Hey Doc- why does my toilet make me cough?

Hey Doc, every time I clean my toliet I start coughing and have to open the window and gets some air?

The holidays are wonderful time of year filled with lots of fun, food, and house guests. The not so fun part means lots & lots of cleaning to get ready for those visitors- and lots and lots of toilet cleaning.

Recently, I’ve had several patients who’ve triggered an asthma attack from the strong cleaning products they were using. They felt they had to use bleach and ammonium based products to get there bathrooms & kitchens really clean.

Many of the products in the stores, while getting rid of the dirt and making your home smell clean, are actually filling your home with indoor irritants that can trigger and exacerbate asthma. This is no fun!

Here are some “home made” cleaning products that you can use to avoid the potent products available in the drugstores. These recipes can be made with simple products like white vinegar, borax, dishwashing soap, and water.  You'll need several labeled spray bottles. 

These easy to make products will keep your home & smelling fresh while eliminating fumes and irritants that might trigger your asthma.

If you do have to use strong products, make sure the area is well ventilated, you use the recommended amount, and you take frequent breaks.

Enjoy & happy cleaning!

Glass and mirrors:

• 3 tablespoons of white vinegar + ¾ cup of water. Mix in a spray bottle

Countertops:

• 2-3 drops of dishwasher soap, 3 tablespoons of white vinegar. Mix with water in spray bottle.

 Disinfectant for Toilets:

• 1/4 baking soda + ½ cup white vinegar + 1 gallon of warm water

Or

• 1 can of coca cola

Mold and Mildew:

• 1 tablespoon baking soda + 2 tablespoons White vinegar + 1 quart of water.  Mix in a spray bottle.

Floors:

• 1 cup white vinegar + 1 gallon hot water mixed in a bucket