Are Cleaning Products Safe For Pets?

I was in my early thirties when I had my moment of cleaning clarity. Soaking the countertop with some bleach-filled liquid and reading the back of the bottle to see what I needed to do to make sure I was safe, it occurred to me, “What about my cats who walk all over these surfaces and then lick their toe beans?” That’s when I started paying attention to the cleaning products I was using around my pets.

Our dogs and cats have a different relationship with household products than we do. I imagine most of us aren’t walking across the coffee table or licking a treat up off the tile. They’re rolling around on the floor more than we are. And I’d venture a guess that very few of us are grooming ourselves with our tongues. But our pets are. That means whatever their bodies come into contact with can be ingested.

They also tend to breathe more deeply and rapidly than those of us on two legs. They’re taking in airborne particles that may seem harmless but can be incredibly toxic to dogs and cats.

We’re going to give you the information you need for your own “moment of cleaning clarity,” breaking down the hazards found in many off-the-shelf and DIY cleaning products and giving you some safe alternatives. The first part may sound a little scary. But hang in there — we have solutions and even DIY options! You may even find that swapping out some of your old cleaners for safer versions will help your health as well.

Our deep house cleaning service is an extra thorough home cleaning that goes far beyond basic service. 

Ingredients in Household Cleaners That May Harm Your Pets

Ammonia

The chemical ammonia (also known as ammonium hydroxide) is a very unpleasant substance. If breathed, it can burn mucous membranes and make it hard to breathe. Ammonia burns the mucosal lining of the mouth, throat, and stomach when licked. It is useful for cleaning on its alone, but it is also included in many other products, such as degreasers, oven cleaners, window cleaners, carpet cleaners, countertop sprays, and drain cleaners. However, if you combine ammonia with bleach, dangerous consequences can ensue. Poisonous gas is produced when these two ingredients are combined.

As an aside, the crystalline odour of cat urine is also produced by ammonia. That’s why a lot of felines will avoid a litter box that hasn’t been cleaned in a while. The use of ammonia is being avoided.

In the time period covered by this article, ammonia was found in a wide variety of common household cleaning products, including Windex Glass Cleaner with Ammonia-D, numerous Lysol disinfection products, Downy Infusions, and Mop & Glo. It should also be noted that ammonia is frequently used both alone and in do-it-yourself cleaning solutions.

Chlorine (Bleach)

Chlorine is another major polluter. Sprays for the kitchen and bathroom, laundry and dish detergent, and even toilet bowl cleanser all include it. It’s also diluted with water and used as a general disinfectant around the house.

Consider the last time you used a product containing chlorine bleach. You have the doors and windows open so that there is fresh air inside. Also, you spend a good portion of your time with your shirt collar tucked up into your nose. It’s highly irritating to the respiratory system and should be avoided at all costs. You can only begin to fathom how taxing it must be for cats and dogs, with their deeper breathing, faster breathing rates, and more sensitive noses, compared to ours. Think about it: they’re licking their paws as they walk across these floors. They could be consuming water from the sink or toilet that you have just cleansed with a chlorine-based disinfectant. There’s yet more lethal combination to be wary of. Toxic chlorine gas was used to knock out Allied troops in the trenches by mixing chlorine bleach with vinegar.

Ammonia (or ammonium hydroxide) is a nasty one. It can burn mucus membranes and cause breathing problems if inhaled. When licked, ammonia can burn the inside of the mouth, throat, and stomach. Not only is it used on its own, but it’s also an ingredient in many products such as oven, window, carpet, and drain cleaner, countertop sprays, and degreasers. But things get scary if you mix ammonia with bleach. This dangerous combo creates a poisonous gas that can be deadly.

Side note: ammonia also creates that solid smell you get from cat urine. That’s why many cats avoid using a litter box that hasn’t been cleaned recently. They’re avoiding ammonia.

Windex Glass Cleaner with Ammonia-D, many Lysol disinfecting products, Downy Infusions, and Mop & Glo are just a few of many household cleaning products that contained ammonia at the time this article was written. And, of course, ammonia is often used on its own or in DIY cleaners

The Glycol Ethers

Many types of cleaning products, even “natural,” contain glycol ethers as a component. In addition to being connected to lung and kidney damage and anaemia, they have also been discovered to cause digestive, liver, and nerve damage, not to mention these effects have been observed in both animals and humans. You may see these listed as “nonionic surfactants” or “glycols” in the ingredients of many products.

Formaldehyde

Many common cleaning products, including soaps and even pet shampoo, contain formaldehyde, the same chemical used in embalming. Human bodies produce this gas on their own. High quantities in the air are the source of the problem. From what do the particles in the air originate? Products that use formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives give up these chemicals in minute levels. When we breathe them in, our pets do, too. This is a lot of information to take in on multiple levels.

One can find a long list of items containing formaldehyde by searching the Consumer Product Information Database. Among these are, tragically, numerous pet grooming products and many household cleansers. On the list, you’ll find popular brands like Palmolive, Gerber, and Softsoap. Add to it quaternion-15, dimethyldimethylhydantoin, dialkyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, and DMDM hydantoin, all of which release formaldehyde. Formaldehyde gas is impossible to completely avoid. We should, however, do everything we can to keep it to a minimum, both for the sake of our animals and for our own health.

A Cup of Benzalkonium Chloride

The substance at hand is an antimicrobial agent, the likes of which may be discovered in products as diverse as patio cleaners, disinfectants, and products designed to eliminate mould and mildew. If your pet licks or touches an area where Benzalkonium Chloride was used, it may experience tissue damage, gastrointestinal irritation, and other symptoms. To name just a few, the Consumer Product Information Database features brands including Lysol, Scrubbing Bubbles, Softsoap, and Purell.

Fragrance (Phthalates and essential oils) (Phthalates and essential oils)

The timing is right to emphasise that it is also natural. Certain organic substances are dangerous for our animal companions. Even though they are safe and healthful for me to use, some of my favourite essential oils are now off-limits in my house since they are harmful to my cats. If you want to use essential oils in your homemade cleaning solutions or find them as an ingredient in a product you buy, it’s smart to familiarise yourself with the potential risks associated with each oil.

It is possible that phthalates will not be listed as an ingredient in cleaning supplies. However, phthalates are commonly used as a solvent for perfumes and aromas, so keep that in mind if you come across either of those terms. Subtle yet potentially harmful, this molecule can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
A lot of people are worried about the effects that phthalates have on the human body. It’s worth repeating that if it’s bad for us, it’s usually worse for our dogs.

It’s possible that you won’t be able to completely avoid these components. However, if you strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s directions and provide adequate ventilation, you should be able to help your dog or cat. Keep your pets out of the house until everything is completely dry. Throw away any visible bowls of food or drink, as well as any toys or bedding. The cleaning goods section of the store is where you’ll want to look for “pet friendly” labels.

Cleaner Melbourne absolutely relies on your cleaning needs and goals, as all our work and services are only for the betterment of you and your family.

Produce Cleaning Products That Are Safe For Your Pets

In case you’re the crafty type, you could want to consider things like:

• White vinegar, which has been distilled, is an excellent germ killer. Moreover, its anti-fungal characteristics make it a desirable choice for dealing with mould.
• Baking soda has traditionally been used to neutralise unpleasant odours. Moreover, it has a slight abrasive quality, making it ideal for cleaning bathroom fixtures such as sinks, tubs, and showers. Baking soda and vinegar together can clear drains of greasy buildup that other methods have failed to clear.
• Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent, it’s true. However, unlike chlorine, it does not cause harm. Hydrogen peroxide decomposes into water and oxygen throughout its decomposition. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, thus it can be used to get rid of things like mould and unpleasant odours.
• If you want an antibacterial and antifungal agent that isn’t quite as strong as vinegar, try lemon juice. After squeezing its juice, a lemon wedge can be used to disinfect wooden surfaces.

Cleaning your home successfully is easy with these substances, which may be used in a variety of ways.

Cleaning Products That Are Suitable for Pets

It’s no secret that having pets can make it harder to maintain a spotless home. It may come as a surprise to learn that many household cleaning chemicals are harmful to pets like dogs and cats. Bleach, formaldehyde, isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, and phenols are found in many cleaners and are extremely toxic to animals if swallowed.

Fortunately, there are now pet-friendly options for virtually every household cleaning task, from laundry detergents and stain removers to carpet and surface cleaners. Listed here are ten goods that are safe for use around pets and your home.

All-Purpose Cleaner by Puracy

The biodegradable chemicals in Puracy Multi-Surface Cleaner are selected for their lack of toxicity to humans, animals, and the environment. As a hypoallergenic, chemical-free, and fume-free product, Puracy is ideal for those with respiratory issues. Bathroom surfaces, glass, and even the baby’s high chair are all safe to use Puracy on.

Laundry Detergent for the Seventh Generation

The plant-based cleansers and triple enzymes in Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent are aggressive on stains without being harsh on people, pets, or the environment. It has been proven in scientific trials to be hypoallergenic and effective at all temperatures without the use of colours, optical brighteners, or synthetic smells.

Laundry Detergent That Is Safe For Pets Is Common

Common Good is made with plant-based enzymes that safely digest starches and breakdown fats without harming people or animals. Since it lacks any optical brighteners, synthetic perfumes, or other potentially irritating additives, Common Good is also hypoallergenic.

Organic Carpet Cleaner by Nature’s Miracle

You certainly know the name Nature’s Miracle if you own dogs, but did you know they also manufacture a powerful carpet shampoo that is safe to use around your furry friends? This phosphate-free, low-foaming product utilises bio-enzymatic odor-locking technology to effectively clean and deodorise carpets, rugs, and upholstery.

Refreshing Cleaner for Textiles

The Clean + Green spray-on fabric cleaner effectively eliminates lingering odours and stubborn stains. An excellent solution for eliminating lingering odours from upholstery, curtains, cushions, and even sheets and blankets.

A Daily Multi-Surface Cleaner for a Clean Day

Cleans stubborn stains everywhere with a simple spray, thanks to a blend of garden-inspired aromas, essential oils, and cleaning chemicals sourced from plants. Non-toxic to pets and effective on all synthetic materials.

Using SpotAway’s Pet-Safe Glass Cleaner

SpotAway produces non-toxic, non-abrasive cleaners that are safe for the environment, your kids, and your pets, making them ideal for cleaning glass, plexiglass, chrome, stainless steel, mirrors, and more. There’s no chlorine bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals in here.

The PetSimplicity “Whizz Away” Stain & Odor Remover

Whizz Away from PetSimplicity is the solution to mishaps. This spray uses the enzymatic power of nature to eliminate odours and break down stains. Environmentally friendly and won’t harm your pet.

Stain and Odour Removal for Dogs Made With All-Natural Ingredients

The enzymatic bacteria and unique Fresh Bond technology in Simply Green’s non-toxic, biodegradable composition make short work of stains and odours, while also discouraging future soiling or marking. Cat litter boxes, dog kennels, tile, finished wood, and laminate flooring all benefit greatly from this kind of cleaning.

Vinegar with Baking Soda

If you’re on a strict budget but still want to clean like the old days, you can’t go wrong with baking soda and white vinegar. These two industry standards work together to form a cleaning combination that is effective and safe for use around pets in the kitchen and bathroom.

It’s possible that the article’s recommended cleaning solutions are safe for use in a household with dogs. Consumption and unapproved applications are not covered in this report. (Your pet destroys the product packaging, for instance.) Always with your pet’s vet before using any new product. If the product is accidentally consumed by the pet, immediate attention from a veterinarian or pet poison control centre is required.
With these items, we hope spring cleaning is less of a chore for you and your furry friends.

How to Handle the Situation if Your Pet Comes Into Contact With Chemicals Used for Housekeeping.

You can tell whether your pet has come into touch with cleaning supplies if you see any of the following symptoms:

• Damaged, ulcerated skin. This may be the case on their paws or, if they’ve ingested the product, in their mouth or on their tongue.
• Over the course of the year, I was sick or coughing more frequently than normal.
• Collapsing
• I feel like I don’t have quite as much strength as normal.
• Inability to keep food down.
• Experiencing drooling or excessive salivation.
• With their paws, they were rubbing their mouths and faces.

You need to contact your vet immediately; this is an urgent matter. Provide your veterinarian with as much background information as you can about your pet’s condition. This will aid in your pet receiving the best care possible. The packaging of the cleaning product your pet ingested or came into contact with should be brought to the vet for examination.

Don’t Let Your Pets Near Any Cleaning Supplies That Contain Poison.

Now is the time to sweep away the dust of winter and prepare your home for the coming of warmer weather. There are certain cleaning chemicals that should be avoided if you have dogs in the house.

Read our vets’ top tips on safe spring cleaning:

Cleaning supplies that are safe for pets should be used.

There is an abundance of pet-friendly cleaning solutions on the market, including shampoo for carpets, stain removers, and laundry detergent. As they contain less harmful chemicals, these pose less of a threat to your pet.

Many pet- and eco-friendly products exist for removing oil and dirt, such as:

• vinegar
• baking soda
• The acidic juice of a lemon.

Constantly Comply With Directions.

Bleach and other strong cleaning chemicals are typically used after being diluted with water. Following these directions to the letter will dilute the product and reduce the risk of injury to your pet.

After using a cleaning product, wipe off surfaces and mop floors with clean water. This removes any leftover product from surfaces and prevents your pet from coming into contact with potentially dangerous chemicals.

Put them where they can’t be accessed easily.

Please be mindful of where you store items when you’re done with them. Keep them in a secure location, out of your pet’s reach, just as you would with children. Get rid of the bleach and rinse off the mop buckets.

Consider installing a childproof lock on your cleaning supplies cabinet if you have a mischievous pet that has learned to open cupboard doors.

Avoid putting your pet in danger.

Animals should be kept out of the room while it is being cleaned, especially if the floors or surfaces will be mopped or wiped down. No one should enter the room until the paint has dried. This ensures that they won’t inadvertently come into contact with any cleaning solutions.

Put the lid on the toilet if you just flushed bleach down it to prevent your pet from drinking it. To prevent your pet from getting into the toilet paper or toilet paper holders, you should always keep the lid down or the toilet door locked.

One Last Piece of Advice and Some Useful Links

Now, a quick caveat. If your pet has a sensitive nose, you should always check to see that the scents you use aren’t harmful to it, even if they are natural. When possible, avoid wearing perfume. Keep in mind that citrous is not a favourite of cats. If you want your cat to use a certain area, like the litter box, but not become sick, you should avoid using citrous products there.

Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet has been exposed to a toxic substance, whether it was swallowed, inhaled, or touched. Be cautious rather than sorry. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms and indicators, which can range in severity depending on the product and the amount consumed:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite to complete inability to eat
• Drooling
• Causes skin and eye irritation
• Weakness
• Swelling of the abdomen
• Seizures
• Specialized signs of corrosion:
• blistering, red, raw skin
• Eye and mouth irritation; potential mouth burns and sores.
• A feeling of nausea and vomiting
• Pain
• Drooling and pawing at one’s face to an extreme degree
• Breathing problems
• Lethargy

As an added bonus, help is available at any time of day or night. The Pet Poison Hotline and Animal Poison Control Center are available 24/7 to help with any poisoning emergencies. The contact information for these hotlines is available here.

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Conclusion

The most important details are that ammonia can be toxic to dogs and cats, and that there are safe alternatives. Ammonia is a major polluter and should be avoided as it can burn mucus membranes and cause breathing problems if inhaled. It also creates a solid smell from cat urine, which is why many cats avoid using a litter box that hasn’t been cleaned recently. Formaldehyde, glycol ethers, quaternion-15, dimethyldimethylhydantoin, dialkyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, and DMDM hydantoin all contain formaldehyde, which can cause lung and kidney damage, anaemia, and digestive, liver, and nerve damage in both animals and humans. Phthalates can be harmful to pets, so it is important to familiarise yourself with the potential risks and adhere to manufacturer’s directions.

Household cleaning products that are safe for pets include white vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, and biodegradable chemicals such as Puracy Multi-Surface Cleaner. These products can be used in a variety of ways, from cleaning bathroom fixtures to disinfecting wooden surfaces. However, many household cleaning chemicals are harmful to pets, such as bleach, formaldehyde, isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, and phenols. Puracy is a hypoallergenic, chemical-free, and fume-free product, ideal for those with respiratory issues.

Content Summary

• I was in my early thirties when I had my moment of cleaning clarity.
• That’s when I started paying attention to the cleaning products I was using around my pets.
• Our dogs and cats have a different relationship with household products than we do.
• But our pets are.
• They also tend to breathe more deeply and rapidly than those of us on two legs.
• They’re taking in airborne particles that may seem harmless but can be incredibly toxic to dogs and cats.
• We’re going to give you the information you need for your own “moment of cleaning clarity,” breaking down the hazards found in many off-the-shelf and DIY cleaning products and giving you some safe alternatives.
• You may even find that swapping out some of your old cleaners for safer versions will help your health as well.
• Our deep house cleaning service is an extra thorough home cleaning that goes far beyond basic service.
• That’s why a lot of felines will avoid a litter box that hasn’t been cleaned in a while.
• The use of ammonia is being avoided.
• It should also be noted that ammonia is frequently used both alone and in do-it-yourself cleaning solutions.
• Chlorine (Bleach) Chlorine is another major polluter.
• It’s also diluted with water and used as a general disinfectant around the house.
• Consider the last time you used a product containing chlorine bleach.
• It’s highly irritating to the respiratory system and should be avoided at all costs.
• Toxic chlorine gas was used to knock out Allied troops in the trenches by mixing chlorine bleach with vinegar.
• And, of course, ammonia is often used on its own or in DIY cleaners The Glycol Ethers Many types of cleaning products, even “natural,” contain glycol ethers as a component.
• In addition to being connected to lung and kidney damage and anaemia, they have also been discovered to cause digestive, liver, and nerve damage, not to mention these effects have been observed in both animals and humans.
• Formaldehyde Many common cleaning products, including soaps and even pet shampoo, contain formaldehyde, the same chemical used in embalming.
• High quantities in the air are the source of the problem.
• Products that use formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives give up these chemicals in minute levels.
• Formaldehyde gas is impossible to completely avoid.
• Even though they are safe and healthful for me to use, some of my favourite essential oils are now off-limits in my house since they are harmful to my cats.
• If you want to use essential oils in your homemade cleaning solutions or find them as an ingredient in a product you buy, it’s smart to familiarise yourself with the potential risks associated with each oil.
• It is possible that phthalates will not be listed as an ingredient in cleaning supplies.
• However, if you strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s directions and provide adequate ventilation, you should be able to help your dog or cat.
• Keep your pets out of the house until everything is completely dry.
• The cleaning goods section of the store is where you’ll want to look for “pet friendly” labels.
• Baking soda and vinegar together can clear drains of greasy buildup that other methods have failed to clear.
• If you want an antibacterial and antifungal agent that isn’t quite as strong as vinegar, try lemon juice.
• Cleaning your home successfully is easy with these substances, which may be used in a variety of ways.
• It may come as a surprise to learn that many household cleaning chemicals are harmful to pets like dogs and cats.
• Fortunately, there are now pet-friendly options for virtually every household cleaning task, from laundry detergents and stain removers to carpet and surface cleaners.
• Listed here are ten goods that are safe for use around pets and your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Services