Creating a home that is clean, nurturing, and kind to both people and the planet feels like a natural choice. Yet, on the path to well-being, it’s important to consider the hidden chemicals in everyday cleaning products—especially those that may disrupt our hormonal balance. Known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), they are more common than one might realise. Understanding their presence is the first step toward making thoughtful, informed decisions.

The Unseen Intruders: Hormone Disruptors in Cleaning Products

Hormone disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the body’s endocrine system, which regulates everything from metabolism to reproduction. Research has shown that even low levels of exposure to these chemicals can have profound effects on health, including developmental issues, reproductive challenges, and immune system disruptions.

In Europe, many harmful chemicals are regulated or banned under the EU’s REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) legislation and the CLP (Classification, Labelling, and Packaging) regulation. These regulations set high standards for product safety, ensuring that consumers are protected from harmful substances. While these rules apply to products sold within the EU, it’s worth noting that not all cleaning products globally adhere to the same rigorous standards. This makes it important to choose brands that prioritise safety, transparency, and quality—regardless of where they are made.

Bondi Wash products are crafted in Australia with the same commitment to safety and sustainability that EU regulations demand. We carefully avoid harmful chemicals, ensuring our formulations are free from common hormone disruptors such as:

• Phthalates: Often hidden under the term "fragrance," phthalates are not used in our products. We only use natural fragrances made with pure Australian native oils like Sydney peppermint and fragonia. 

• Triclosan: This antibacterial agent is not found in our formulations. Instead, we rely on the natural antimicrobial properties of essential oils.

• Parabens: Our products are completely paraben-free. We use alternative preservatives derived from plants or food-grade sources, ensuring both the safety and integrity.

• Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEs): We avoid APEs entirely, opting for biodegradable surfactants that are gentle on both people and the environment.

• Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Our formulations are free from PFAS, aligning with the EU’s ongoing efforts to restrict these persistent chemicals.

For those seeking to reduce exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals, here are some thoughtful steps:

• Choose Transparency: Look for brands that disclose all ingredients and avoid those that use vague terms like "fragrance" or "perfume."

• Embrace Simplicity: Natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can be just as effective as conventional cleaners, without the hidden risks.

• Prioritise Ventilation: Ensuring proper airflow when cleaning can minimise inhalation of any airborne chemicals.

The philosophy of creating a harmonious home—one that respects both the body and the earth—can guide toward better choices. By selecting products free from hormone-disrupting chemicals, we can transform our homes into sanctuaries of health and well-being.

As awareness grows about the impact of these chemicals, it becomes easier to make choices that honour both personal health and the environment. Creating a cleaner, healthier world begins at home—one thoughtful choice at a time.

References

• Darbre, P. D., Aljarrah, A., Miller, W. R., Coldham, N. G., Sauer, M. J., & Pope, G. S. (2004). Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours. Journal of Applied Toxicology, 24(1), 5-13.

• ECHA (2023). Restrictions under REACH. European Chemicals Agency. Retrieved from https://echa.europa.eu.

• EU (2003). Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH).

• EU (2016). Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) No 528/2012.

• Gore, A. C., Chappell, V. A., Fenton, S. E., Flaws, J. A., Nadal, A., Prins, G. S., ... & Zoeller, R. T. (2015). EDC-2: The Endocrine Society's second scientific statement on endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Endocrine Reviews, 36(6), E1-E150.

• SCCS (2021). Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety opinion on parabens. European Commission.

• Swan, S. H., Main, K. M., Liu, F., Stewart, S. L., Kruse, R. L., Calafat, A. M., ... & Teague, J. L. (2005). Decrease in anogenital distance among male infants with prenatal phthalate exposure. Environmental Health Perspectives, 113(8), 1056-1061.

• Weatherly, L. M., & Gosse, J. A. (2017). Triclosan exposure, transformation, and human health effects. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B, 20(8), 447-469.

• White, S. S., Fenton, S. E., & Hines, E. P. (2011). Endocrine disrupting properties of perfluorooctanoic acid. The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 127(1-2), 16-26.