Toxins to Avoid During Spring Cleaning

Written By Kurtis Simmons

Spring cleaning feels good-fresh space, open windows, a reset for the new season. But many conventional cleaning products can introduce hidden toxins into your home, affecting your air quality, hormones, and overall health.

At Naturopathic Medicine of Idaho, we often help patients reduce their toxic load as part of a root-cause approach to better energy, hormones, and immune function.

Here are some of the most common toxins to avoid during spring cleaning-and what to use instead.

1. Synthetic Fragrances

That “clean” smell in many products is often made from synthetic fragrance chemicals, which can include dozens (sometimes hundreds) of undisclosed ingredients.

These can contribute to:

  • Headaches

  • Hormone disruption

  • Respiratory irritation

  • Allergy symptoms

What to use instead:
Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” or naturally scented with essential oils (like lemon or lavender).

2. Harsh Disinfectants (Bleach & Ammonia)

Bleach and ammonia are commonly used for deep cleaning, but they can be very irritating to the lungs and skin, especially in enclosed spaces.

When mixed (even accidentally), they can create toxic fumes.

What to use instead:

  • Hydrogen peroxide

  • Vinegar + water solutions

  • Plant-based disinfectants

(For heavy-duty sanitizing, use these safely and sparingly with good ventilation.)

3. Aerosol Sprays

Air fresheners and aerosol cleaners release fine particles into the air that are easily inhaled.

These can:

  • Irritate airways

  • Worsen asthma or allergies

  • Add to indoor air pollution

What to use instead:

  • Open windows for fresh air

  • Use diffusers with essential oils

  • Choose pump sprays over aerosols

4. Antibacterial Cleaners with Triclosan

Some antibacterial products contain triclosan, a chemical that has been linked to hormone disruption and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.

What to use instead:
Simple soap and water is often just as effective for everyday cleaning.

5. Products with Phthalates & Parabens

These chemicals are often found in cleaning products, especially those with fragrances.

They are known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone balance.

What to use instead:
Look for labels that say:

  • “Phthalate-free”

  • “Paraben-free”

  • “Non-toxic” or “clean ingredients”

🌿 A Simpler, Safer Approach

You don’t need dozens of products to have a clean home. In fact, some of the most effective natural cleaners are also the simplest:

  • White vinegar

  • Baking soda

  • Lemon

  • Castile soap

These can handle most everyday cleaning tasks without adding unnecessary toxins to your environment.

🌸 Why It Matters for Your Health

Reducing your exposure to environmental toxins can support:

  • Hormone balance

  • Immune function

  • Respiratory health

  • Energy levels

Spring is the perfect time to not only clean your home-but also reduce what your body is exposed to daily.

📍 Supporting Your Health Naturally

At Naturopathic Medicine of Idaho, we take a comprehensive approach to health, including helping patients identify and reduce environmental triggers that may be impacting how they feel.

If you’re dealing with fatigue, hormone imbalance, allergies, or chronic symptoms, addressing your environment can be a powerful first step.

Kurtis Simmons
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Managing Seasonal Allergies