We know that finding the right products for your home and family can be time-consuming—  long ingredient lists with all those tricky terms can get pretty overwhelming! That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. We've carefully curated our Cleaning Collection to include only products that are free from harmful ingredients, so you can feel confident knowing you're choosing safer options for both your health and the environment. Simple, right? We've got your back!

Ella Co. curated cleaning collections avoid harmful ingredients for a safer home.

1. Phthalates

Why to Avoid: Phthalates are chemicals commonly used to make fragrances last longer in cleaning products. These endocrine disruptors can mimic or block hormones like estrogen, which play a vital role in regulating metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Phthalates have been linked to developmental delays, reproductive issues, and early puberty in children.
Found in: Air fresheners, scented cleaning products (e.g., dish soaps, laundry detergents), and fabric softeners.

2. Triclosan

Why to Avoid: Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent used in many household cleaning products. It’s known to disrupt thyroid hormone function, which affects metabolism and development. Long-term exposure may contribute to antibiotic resistance and harm the microbiome.
Found in: Dish soaps, antibacterial hand soaps, surface disinfectants, and some laundry detergents.

3. Ammonia

Why to Avoid: Ammonia is a strong irritant often found in all-purpose and glass cleaners. It can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and eye damage, and may aggravate conditions like asthma. Prolonged exposure can lead to lung damage.
Found in: Glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners, and all-purpose cleaners.

4. Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)

Why to Avoid: Chlorine bleach is a powerful disinfectant, but it can release toxic fumes that irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Mixing bleach with other chemicals (like ammonia or acids) can create harmful byproducts, including chloroform and dioxins, which are harmful to both humans and the environment.
Found in: Disinfectants, laundry whiteners, and bathroom cleaners.

5. 2-Butoxyethanol (Butyl Cellosolve)

Why to Avoid: This solvent is commonly used in glass cleaners and surface cleaners. Prolonged exposure can cause dizziness, headaches, and liver or kidney damage. It can also irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
Found in: Glass cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, and degreasers.

6. Formaldehyde

Why to Avoid: Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can lead to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and headaches. Even low levels of exposure over time can cause significant harm, particularly for people with asthma or sensitivities.
Found in: Some disinfectants, air fresheners, and cleaning wipes.

7. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Why to Avoid: These surfactants are commonly used to create lather in cleaning products. They can irritate the skin and eyes, strip away natural oils, and cause dryness and irritation, particularly in people with sensitive skin.
Found in: Dish soaps, laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners, and personal care products.

8. Synthetic Fragrances

Why to Avoid: Synthetic fragrances are made from a blend of undisclosed chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions, asthma, headaches, and other respiratory issues. Many of these fragrances contain phthalates, which are linked to hormonal disruptions.
Found in: Air fresheners, cleaning sprays, laundry detergents, and scented candles.

9. Perchloroethylene (PERC)

Why to Avoid: Perchloroethylene is a solvent used in dry cleaning and carpet cleaners. It has been linked to liver and kidney damage and is classified as a probable carcinogen. Long-term exposure can also cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
Found in: Dry cleaning products, some carpet and upholstery cleaners.

10. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)

Why to Avoid: Quats are used as disinfectants in many cleaning products. They can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. Overuse may also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Found in: Disinfectants, fabric softeners, and cleaning wipes.

11. Phosphates

Why to Avoid: Phosphates are often used in detergents and cleaning products to improve their effectiveness. However, they are harmful to aquatic ecosystems, where they contribute to algal blooms that deplete oxygen in the water and harm marine life.
Found in: Dishwashing detergents and laundry detergents.

12. NPEs (Nonylphenol Ethoxylates)

Why to Avoid: NPEs are surfactants that disrupt the endocrine system and are toxic to aquatic life. These chemicals can accumulate in the environment and persist for a long time, causing ongoing pollution.
Found in: Laundry detergents, industrial cleaners, and degreasers.

13. Glycol Ethers

Why to Avoid: Glycol ethers are solvents used in many cleaning products. Prolonged exposure can irritate the skin and eyes and may lead to liver, kidney, and nervous system damage. They are also suspected reproductive toxins.
Found in: Glass cleaners, degreasers, and surface cleaners.

14. Petroleum Distillates

Why to Avoid: Derived from crude oil, petroleum distillates are used as solvents or thinners in some cleaners. They can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and long-term damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
Found in: Furniture polish, floor cleaners, and all-purpose cleaners.

15. Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEs)

Why to Avoid: APEs are surfactants that can mimic estrogen in the body, disrupting hormones. They can also be toxic to aquatic life, accumulating in the environment and causing damage to water ecosystems.
Found in: Detergents, cleaning products, and industrial cleaners.

Why Choose Products Free from Harmful Ingredients?

Switching to non-toxic cleaning products and avoiding harmful chemicals like those listed above is essential for both your health and the environment. Choosing safe, effective alternatives ensures that you’re not only protecting your family but also reducing your environmental footprint. Browse our curated collection of non-toxic cleaning products to find eco-friendly, phthalate-free, triclosan-free, and sustainable products that are as gentle on the earth as they are on your home.