Swap of the Week #2: Cleaning Products

 During week two we will be discussing a safer cleaning option.

    Since I am new to the toxin free journey, I was a bit skeptical of this one.  A friend of mine had tried a  new to her product and had great things to say about it, so I had to check it out. Boy am I glad I did!!  Force of Nature Multipurpose Cleaner has completely eliminated a ton of cleaning products from our home.  

    First lets get in to the different type of products it's replaced for us.  No more bleach, window cleaner, floor cleaner, degreasers, odor removers, or bathroom cleaners.  This means no more Windex, Febreeze, Resolve carpet cleaner, Scrubbing Bubbles, 409, and so on!!  It's safe for all surfaces even stone and won't degrade grout or rubber seals like just plain vinegar can over time.  

    I use it to clean counters, mirrors, mop floors, sippy cups, high chair, and tv trays.  I have also used it to kill odors in trash cans, diaper pails, and smelly stinky shoes.  I literally use this miracle cleaner for everything, even the kids some days.  Yep, I said it!!!  I have sprayed the cleaner on a towel and wiped down dirty sticky hands. I didn't even freak out like I would have with other products, when big brother decided to hose down little brother with the bottle when I had my back turned! (Kids are fun!!!)

    Force of Nature is completely safe for kids and pets because there is absolutely no toxins or harmful chemicals in it what so ever.  Each activator has salt, water, and vinegar in it.  Here's how it works: fill up the electrolyzer with water, add the activator, and push the start button.  Electricity is responsible for breaking up the molecules and creating two new products.  These two products are Sodium hydroxide, which is responsible for cleaning up those sticky messes, soap scrub, and grime, and Hypochlorus acid, which is responsible for deodorizing and disinfecting. The vinegar is responsible for lowering the PH and balancing the solutions out just right.  The correct amounts need to be measured, hence the activator capsules, or bleach could be created, it may not be as effective, or it could have shorter shelf life.

   

At 99.9% effective, its even more powerful than bleach!  The EPA has certified Force of Nature to be used in hospitals, medical, dental, veterinary, daycares, schools, offices, and other facilities because it is effective and safe.  It's been 3rd party tested and protects against several viruses and bacteria such as Staph, MRSA, Norovirus, Samonella, and Listeria to just name a few.

    The starter kit comes with the electrolyzer, a reusable spray bottle, and activator capsules.  Each bottle made is only effective for a two week span, so any unused portions need to be thrown out.  I have no had to throw any out, nor have I even made it close to two weeks without having to make more because there are so many uses for it!  The company does have a 30 day money back guarantee if you are not satisfied.  I haven't met anyone that uses it and doesn't love it though.  

    I will admit I was surprised my first time using it because it does have a slight bleach like smell. It was then that I looked into the science behind how and why it works.  The Hypochlorus acid is in the same family as bleach, but without the harmful chemical compound. I like that I am reducing plastic waste and waste in general, all while saving money too.  It only cost about nine cents per ounce to use this cleaner versus up to fifty three cents an ounce for some of the other brand cleaners. `    

    You can save even more money on their discounted bundles, promo codes, and referral link.  They have a range of starter kits and bundles to choose from for just about any budget.  The website usually has a code to save 30% off and get free shipping. The current code is FORCE, but if that doesn't work you can usually find one online or their actual site.  When you create an account with them you can sign up for subscriptions or just purchase as needed, but you get a referral link.  This link can be sent to friends and you earn free product if purchased through your link!!

    So let's recap!  You are switching to a safer cleaning product that is toxin free. You are eliminating a bunch of different products for one. You are eliminating plastic waste by using the reusable spray bottle.  You are saving money.  Money back guarantee.  What are you waiting for?  Go check Force of Nature out now!!!

    To see my full review on this product, watch here.  Stay tuned next week for more safe swaps!

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Ingredient to Avoid #1: Phenoxyethanol

 

    European Standards are hundreds times better at banishing ingredients than the United States.  In Europe over 1,300 ingredients are banned, but in the United States only about 30.  Crunchi Corporate has actually even more strict requirements in order to offer a toxin free skincare and cosmetics brand.  They even have their own banished list on top of the European Standards.  

    There is no regulation on the term toxin free, but Crunchi defines it as follows: "a product is considered toxin free if it does not contain any ingredients known to cause harm or health hazard based on the available ingredient data and research.  Each ingredient has been carefully selected and our products are free of all harmful ingredients documented in our banished ingredient list."

    

    Each week I will inform you of one of those ingredients and why Crunchi has banned its use.

    Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative in most personal care products such as skincare and cosmetics.  It is the product of highly corrosive phenol and a known carcinogenic ethylene oxide.  A member of the glycol ether family, Phenoxyethanol, may contain residuals of these chemicals resulting in possible allergic reactions.  The American Society of Contact Dermatitis lists this ingredient as a core allergen even with as little as less than one percent present.

    The goal is cleaner, healthier skincare and cosmetics free of harsh chemicals and known allergens.  Phenoxyethanol doesn't make the cut with it being considered a core allergen at such low levels.  I was using several skincare and pampering products that utilized this ingredient as the preservative.  I have since discontinued use of said products because my personal goal is to transition to a toxin free lifestyle.

    

    The ingredient does meet European Standards, so if low tox is your goal then this ingredient may not be a huge deal for you to avoid. Just make sure you are looking at your labels and you are aware if you start having any breakouts or allergic reactions, this ingredient could be the culprit.

    Let me know in the comments below if you found this ingredient on any of your trusted labels. And don't forget next week we will be covering another ingredient to avoid!