Antibacterial cleaners and soaps. These contain a form of Dioxin, a notoriously dangerous ingredient. Since regular soap kills 99.4% of germs, save antibacterial products for VERY SPECIFIC needs (i.e. post surgical wound care). The FDA has recently issued a new warning about triclosan, a ingredient found in many antibacterial soaps and products.
Air fresheners. These coat your nasal passages to deaden your smelling nerves. Alternative: Baking soda or vinegar with lemon juice in small dishes absorbs odors. Coffee grounds also absorb odors. Fresh air, citrus peels, flowers, plants, herbs. Simmer water and cinnamon or other spices on stove.
Dry Dishwasher detergent. Number one cause of accidental child poisoning. Alternative: Buy phosphate and chlorine free detergent instead.
Oven cleaners. Corrosive, caustic, & carcinogenic. Alternative: Make a scrubbing paste of baking soda, salt, water.
Carpet and upholstery shampoo. Carcinogenic. Alternative: Use a mix of baking soda and water. Salt will take out wine or fruit stains. Club soda will remove lighter stains. Baking soda and cornstarch will deodorize.
Toilet, tub and tile cleaners. Corrosive, carcinogenic. Alternative: Remove toilet bowl stains with pure vinegar. Dilute with water to remove soap scum. Washing soda or borax is also effective on tiles.
(from http://www.greenlivingonline.com/article/six-household-chemicals-avoid)
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