List of cleaning products to avoid while pregnant

Cleaning while pregnant isn't off-limits.

List of chemicals to avoid during pregnancy

Most household cleaning products are safe, though a few could increase the risk of health problems in your baby if you use them in large amounts or for a long period of time.

Dishwasher and laundry detergents, window cleaners, and all-purpose cleaners are usually safe to use during pregnancy.

But heavy-duty cleaners like undiluted bleach, tile cleaner, and oven cleaner, as well as air fresheners, can release toxic substances into the air. Inhaling such cleaning products while pregnant could allow these chemicals to cross the placenta and reach your growing baby.

In a few studies, the children of women who often used cleaning sprays – including those containing bleach and other disinfectants – and air fresheners during their pregnancy were more likely to wheeze, have lung problems, and got more frequent lower respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that you avoid

are cleaning chemicals safe during pregnancy

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