Despite photos of soaring, fresh mountain ranges, swaying natural herbs and colorful flowers on the packaging, laundry detergent is actually one of the most toxic products that most of us have within our homes. Almost all of the big name brands contain harmful chemicals that can cause mild symptoms such as skin irritation and allergic reactions to more serious conditions such as autism, infertility, asthma and cancer. Most people are not aware of the differences between detergents and soap and incorrectly believe that they are one and the same. However, detergents are made out of petrochemicals a group of chemicals derived from petroleum that are used to make fragrances, artificial colors and toxins such as nonylphenol ethoxylate.

Detergent manufacturers are not legally required to list all of the ingredients in their products, and seemingly innocent ingredients such as ‘fragrance’ could contain hundreds of toxic chemicals. Many households regularly expose their children, pets and other family members to a host of dangerous chemicals that are designed to linger in clothing and bed sheets to give that long-lasting “fresh” scent that many of us have come to associate with clean laundry.MORE: http://www.jbbardot.com/diy-homemade-laundry-soap-detergent-safe-for-your-clothes-pets-your-health-and-the-environment/