re drawn to specific products based on factors such as wording, color, and even font. “Voted #1 Stain Remover” appeals to our consumer mind much more than a higher priced alternative claiming to be “natural” or “eco-friendly,” which for some reason makes us think it won’t work as well. The truth, however, is that mainstream household products could be dangerous to our health, and our skepticism towards eco-friendly alternatives could very well be the death of us.

The Rising Demand for Green Products

On the bright side, more and more people are starting to shop for green products, and more and more companies are jumping on the eco-friendly bandwagon. These products are no longer just found in specialty stores like Whole Foods. Even mainstream grocery stores and drugstores are starting to carry them, and big name brands are coming out with more and more green and eco-friendly products. For example, I recently came across a new “green” product by a big name brand— an eco-friendly water and stain repellent called Hydro-Lok by Rainguard.

Hydro-Lok is a single component nano-based superhydrophobic treatment. This basically just means that it’s a water repellent made of fluoropolymers. Fluoropolymers have been extensively researched and found to be safe by US and international regulatory agencies, including the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority. While some concerns over PFOA (a chemical used in the manufacture of fluoropolymers) have been raised, it is removed in the final stages of production and studies show that PFOA is non-detectable in products containing fluoropolymers.

Hydro-Lok is also non-flammable and breathable. Unlike most water and stain repellents, which come in pressurized aerosol cans and have been proven to negatively impact the environment, are dangerous to human health, and create hazardous waste, Hydro-Lok comes in a spray bottle. The product meets strict environmental standards and does not produce volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) that exceed the highest air emission standards in the country.

Putting Eco-Friendly Products to the Test

After researching the safety of Hydro-Lok, I decided to put its efficacy to the test. The product recommends usage on materials and items such as leather, canvas, metal surfaces, patio furniture, wood, boots, gloves, tents, and more. I tried it on my own UGG boots, a pair of white shoes, a cushion, and a white (faux) leather jacket. Water beaded off and did not stain as promised, and ketchup wiped off without a stain. The product worked just as well as other non-eco water and stain repellents I’ve used in the past, most of which came in aerosol cans.

While Hydro-Lok is a little more expensive than its predecessors, its safety and environmentally-friendly factors make it more than worth the cost. The same goes for all the green and natural products I use at home, such as laundry detergent, dish detergent, disinfectants, shaving cream, toothpaste, etc. Some of them are by green brands like Seventh Generation, while others are natural or eco-friendly products by big name brands. Even CVS sells organic cotton balls and other sustainable products! Although I sometimes catch myself reverting back to old products for the sake of convenience or to save money, I will make a conscious effort to stay away from dangerous chemicals from now on. Imagine if everyone made this conscious choice— it would be a giant step towards a healthier future and a greener Earth.

Conclusion

It’s time to reevaluate the household products we choose to use and purchase. Mainstream household products from brand-names may seem authoritative and trustworthy, but the potential health and environmental hazards they pose are too great to ignore. Eco-friendly products are more gentle than their caustic counterparts, and while they may sometimes require more use, there are tons of alternatives to the corrosive chemicals we use around the house that work just as well if not better. Hydro-Lok by Rainguard is just one example of an eco-friendly product that actually works and meets strict environmental standards. Making the switch to eco-friendly and health-conscious products may be more expensive upfront, but our health and the environment are worth the investment. Take the first step towards better health and a greener Earth by making conscious choices and choosing eco-friendly products.