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Loading...Wipe Out: Buying Safer Sponges
- Annie B. Bond
- June 3, 2008
- 12:00 pm
- 47 comments
Talk about an unwanted gift with purchase: Almost every sponge now sold in U.S. supermarkets is impregnated with a synthetic disinfectant—usually triclosan— that has been registered as a pesticide with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Not only should we be concerned about washing our dishes and counter tops with triclosan, but common disinfectants may contribute to drug resistant bacteria just like antibiotics.
Here’s what you can do:
- Buy only pure cellulose sponges by avoiding sponges in packages that use language such as “kills odors.”
- If your sponges exude the distinctive disinfectant smell, throw them out and search for a source of sponges made of pure cellulose.
- Sterilize sponges by boiling them in a pan of water for three to five minutes, or place them in a dish washing machine and wash with a load of dishes.
Read more: Home, Green Home Decor, Health & Safety, Non-Toxic Cleaning
By Annie B. Bond
Annie B. Bond
Annie is a renowned expert in non-toxic and green living. Named one of the top 20 environmental leaders by Body and Soul Magazine, Annie has authored four books, including "Home Enlightenment" (Rodale Press, 2005) and "Better Basics for the Home" (Three Rivers Press, 1999).
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47 comments
+ add your ownThanks
Great info, thank you..
try pop up cellulose sponges, boil them on occasion.
Cut a loofah in half and replace your plastic scrubber.
Both the cellulose and loofah are compost fodder when they no longer cut...er...scrub it.
Thanks Annie!
Thanks for the article.
I agree, Lavonne, sponges in the dishwasher does not sound safe. Cloths made of microfiber are washable at 95C. This effectively kills germs.
thanks
Thanks, Annie.
To: RAFFAELLA P. Nov 21, 2008 1:25 PM
Try adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to your steamer. Most of them have anti-bacterial/anti-microbial properties and they would make your area smell nice too.
Steam is great to wash things! But disinfectants are chemicals and can be very harmful to your pet, causing allergies and many other health issues. I try to use the healthier options: I use Arm & Hammer laundry detergent but use only white vinegar in my rinse cycle which is a great all natural disinfectant, leave my clothes soft and clean. I also use white vinegar to clean practically everything in my home from my hardwood floors to my counters, etc. Plus it is cheap! =) Shaklee makes many all natural products which are quite effective as well - can be ordered online. I think you will like the white vinegar as well - mix it with water. Smell disappears quickly! Doesn't linger in the clothes either. Hugs! from this cat mom.
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