Are Carpet Cleaning Chemicals Safe During Pregnancy?

Are you pregnant and asking yourself, are carpet cleaning chemicals safe during pregnancy? Worried and not aware of the dangers of cleaning chemicals? You’re not alone. Many pregnant women are unsure about which chemicals are safe to use during pregnancy or simply want to know how much exposure is too much.

What’s in the Box – Overview

In this post, we’ll take a look at the latest research on carpet cleaning chemicals and pregnancy, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to use them. We’ll also provide tips for safely cleaning your carpets while pregnant. Stay safe and healthy!

What’s Wrong with Those Colorful Cleaning Products?

Household cleaning products are made of many different chemicals, some of which are known to be toxic. Studies have shown that exposure to these chemicals can potentially lead to health risks such as cancer, reproductive problems, and endocrine disruption.

While the extent of the risks posed by household cleaning products is still being studied, it is clear that there is a potential for harm. As a result, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in household cleaning products and take steps to avoid exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.

Can I Use Cleaning Chemicals During Pregnancy?

There are a few things to consider when you’re pregnant and looking for cleaners. First, you want to make sure that the product is safe for you and your baby. Second, you want to choose a product that will be effective in cleaning your home. And third, you want to find an affordable product.

What Carpet Cleaning Chemicals to Avoid While Pregnant

Now, let’s have a look at what cleaning chemicals to avoid while pregnant.

Perchloroethylene (PCE)

• Pregnant women who are exposed to high levels of perchloroethylene (PCE) may be at risk of having a baby with birth defects.
• PCE is a toxic chemical that is often used in dry cleaning and garment manufacturing. It can also be found in some adhesives, paints, and spot removers.
• Studies have shown that exposure to PCE during pregnancy can harm the growing baby and cause problems with the development of the unborn child.
• Potential health risks include defects of the heart, brain, and other organs.
• Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should avoid exposure to PCE by avoiding contact with dry cleaning chemicals.
• Teflon is a polytetrafluoroethylene-based cleaner, it’s effect can harm both a pregnant woman and her unborn baby.

Naphthalene (PCE)

• Naphthalene is a toxic substance that is found in many house cleaning products.
• When inhaled, it can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
• Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to the effects of naphthalene, if it enters their bloodstreams, it can cause adverse effects on the developing fetus, and exposure to the chemical can lead to a high probability of miscarriage.
• To avoid the risks associated with naphthalene, pregnant women should avoid using products like moth repellent, air fresheners, deodorants, and cleaners. that contain the chemical.
• They should also be sure to open windows and doors while cleaning their homes, to allow for ventilation and avoid inhaling any toxic fumes.

Butoxyethanol

• Butoxyethanol is a toxic chemical that is commonly used in cleaning products, especially carpet cleaners.
• One study shows increased levels of toxic substances found in the urine of pregnant women who were exposed to Butoxyethanol.
• Another study found an increased risk of liver and kidney damage in animals exposed to the chemical.
• While more research is needed to confirm these findings, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid using products containing Butoxyethanol-based products entirely.

Hydrogen Peroxide

• When used in certain concentrations, it can cause birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid contact with hydrogen peroxide.
• Hydrogen peroxide can be harmful to babies. It can cause them to experience difficulty breathing, and it can also irritate their skin and eyes.
• Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical that can cause allergies in babies. It is important to be aware of the potential risks before using it around children.
• Citafresh, Odaban, and Grease Release Spotter are hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners you should be aware of.

Phthalates

• Phthalates have been linked with reproductive issues, including decreased male fertility, sperm quality, and early onset puberty.
• They may be carcinogenic and have been linked with breast cancer and other cancers.
• Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body’s natural hormone production.
• Prenatal exposure to phthalates has been linked with developmental issues, including ADHD and autism.
• Phthalates are found in many common household products, including carpets, flooring, and upholstery.

“Exposure to phthalates has been associated with endocrine disruption, especially the reduction of male reproductive hormones in humans, neurocognitive effects, asthma, and allergies. Prenatal exposure and exposure of children can cause more severe effects than the exposure of adults.”

Prenatal phthalate exposure and language development in toddlers from the Odense Child Cohort

How You Can Save Yourself from Chemical Harm During Pregnancy

Pregnant women are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These chemicals are found in a variety of household products, including carpet cleaners, paint strippers, and air fresheners. When inhaled, they can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea. VOCs have also been linked to birth defects and reproductive problems.

Precautions to Keep Yourself Safe from Harm

For pregnant women, the best way to avoid exposure to VOCs is to limit the use of chemical cleaning products. But if you are going to use one, it’s best practice to maintain the following protective measures.

• If you must use a product containing this chemical, be sure to wear protective gloves and a protective mask to protect yourself from exposure.
• Make sure vents and airflow obstacles are clear so that air can flow freely. You can use fans to circulate the air and keep it moving. This way, you can eradicate unpleasant odors from developing. So, open doors and windows to let fresh air in.
• Avoid contact with eyes and skin. If you come into contact with the product, immediately flush the affected area with water for 15 minutes.
• If swallowed, drink a glass of water and call a poison control center or doctor immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless told to do so by a medical professional.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after use. Make sure to scrub all over, front and back, for at least 20 seconds. Doing this will help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and germs. 

Choosing All-Natural, Safe Products, and Green Carpet Cleaning

Fortunately, there are several all-natural and safe cleaning products available on the market today. These products are generally safe to use and will not cause any harm to your health. In addition, many green carpet cleaning companies offer services that use safer methods and materials. By taking the time to choose a safe and environmentally friendly option, you can help protect your health and the environment.

Safe Cleaning Agents to Use During Pregnancy

1. Enzyme

Sunday is the day of rest, but for your carpets, it’s the day of reckoning. The weekly fight against dirt, dust, and grime comes to a head, and they need all the reinforcements they can get. Enzyme carpet cleaners are one of the best options out there – and they’re heat-activated to boot. Not only do they break down tough stains quickly, but they also leave your carpets smelling fresh and looking new.

2. Baking Soda

Pregnant women are often advised to avoid various chemicals and substances that could potentially harm the baby. This includes things like flame retardants, cleaning products with strong fumes, and even some medications, so it’s understandable if you’re wondering whether it’s safe to use baking soda during pregnancy. Baking soda is one of the most gentle and effective ingredients for cleaning carpets and upholstery. It’s also completely safe to use during pregnancy. In fact, baking soda is often used as a natural remedy for nausea and heartburn, two common complaints during pregnancy.

3. Soap

Don’t worry, using soap during pregnancy is perfectly safe. Just make sure you avoid any scented or antibacterial varieties – you don’t want to end up harming your unborn child, now do you?

4. Washing Soda

The chemical compound sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) is washing soda (also known as washing soda or bicarbonate of soda). It’s a naturally occurring substance derived from limestone and salt. Washing soda is in no way harmful to you or your developing child, so feel free to use it for all of your cleaning needs while pregnant! Just be sure to open a window, as the fumes can be rather overwhelming.

5. White Vinegar (Lemon Juice)

About 5-10 percent of vinegar is made up of acetic acid, with the remainder being water. Vinegar is totally safe for pregnant women to use. Its versatile use can be extended to an exciting level, you can easily use it as a window cleaner, oven cleaner, floor cleaner, and of course, carpet cleaner. It does not end there, it’s a natural disinfectant against different bacteria and also used to eradicate certain chemicals like pesticides.

Need Your Carpet to Be Cleaned During Your Pregnancy?

A clean environment at home is the first priority for a pregnant woman. There have been some studies linking congenital reproductive anomalies with exposure to certain chemicals, there is no evidence that chemicals used in carpet cleaners and other chemical-induced cleaners are safe. If your carpets need to be cleaned, you can always call professional carpet cleaners for support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now You Know!

If you haven’t read our post and still asking yourself, “Are Carpet Cleaning Chemicals Safe During Pregnancy?”, The Direct and short answer is NO. You can go back to using all of those harsh, toxic chemicals in your home now without having to worry about the safety of you and your unborn child.

Just kidding! It is always important to take precautions when it comes to chemical use, especially when you are pregnant.

So, If your pregnancy has you feeling a little more sensitive than usual, it might be time to switch to some all-natural and safe cleaning products.