The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released a study showing that even though injuries to children from household chemicals have decreased in recent years, they are still high.  The most recent data collected shows 11,964 injuries were sustained by 1-3 year olds from chemicals used in the home.

The biggest culprits are spray bottles. They pose a two-fold risk; children can easily unscrew the cap and drink from the bottle or spray themselves directly in the face.

While it’s wise to lock all chemical away from babies and toddlers, this is a perfect example of why we should not use toxic chemicals in our homes.

Your baby crawls on the floor you just mopped, pulls up on the table you just polished, eats off the dishes you just washed, and wears the clothes you just laundered.

Wouldn’t you feel better knowing your baby isn’t coming into contact with toxic chemicals as he innocently goes about every part of his day?

I would- and I do.  In fact, just last week my toddler grabbed the spray bottle I keep under the sink and before I could take it from him he sprayed himself in the face. It’s a good thing it was just vinegar and water.

There are countless books and blogs devoted to do-it-yourself natural cleaners, but really the 3 main ingredients you need are white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Grab a few spray bottles you can clearly label, some sponges, and work your magic-without a magic eraser.