Are there endocrine disruptors in my cleaning products?

Substances that have been shown to harm people or wildlife by interfering with hormone function are not used in cleaning products, and would be banned from use by law.

EU has strict controls

More than ten years ago the EU produced a list of over 550 substances suggested by various groups to be investigated as being potential ‘endocrine disruptors’. Many of these are pesticides which have long since been banned. 

None of the substances for which there is evidence of ‘endocrine disruption’ in living organisms are used in your cleaning products.

Some reports describe products incorrectly

Sometimes, you may see statements naming chemicals such as phthalates, parabens, triclosan or alkylphenol ethoxylates for example, saying that they are “endocrine disruptors” and are used in cleaning products. 

These statements are untrue, either because the ingredient concerned is not shown to be an endocrine disruptor or because they are not used in UK cleaning products.

Contact the UKCPI on ukcpi@ukcpi.org or call 07843 199397.