When was the last time you flipped over a cleaning product and read the ingredients label?
If you’re like most homeowners in Raleigh, NC, chances are you haven’t — and you’re not alone. But what if we told you that many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that can harm your health, your pets, and the environment?
At Ivory Pines, Raleigh’s trusted eco-friendly cleaning company, we believe clean homes shouldn’t come at a cost to your wellbeing. Let’s take a closer look at what’s really inside traditional cleaning products — and why it matters.
🚫 The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Everyday Cleaners
Many store-bought cleaners are filled with harsh, synthetic chemicals that are either not disclosed or cleverly hidden under generic terms like “fragrance.” Here are some of the biggest offenders:
1. Sulfates (SLS and SLES)
Commonly used as foaming agents in household cleaners and soaps.
- Why they’re harmful: Can strip away natural oils, trigger skin irritation, and aggravate asthma or allergies.
- What to look for:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
- Common products:
- All-purpose cleaners
- Dish soaps
- Bathroom foaming sprays
2. Phosphates
Used to soften water and break down dirt and grease.
- Why they’re harmful: Pollute waterways — especially dangerous for North Carolina rivers and lakes. They promote algae growth that chokes aquatic life.
- What to look for:
- Trisodium phosphate (TSP)
- Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP)
- Common products:
- Laundry detergents
- Dishwasher pods
- Heavy-duty degreasers
3. Phthalates
Often used to help scents “stick” in fragranced products.
- Why they’re harmful: Linked to hormone disruption, developmental issues in children, and reproductive toxicity.
- What to look for:
- Diethyl phthalate (DEP)
- Often hidden in the ingredient “fragrance” or “parfum”
- Common products:
- Air fresheners
- Scented multi-surface cleaners
- Fabric sprays
4. Parabens
Preservatives used to prolong shelf life.
- Why they’re harmful: Mimic estrogen in the body and are linked to hormone imbalances.
- What to look for:
- Methylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Common products:
- Spray cleaners
- Antibacterial agents
- Window cleaners
5. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Chemicals that evaporate into the air and affect indoor air quality.
- Why they’re harmful: Can cause headaches, nausea, fatigue, and long-term respiratory issues.
- What to look for:
- Formaldehyde
- Toluene
- Benzene
- Common products:
- Furniture polish
- Oven cleaners
- Carpet cleaners
6. Petroleum Solvents
Used to cut through grease and polish surfaces.
- Why they’re harmful: Toxic to breathe in and harmful to skin; many are also flammable.
- What to look for:
- Mineral spirits
- Petroleum distillates
- Common products:
- Wood polish
- Degreasers
- Stain removers
7. Synthetic Dyes and Fragrances
Added for color or scent appeal — with no cleaning benefits.
- Why they’re harmful: Often contain allergens and irritants. Fragrances can trigger asthma or migraines.
- What to look for:
- FD&C Blue 1, Yellow 5, etc.
- “Fragrance” or “parfum” (catch-all term that may hide dozens of chemicals)
- Common products:
- Color-tinted cleaners
- Bathroom sprays
- Glass cleaners
8. Endocrine Disruptors
Category of chemicals that interfere with the body’s hormone system.
- Why they’re harmful: Even low-level exposure can impact fertility, development, and immune function.
- What to look for:
- Parabens, phthalates, and certain VOCs all fall under this umbrella.
- Common products:
- Anything fragranced or preserved with synthetic chemicals
🌿 Why Raleigh Families Are Switching to Non-Toxic Cleaning
With more families in the Triangle area choosing to raise kids, care for aging parents, or welcome new pets into their homes, safety has become a top priority. Clean shouldn’t mean compromise.
Ivory Pines Cleaning uses biodegradable, plant-based products that are:
- Free from sulfates, phthalates, VOCs, and other harsh chemicals
- Safe for babies, pets, and people with respiratory sensitivities
- Gentle on surfaces and better for Raleigh’s local environment
We also believe in full transparency. You’ll never wonder what’s in our products — because we’ve already done the research for you.
🏡 What Makes Ivory Pines Different?
We’re not just another Raleigh cleaning company. We’re a premium eco-cleaning service built on trust and intention. Here’s what to expect when you book with us:
✅ Thoughtfully vetted staff and cleaning products
✅ Consistent and reliable service
✅ No contracts or hidden fees
✅ Personalized care and premium attention to detail
Whether you’re in North Hills, Brier Creek, Cary, or downtown Raleigh, we’re proud to serve families across Wake County with elevated, safe, and effective cleaning services.
💬 Let’s Talk: What’s Under Your Sink?
If your go-to cleaners still contain sulfates, parabens, or mystery ingredients, it might be time to reconsider. Ivory Pines is here to help you detox your home — one clean at a time.
👉 Ready to switch to a safer, healthier home cleaning experience in Raleigh? Book your eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning now or call/text (919) 910-0195 to request a free quote today.