Home Chemicals

Household Cleaners

About Home Chemicals

A toxic substance means any chemical or mixture that may be harmful to the environment and to human health if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through the skin. There are naturally occurring toxins, poisonous substances coming from living organisms, found in certain plants such as poinsettias and even some wild mushrooms and berries.

Even personal medications can be toxic to the environment, and proper disposal of pharmaceuticals is a growing concern in across the nation.

Proper Handling of Home Chemicals

The City of Irving facilitates the proper handling of home chemicals in two ways:

Proper Disposal of Medication

Medicines play an important role in treating many conditions and diseases, but when they are no longer needed, it’s important to dispose of them properly to avoid harm to others. Learn how you can help keep your community and your neighbors safe at the Pharmaceuticals Disposal page.

Alternatives to Home Chemicals

There are alternatives to home cleaners, which do not have chemicals. Here are some simple recipes, which can be made at home.

A word of caution on making homemade cleaners: Never mix bleach with any type of acid such as ammonia or vinegar. It will cause toxic fumes that are very dangerous.

  1. Window Cleaner
  2. Cleaning with Vinegar
  3. More Vinegar Uses
  4. Soft Scrubbing-Type Cleaners
  5. Rug Deodorizer
  6. Cleaning with Baking Soda
  7. Furniture Polish
  8. All-Purpose Cleaner

Alvin Corn Homemade Glass Cleaner:

1/4 cup rubbing alcohol

1/4 cup white vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 cup warm water

Combine everything in a new spray bottle, and shake well. Note: Always mix rubbing alcohol in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling vapors.

(Source: Crunchy Betty)

Recipe 2:

Mix equal parts of water with vinegar. Pour into a spray bottle.

Recipe 3:

½ teaspoon of mild dish detergent

3 tablespoons of vinegar

2 cups of water

Pour into a spray bottle.