Why Professional Cleaners Should Avoid Ammonia and Choose Safer Alternatives

As professional cleaners, the products we use are more than tools—they reflect the care we provide to our clients, our teams, and the environment. Ammonia, a common cleaning agent, is often chosen for its ability to cut through grime and grease, particularly in glass and surface cleaners. But have you considered the risks it poses?

After years in the cleaning industry, I’ve come to realize that the products we choose impact not only the surfaces we clean but also the air we breathe, the ecosystems we touch, and the health of everyone we serve. This is why I’ve committed to avoiding ammonia in my cleaning practices—and I encourage you to do the same.

What Is Ammonia?

Ammonia (NH3) is a colorless gas with a pungent odor commonly found in household and industrial cleaning products. Its alkaline properties make it effective at dissolving grease, grime, and stains. However, this cleaning powerhouse comes with significant drawbacks for both health and the environment.

The Hidden Dangers of Ammonia

1. Health Risks for Cleaners

Professional cleaners are often exposed to chemicals for long hours, making them especially vulnerable to the effects of ammonia:

• Respiratory Irritation: Ammonia fumes can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs, causing coughing, sneezing, or even more severe conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia. Those with asthma or other respiratory conditions are particularly at risk.
• Skin Damage: Direct contact with ammonia can cause burns, irritation, or dermatitis, especially on sensitive skin.
• Eye Irritation: Ammonia fumes can sting and water the eyes, making it harder to work efficiently.

In poorly ventilated spaces, such as bathrooms or small offices, ammonia fumes can linger, turning these areas into hazardous zones.

2. Environmental Impact

Ammonia also harms the environment:

• Indoor Air Pollution: Ammonia contributes to poor indoor air quality, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, and respiratory issues for occupants.
• Ecosystem Disruption: Ammonia runoff into waterways or soil can cause nutrient imbalances, leading to harmful algal blooms and disrupting aquatic life.

As cleaners committed to sustainability, it’s crucial to recognize that what goes down the drain impacts the larger community.

The Professional Cleaner’s Responsibility

Choosing non-toxic products isn’t just about avoiding risks—it’s a statement about our values. By using safer alternatives, we demonstrate:

• Care for Client Safety: Protecting their indoor air quality and health.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Reducing environmental harm.
• Dedication to Cleaner Well-being: Prioritizing the safety of those who use these products daily.

These values don’t just attract loyal clients—they build trust and set us apart as industry leaders.

Why We Don’t Use Ammonia at Speed Cleaning

At Speed Cleaning, we’re committed to empowering professional cleaners with smarter, safer, and more efficient solutions. Our non-toxic cleaning solutions are thoughtfully crafted to deliver exceptional results while prioritizing safety, sustainability, and the health of both cleaners and their clients. Check out some of our products below!

1. Red Juice- All-Purpose Cleaner

This non-toxic powerhouse tackles grease, grime, and stains on multiple surfaces, leaving them safe for kids, pets, and everyone else.

2. Blue Juice- Glass Cleaner

Get streak-free glass without the harsh fumes. Blue Juice is perfect for windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces, providing a crystal-clear finish.

3. Pet Oops- Enzymatic Cleaner

Ideal for pet-related messes, this cleaner neutralizes odors and removes stains at their source—all while protecting indoor air quality.

4. Scum Bum- Soap Scum Remover

Soap scum doesn’t stand a chance against Scum Bum. It removes buildup from shower doors, tubs, and tiles, offering professional results without harmful chemicals.

And that’s not all! Discover our full range of non-toxic, professional-grade cleaning products designed to make your job easier, safer, and more effective. Explore our products today.

My Challenge to You

Take a moment to review the products in your cleaning kit. Are they aligned with the safety and sustainability standards you want to uphold?

Start small—replace one ammonia-based product with a non-toxic alternative and notice the difference it makes for your health, your clients, and the planet.

Remember, cleaning isn’t just a job; it’s a craft. The products we choose define the quality of our work and the legacy we leave behind. Let’s clean smarter, safer, and better together.

Safe cleaning !=D