Do household cleaning products pose a risk in pregnancy?

- although some household cleansers contain solvents, there are many safe alternatives
- pregnant women should read labels carefully and not use products (such as some oven cleaners) whose labels state that they are toxic

- products that contain ammonia or chlorine are unlikely to harm an unborn baby, although their odors may trigger nausea in a pregnant woman
- pregnant woman should open windows and doors and wear rubber gloves when using these products
- she should never mix ammonia and chlorine products because the combination produces fumes that are dangerous for anyone

- pregnant woman who is worried about household cleansers or bothered by their odors can use safe, natural products instead
- eg. she can use baking soda as a powdered cleanser to scrub greasy areas, pots and pans, sinks, tubs and ovens
- she also can use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean many surfaces, such as countertops