The strong scents of cleaning products may seem harmless, but prolonged exposure can pose health risks. This article will cover how cleaning products affect your respiratory system, your skin and your central nervous system and which chemicals to watch out for. You’ll also get tips on safer cleaning alternatives and usage guidelines to minimize exposure.
Quick Summary
• Pleasant smells in cleaning products like air fresheners and rug and upholstery cleaners can hide the nasty chemicals so consumers assume they are safe.
• Breathing in VOCs and other toxic substances from cleaning products can cause respiratory, neurological and skin problems.
• Choosing safer cleaning options, reading labels and going fragrance free and eco friendly can minimize exposure to toxic chemicals.
Health Risks from Breathing in Cleaning Products
Cleaning products release harmful substances including VOCs which can cause long term respiratory problems and other health issues.
Respiratory Problems
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products can cause asthma and other respiratory problems [1].
Chlorine bleach releases toxic fumes when mixed with acidic cleaners. Mixing chlorine bleach with ammonia releases toxic gases that can cause severe respiratory problems.
Aerosol cleaning products can worsen indoor air quality and not just affect people with pre-existing conditions but also trigger new respiratory problems in healthy individuals.
Some household cleaners can also trigger allergies and worsen existing respiratory conditions. Poor indoor air quality can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other health issues so choosing the right cleaning products is crucial to a healthy home and the environment.
Skin and Eye Irritation
Some cleaning products can cause eye irritation and skin rashes upon contact or inhalation. Formaldehyde in cleaning products can cause coughing, wheezing and eye, nose and throat irritation [2]. Direct contact with some cleaners can also cause skin burns or sensitivities.
Central Nervous System Effects
Long term exposure to VOCs can harm the central nervous system. Breathing in VOCs can cause headaches and dizziness, repeated exposure can cause cognitive problems and nerve function impairment. Breathing in toxic fumes from cleaning chemicals can also cause neurological symptoms like memory loss and confusion [3].
Harmful Chemicals in Cleaning Products
Some cleaning products have these toxic chemicals that can cause serious human health problems over time.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are toxic chemicals that evaporate at room temperature. Exposure to VOCs in cleaning products has been linked to chronic respiratory problems and asthma attacks. VOCs can also contribute to indoor air pollution and cause headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Knowing VOCs in cleaning products is key to household health safety.
Chlorine Bleach
Chlorine bleach releases gases that irritate the nose, throat and lungs. Exposure to bleach fumes can cause respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Mixing chlorine bleach with chemicals like ammonia produces toxic gases that increase health risks. Make sure to ventilate well and don’t mix cleaning chemicals when using bleach to minimize the risks.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a flammable gas found in household products, personal care products and manufactured wood. Exposure can cause burning sensation in the eyes, nose or throat, watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, skin irritation and nausea. Long term exposure to formaldehyde can also increase the risk of cancer and irritate respiratory pathways.
Safer cleaning products
Choosing safer cleaning products can reduce exposure to toxins.
Reading Labels
Reading labels on cleaning products can help you identify harmful chemicals and ingredients. Choosing fragrance free and irritant free products is safer. Understanding ingredient lists can help you avoid toxic substances. Labels often have QR codes that you can scan and get links to ingredient information.
Eco-Friendly Certifications
Look for EPA’s Safer Choice certification to ensure cleaning products meet strict safety and environmental standards. Eco-friendly certifications help you identify safer products for health and the environment.
In addition to EPA certification, look for other certifications like Green Seal which means the product is safe and eco-friendly. Using certified products is good for your health and the planet.
Fragrance Free Options
Go fragrance free or unscented to minimize exposure to synthetic fragrances and health risks from inhaling cleaning product fumes. Going fragrance free helps reduce VOCs in the indoor environment.
DIY Safer Cleaning Options
Making your own cleaning products at home means no harsh chemicals and non-toxic alternatives to traditional cleaning products.
You can make a simple all purpose cleaner by mixing vinegar, essential oils and castile soap with distilled water.
Vinegar kills germs and deodorizes surfaces so it’s a great cleaning agent. For tough stains a paste of baking soda and vinegar can be left to sit before scrubbing for better results.
Usage and Ventilation Tips
Here are some tips to follow when using cleaning chemicals:
• Use cleaning products in well ventilated areas by opening windows or using exhaust fans to let in fresh air.
• Don’t use them in small enclosed spaces.
• To reduce exposure to fumes, read labels, ventilate well and choose products with fewer irritants.
• Prioritize safety when using cleaning products to avoid exposure.
FAQs
1. Are Natural Cleaning Products Safer To Smell?
While natural cleaning products are often less harmful, they can still cause irritation if they contain potent essential oils or other strong ingredients. It’s important to use them sparingly and in good ventilation
2. How Do I Choose Safer Cleaning Products?
To choose safer cleaning products read labels to identify harmful chemicals, look for eco-friendly certifications like EPA’s Safer Choice or Green Seal and go fragrance free. These simple choices can make your home safer.
3. Are DIY Alternatives Effective?
DIY alternatives are effective, using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda to get the job done while minimizing exposure to harsh chemicals. They’re a safe and practical way to keep your environment clean.
Did you enjoy this article? See Wynbert’s homepage for more information on how to keep your household pristine clean.
References
2. https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/MMG/MMGDetails.aspx?mmgid=216&toxid=39#
3. https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/volatile-organic-compounds#
