A Guide to Choosing Cleaning Products During Pregnancy

Key Takeaways

• Many people look for cleaning products with ingredient transparency, lower-odor formulas, and certifications such as EPA Safer Choice.

• Fragrance-free products are often preferred during pregnancy, especially for those who become more sensitive to smells. Blueland’s Free & Clear Laundry Detergent Tablets are fragrance-free and EPA Safer Choice certified.

• Good cleaning habits—including ventilation, gloves, and following label directions—are just as important as product selection.

Pregnancy comes with a myriad of new questions, especially when it comes to the safety of your home. If you’ve ever reconsidered your cleaning products during pregnancy, you’re not alone.

Your physician knows you best, and there is no universal list of products that every pregnant person should use or avoid, but many healthcare professionals recommend minimizing unnecessary exposure to harsh fumes, following product directions to the letter, and choosing products with clear ingredient information.

What Should You Look for in Cleaning Products During Pregnancy?

When evaluating cleaning products during pregnancy, many people prioritize ingredient transparency, lower-odor formulas, and clear usage instructions. Look for: 

• Clearly disclosed ingredients

• Fragrance-free or lower-odor options

• EPA Safer Choice certification when available

• Clear usage directions

• Products designed for routine household cleaning

These factors can make it easier to compare options and make informed decisions.

Ingredients Many People Choose to Limit During Pregnancy

Many people become more mindful of product ingredients during pregnancy, particularly those that produce strong odors or require extra precautions during use.

Strong Fragrances

Pregnancy can increase sensitivity to smells, making heavily scented products uncomfortable for some individuals. As a result, many people choose fragrance-free or unscented cleaning products whenever possible.

Heavy-Duty Solvents and Cleaners

Industrial-strength cleaners, paint removers, and degreasers may contain solvents that produce strong fumes. These products are typically designed for specialized cleaning tasks rather than routine household use. If they become necessary, proper ventilation becomes especially important.

Disinfectants

Disinfectants play an important role when sanitization is necessary, but everyday cleaning and disinfecting are not always the same thing. Many households reserve stronger disinfectants for situations where they are specifically needed rather than using them for routine cleaning tasks.

How to Clean Safely During Pregnancy

Choosing cleaning products is only one part of the equation. Safe cleaning habits can be equally important.

1. Improve Ventilation

Open windows when possible and use exhaust fans while cleaning. Good airflow can help reduce odors and improve indoor air quality.

2. Follow Product Directions

Always use products according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using more product than recommended does not necessarily improve cleaning results.

3. Wear Gloves When Appropriate

Gloves can help reduce direct skin contact with cleaning products and may be especially helpful if you experience increased skin sensitivity during pregnancy.

4. Avoid Mixing Cleaning Products

Never mix cleaning products unless the manufacturer specifically instructs you to do so. Certain combinations can create potentially harmful chemical reactions.

5. Take Breaks When Needed

Cleaning can be physically demanding, especially later in pregnancy. Breaking larger projects into smaller tasks can make them more manageable.

How Blueland Products Fit Into a Cleaning Routine During Pregnancy

Blueland’s refillable cleaning systems are designed to reduce reliance on single-use plastic while delivering effective cleaning performance for everyday household tasks. Many of our products are EPA Safer Choice certified, recognizing formulations that prioritize both people and the planet without compromising cleaning performance.

As with any cleaning product, always follow label directions and consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about specific ingredients or product use during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use household cleaning products while pregnant?

In most cases, routine household cleaning can continue during pregnancy. Following product directions and maintaining good ventilation can help support safe cleaning practices.

Are fragrance-free cleaning products better during pregnancy?

Many people prefer fragrance-free products during pregnancy because sensitivity to smells can increase. Individual preferences and sensitivities vary.

What should I look for in cleaning products during pregnancy?

Many consumers look for ingredient transparency, lower-odor formulas, clear usage instructions, and certifications such as EPA Safer Choice when evaluating cleaning products.