Cleaning Chemicals to Avoid When Pregnant—and Pregnancy Safe Alternatives to Use Instead

Are Cleaning Products Safe During Pregnancy?

Some cleaning products are pregnancy safe, some aren't. Most everyday cleaning tasks won't put you or your baby at risk, but certain ingredients found in conventional cleaners have been linked to reproductive harm, developmental issues, and respiratory problems. Cleaning product manufacturers aren't required to disclose all their ingredients, which makes it harder to know exactly what you're being exposed to.

Once you know what to watch for, making safer swaps is pretty straightforward.

The "Dirty List": Cleaning Product Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

According to the American Pregnancy Association, there are several ingredients worth steering clear of during pregnancy. 

Phthalates and Synthetic Fragrances

Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that can cross the placental barrier and interfere with hormonal function. Research links prenatal phthalate exposure to reproductive issues in male children and impaired motor function. Phthalates are rarely listed on labels because they’re typically hidden under the umbrella term "fragrance." If a product lists fragrance without specifying its source, there's a good chance phthalates are involved.

Glycol Ethers

Frequently used in glass cleaners, all-purpose sprays, and oven cleaners, glycol ethers are potent solvents associated with miscarriage, birth defects, and reduced fertility. Look for ingredients like 2-butoxyethanol (EGBE) or methoxydiglycol (DEGME) on labels—and avoid them.

Aerosol Sprays

Multiple studies have found a correlation between aerosol cleaner use during pregnancy and increased asthma risk in children. The fine particles released by aerosols are small enough to stay airborne and enter your respiratory tract, carrying whatever chemicals they contain along for the ride. Opting for non-aerosol alternatives is the easiest way to avoid this increased risk.

Bleach

While occasional, well-ventilated bleach use may not pose significant risks, studies have linked regular exposure to chlorine-based disinfectants during pregnancy with increased risk of miscarriage and preterm birth. Given that safer alternatives exist, it's worth skipping bleach altogether.

Ammonia

Common in glass and bathroom cleaners, ammonia produces strong fumes that can irritate your respiratory system, which is already working overtime during pregnancy. Many pregnant women find their heightened sense of smell makes ammonia-based products unbearable anyway, so consider it your body's way of telling you this ingredient is a no-go.