Your Laundry Detergent Could Be Making You Sick and Harming Your Hormones

Traditional laundry detergents often contain a multitude of chemicals that can pose substantial risks to our health and the environment. This article delves into the scientific evidence supporting the benefits of using natural and chemical-free laundry detergents, highlighting their positive impact on health and sustainability.

Common Chemicals in Traditional Laundry Detergents That Hurt Your Health

1. Surfactants

Examples: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

• Purpose: Surfactants are used to remove dirt and grease from fabrics. They work by lowering the surface tension of water, allowing it to more effectively penetrate and clean fabrics.
• Health Risks: These chemicals can be irritating to the skin and eyes. Prolonged exposure to SLS and SLES can lead to dermatitis and other skin conditions. A study published in the Journal of Contact dermatitis has shown that SLS can cause significant irritation and skin damage.

2. Fragrances

Examples: Synthetic Fragrances containing Phthalates

• Purpose: Fragrances are added to detergents to provide a pleasant scent. However, synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates, which are used to make the scent last longer.
• Health Risks: Phthalates are linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive harm, and developmental issues. Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives highlights the potential health risks of phthalates, including their role in disrupting hormonal functions and contributing to various health problems.

3. Preservatives

Examples: Formaldehyde, Methylisothiazolinone

• Purpose: Preservatives are used to prevent microbial growth and extend the shelf life of detergents.
• Health Risks: These chemicals can cause allergic reactions and are potential carcinogens. Formaldehyde, for instance, is classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). American Cancer Society has linked formaldehyde exposure to an increased risk of cancer.

4. Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals

What are Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)?

EDCs are substances that can interfere with the hormonal systems in the body. This interference can cause reproductive, developmental, and metabolic issues.

Health Issues Linked to EDCs

• Reproductive Health: Research published in The Journal of endocrinology  has shown that exposure to EDCs can lead to problems like thyroid dysfunction and decreased fertility. Phthalates, commonly used in synthetic fragrances, can mimic or interfere with natural hormones, disrupting the endocrine system. This disruption can lead to reduced sperm quality, altered reproductive organ development, and a higher risk of hormone-related cancers.
  
• Developmental Problems: Nonylphenol ethoxylates break down into nonylphenol, a chemical known for its estrogen-like effects. Nonylphenol can accumulate in the environment and has been linked to reproductive and developmental issues in wildlife, suggesting similar risks for human health.
  
• Metabolic Disorders: In addition to reproductive and developmental issues, EDCs are associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. This study in Frontiers in endocrinology shows that these chemicals can disrupt normal metabolic functions, contributing to these chronic conditions.

5. Chemicals That Affect Respiratory Health

Understanding VOCs in Traditional Laundry Detergents

Traditional laundry detergents often contain synthetic fragrances that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs can significantly contribute to indoor air pollution and have adverse effects on respiratory health.

Health Risks Associated with VOCs

Respiratory Symptoms: A study published in the Preventive Medicine Reports found that VOCs emitted from fragranced laundry products link to respiratory symptoms such as asthma, bronchitis, and other breathing difficulties. VOCs can exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions and lead to the development of new respiratory issues, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

Indoor Air Pollution: VOCs contribute to poor indoor air quality, which can trigger respiratory problems. Continuous exposure to these compounds can lead to chronic respiratory conditions. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollution is often worse than outdoor air pollution, and VOCs from household products like laundry detergents are significant contributors.

6. Carcinogenic Chemicals

Understanding the Carcinogenic Chemicals in Traditional Detergents

Traditional laundry detergents often contain chemicals such as 1,4-dioxane and formaldehyde, both of which are known carcinogens. These substances pose significant health risks, highlighting the importance of switching to natural and chemical-free alternatives.

Health Risks Associated with Carcinogenic Chemicals

1,4-Dioxane:

1,4-dioxane is often found as a by-product in detergents and other cleaning products. This chemical has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in animal studies. Research has shown that exposure to 1,4-dioxane can lead to liver and kidney damage, and long-term exposure has been associated with cancer in animal models. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies 1,4-dioxane as a probable human carcinogen, emphasizing the potential dangers of this chemical in household products.

Formaldehyde:

Formaldehyde is used as a preservative in many traditional detergents. It is classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and increased cancer risk. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to formaldehyde can lead to cancers of the nose and throat, as well as other health complications.

7. Environmental Impact

While the primary focus is on human health, it is also important to consider the environmental impact of laundry detergents. Traditional detergents often contain non-biodegradable ingredients that accumulate in water bodies, harming aquatic life. Natural detergents, made from biodegradable and plant-based ingredients, reduce environmental pollution and preserve ecosystems.

Make the Switch

One of the most immediate and noticeable benefits of switching to natural and chemical-free laundry detergents is the significant reduction in skin irritation and allergic reactions. Traditional detergents frequently contain synthetic fragrances and preservatives, well-documented as common causes of contact dermatitis.

Perfect for Sensitive Skin + Your Health

In contrast, natural detergents use plant-based ingredients and essential oils, making them gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation. These detergents often exclude harsh chemicals such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and synthetic fragrances, reducing the risk of adverse skin reactions. By opting for natural alternatives, individuals with sensitive skin or allergies can experience a significant improvement in their skin health.

Moreover, natural detergents are free from preservatives like formaldehyde and methylisothiazolinone, which are potential allergens and irritants. 

Conclusion

Switching to natural and chemical-free laundry detergents presents an array of compelling health benefits. These benefits include significantly reduced skin irritation, a lower risk of endocrine disruption, improved respiratory health, and decreased exposure to carcinogens. Additionally, these detergents are environmentally friendly, promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

As awareness of the health risks associated with traditional detergents continues to grow, opting for natural alternatives becomes an essential step toward safeguarding both our health and the environment. Embracing these eco-friendly options not only protects our personal well-being but also contributes to the greater good of our planet, making this transition a crucial and impactful choice for a healthier future.

References

1. Geier, J et al. “Patch testing with the irritant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is useful in interpreting weak reactions to contact allergens as allergic or irritant.” Contact dermatitis vol. 48,2 (2003): 99-107. doi:10.1034/j.1600-0536.2003.480209.x
2. Dodson, Robin E et al. “Endocrine disruptors and asthma-associated chemicals in consumer products.” Environmental health perspectives vol. 120,7 (2012): 935-43. doi:10.1289/ehp.1104052
3. American Cancer Society. (2020). Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/chemicals/formaldehyde.html
4. Rattan, Saniya et al. “Exposure to endocrine disruptors during adulthood: consequences for female fertility.” The Journal of endocrinology vol. 233,3 (2017): R109-R129. doi:10.1530/JOE-17-0023
5. Bechi, Nicoletta et al. “Environmental levels of para-nonylphenol are able to affect cytokine secretion in human placenta.” Environmental health perspectives vol. 118,3 (2010): 427-31. doi:10.1289/ehp.0900882
6. Papalou, Olga et al. “Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals: An Occult Mediator of Metabolic Disease.” Frontiers in endocrinology vol. 10 112. 1 Mar. 2019, doi:10.3389/fendo.2019.00112
7. Steinemann, Anne. “Health and societal effects from exposure to fragranced consumer products.” Preventive medicine reports vol. 5 45-47. 14 Nov. 2016, doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2016.11.011
8. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2020). Volatile Organic Compounds’ Impact on Indoor Air Quality. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality
9. Doherty, Anne-Cooper, et al. “Contribution of Household and Personal Care Products to 1,4-Dioxane Contamination of Drinking Water.” Current Opinion in Environmental Science & Health, vol. 31, Feb. 2023, 100414. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coesh.2022.100414.
10. Wilbur S, Jones D, Risher JF, et al. Toxicological Profile for 1,4-Dioxane. Atlanta (GA): Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (US); 2012 Apr. 3, HEALTH EFFECTS.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK153671/