Disinfectant Sprays
Do you mysteriously cough or feel foggy after spraying a disinfectant? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone! Years ago, I made the conscious decision to toss out all the aerosol sprays in my home. Research studies have shown that the impact on your lungs after spraying in the air and on surfaces is the equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes a day. That is mind blowing to me. While studies have proven that they are highly effective on killing most germs and viruses, the downfall is that the volatile compounds contained in the ingredients are horrendous on your health.
The inhalation of said sprays can lead to central nervous system side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. The EPA states that at least 1/2 of the ingredients in a can of aerosol disinfectant spray has not been fully tested for possible health risks. Most contain phenol and benzalkonium chloride which could lead to allergic reactions, skin burns or even eye irritations. 1 major popular brand contains these ingredients. I implore you to pick a few things on this list and look up the major health risks. Looking at all these ingredients in just this 1 can astonished the heck out of me.
Ethanol, Alkyl, dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinate, water, butane, propane, ethanolamine, fragrance, MEA-borate, MIPA-borate, ethane, t-butyl alcohol, isopentane, pentane, acetone, isopropyl alcohol, methane, acetyl cedrene, delta-3 Carene, dihydromyrcenol, dipropylene glycol,, ethylene brassylate, linalyl acetate. These are all off 1 poplular brand with a fresh scent.
This is highly flammable, and on the back of can it also states to keep off skin, don’t use around pets, and let surfaces dry before coming in contact. What a scary thought of a loved one coming through the “mist” after you had just sprayed and they were unaware.
So now what do we do? I have comprised a list for you of all the things you can use that are healthy, and the last one may shock you.
white distilled vinegar: 1 cup of white distilled vinegar and 1/2 cup of water in a spray bottle, or bucket if wiping down multiple objects. You can absolutely add pure essential oils to this solution, but keep in mind you need a glass bottle.
Soap and water: yes, this old tried and true does the trick.
100% pure essential oils mixed with water. (use glass bottle) note * if you are unfamiliar with E.O. or aren’t sure if your current brand is pure, email me and I would be happy to help. There is also a link on my website to the oil company I trust. You can click on link and there is a plethora of information on the oils and how they are sourced, and what each oil can be used for health wise. There is no obligation to purchase. I have it linked for those who want to know more.
Rechargeable handheld nano sprayer with blue light. I found mine on amazon. I use essential oils with water in mine. It sprays a very fine mist that dries very quickly. Glass bottle ones were hard to find, so I’m going to use one of my glass bottles and thread it on. Or, you can simply your solution in a glass jar with a lid when you are not using. It’s great for mattresses, stuffed animals, couches, the car etc.
Sunlight: YES! A free way to sanitize. Florence Nightingale, a legend humanitarian observed that sunlight helped to heal wounded soldiers. Most hospitals back in the 1800-1900’s had some form of a solarium where patients could heal naturally. This treatment is called Heliotherapy. Before the pharmaceuticals took over this was a daily treatment that was used for strengthening immunity and boosting Vitamin D. So, place your objects in the sun for a few hours for maximum effectiveness against bacteria and germs. Pillows and mattresses up to 6 hours. If you have the space, go old school and put up a clothesline like our grandmother’s used to do.
In Gratitude and Wellness
Donna Gray
The Wholistic Hut