Many Malaysian families think a fresh aroma in the air and shiny floor indicate they have worked hard and done a good job. But what if there was a harmful effect to go along with that fresh scent? Instant cleanliness comes at a cost, because many common cleaning products include ingredients that can affect your body and the surroundings. Many Malaysians are starting to switch from traditional cleaning to eco cleaning service, because they value safety and wellbeing as well as a tidy house.
What Can Be Dangerous in a Typical Cleaning Cabinet
Many of us skip the step of checking the labels on cleaning products. People who use household cleaners usually encounter ammonia, sodium hydroxide and chlorine bleach as ingredients. They do a good job of cleaning, but they can also lead to breathing problems, burns, hormonal changes and many long-term illnesses with frequent use.
According to a study, spraying cleaning chemicals regularly for 20 years may harm the lungs in the same way that daily smoking a pack of cigarettes does. Brands and chemistry bought in Europe are often available in Malaysian supermarkets as well.
With Malaysia’s humid weather, poor ventilation inside during rain or in high buildings causes indoor pollutants to become even greater concerns. A lack of fresh air inside can cause VOCs to remain which is dangerous for both kids and the elderly and can lead to headaches, dizziness and respiratory issues.
New Perspectives on Cleaning to Consider For Malaysians
Being Inside Cramped Areas
Residents in KL apartments and terraced homes are typically cleaning inside limited spaces. Because the spaces are cleaned with harsh cleaners, there isn’t much airflow to safely release any harmful chemicals. Staying in close spaces for a long time can cause indoor air pollution which is a major issue people may not notice.
Cleaning Products Polluting Water
What we put down the drain affects much more than just our own health. Most synthetic cleaners have phosphates and surfactants that end up in waterways. Rivers in Malaysia and especially those in populated states, are contaminated to a great extent by household wastewater. Department of Environment Malaysia believes that chemicals and waste brought by households are largely responsible for the lower water quality in cities.
Safer Way to Clean: How an Eco Cleaning Service Fits
Rising Interest in Being Green
As we all try to be more concerned about our health and environment, interest in safer and friendly cleaning goods has increased. An eco cleaning business usually relies on plant-based ingredients and avoids chlorine, artificial scents and substances made from petroleum. Ordering these services means you can protect your health and the environment.
Helping Vulnerable Family Members
Infants, seniors and persons with asthma will probably see the biggest advantages. Using eco-friendly cleaners lowers the chances of having respiratory or allergic problems. Also, they tend to skip chemical sprays and air-borne cleaners—a potential health danger that is usually present in traditional cleaning.
Manage Costs Over Time
Even though you could pay more initially to hire an eco-friendly cleaner, this can result in less spending on health care and fewer time off due to sickness over time. Eco cleaners can be less damaging to your home furniture, floors and kitchen machines.
Steps Malaysian Households Can Take
Before looking for a professional, you can start doing these things:
Check for products that show every ingredient, not ones that hide them like “fragrance” or “surfactant.”
Always let in air or use fans when house cleaning to avoid building up too many volatile organic compounds.
Try making a mixture of vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice for general cleaning needs.
If you use microfiber cloths, you may be able to prevent relying on cleaning chemicals at all.
Conclusion
As we try to keep our houses clean, we should not neglect what we’re actually introducing to our air or sending through the pipes. Cleaning products used traditionally can harm our health and the heat and humidity increase indoor pollutants’ staying power. Choosing to use safer products or hiring an eco-friendly service protects your family, your house and the environment.