They’ve Been BANNED!

Many traditional cleaning products in the US are banned or their ingredients are banned in other countries. There are several cleaning products and chemicals that are legal in the U.S. but banned or restricted in other countries due to health and environmental concerns. Here are some examples, though not all inclusive:

1. Phosphates

• U.S. Status: Phosphates are regulated, but still allowed in some cleaning products, especially industrial and commercial detergents.

• Banned In: European Union (EU), China, Canada.

• Reason: Phosphates contribute to water pollution, leading to algal blooms that harm aquatic life and ecosystems. Many countries have banned or significantly restricted their use in cleaning products like laundry detergents and dishwasher soaps.

2. Triclosan

• U.S. Status: Banned in hand soaps and some personal care products, but still permitted in some cleaning supplies.

• Banned In: European Union.

• Reason: Triclosan is linked to antibiotic resistance and is harmful to aquatic ecosystems. The EU has banned it from a wide range of products due to these concerns.

3. Chlorinated Solvents (example Methylene Chloride)

• U.S. Status: Still used in some paint strippers and industrial cleaners.

• Banned In: European Union, Canada.

• Reason: Methylene chloride has been linked to cancer and poses a risk of acute toxicity when inhaled, leading to its ban in consumer products in many regions.

4. Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)

• U.S. Status: Still found in some industrial cleaners and detergents, though its use is declining.

• Banned In: European Union, Canada.

• Reason: NPEs are endocrine disruptors, affecting hormone systems in both humans and wildlife. The EU and Canada have placed significant restrictions on their use.

5. Formaldehyde

• U.S. Status: Limited in some products but still allowed in certain cleaning agents and disinfectants.

• Banned In: Japan, Sweden.

• Reason: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause respiratory issues. Some countries have banned its use in household cleaning products and other consumer goods.

6. Hydrofluoric Acid

• U.S. Status: Legal in some specialized cleaning products, particularly in industrial settings.

• Banned In: European Union.

• Reason: Hydrofluoric acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe chemical burns, even in small concentrations, leading to strict regulation or bans in many countries.

7. Perchloroethylene (PERC)

• U.S. Status: Still used in dry cleaning and some industrial degreasers.

• Banned In: European Union.

• Reason: Perchloroethylene is a suspected carcinogen and poses significant environmental risks, leading to its ban or heavy restriction in many countries.

These chemicals remain legal in the U.S. due to different regulatory standards, industry lobbying, and more lenient risk assessments compared to other regions. However, awareness of the risks associated with these substances is increasing, and many businesses and consumers are voluntarily opting for safer alternatives. It is unlikely that eco-friendly cleaning products will fully replace traditional products in the U.S. in the near future, but they could become much more prevalent. There are a few reasons why both types of products are likely to coexist:

1. Cost and Accessibility: Eco-friendly cleaning products tend to be more expensive than traditional ones in many areas and education on using bare alternatives like we’ve covered in prior blogs isn’t as widely known. We are trying to spread awareness! Some businesses and consumers may be reluctant to make the switch if it significantly impacts their budget, especially in industries that prioritize cost-efficiency, example: large corporate clients.

2. Performance: Some people believe that traditional cleaning products are more effective, especially for tough stains or industrial cleaning. While eco-friendly products have improved in recent years, there is still a perception gap about their efficacy in regards to commercial settings and specialty cleanings including crime scene cleaning. 

3. Consumer Preferences: Not all consumers prioritize sustainability. While eco-conscious buyers and businesses are increasing, many still prefer traditional products for various reasons, including habit and trust in established brands.

4. Regulatory Landscape: Although regulations may push for greener alternatives in certain industries (example healthcare or schools), widespread legal mandates to eliminate traditional cleaning products are not yet in place across the U.S.

That said, as eco-friendly options become more cost-effective and as consumers become more environmentally conscious, traditional products may gradually be phased out or relegated to specific use cases. Here at Dee’s Green Cleaning we will continue to provide an eco friendly experience for all of our commercial and residential clients!