Many cleaning supplies may contain ingredients associated with health issues.

 Many cleaning supplies may contain ingredients associated with health issues.

When you tackle the task of cleaning your home, you aim for a safer and healthier space for you and your loved ones. However, some of the products you use might pose health risks.

 

"Many people assume that if a product is available in stores, it's safe or they know exactly what they're getting," says Tasha Stoiber, a senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit that researches safer products. "That’s simply not true."

 

According to the EWG, over 2,000 cleaning supplies on the American market may contain substances linked to health issues such as asthma, chemical burns, and cancer.

 

Identifying safe products can be challenging, especially with the rise of “greenwashing,” where companies use misleading marketing to appear environmentally friendly, notes Jennie Romer, deputy assistant administrator for pollution prevention at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

 

"People are becoming more aware of how these products can affect our health," Stoiber explains. "In the U.S., transparency is severely lacking."

 

Brian Sansoni, senior vice president of communications at the American Cleaning Institute, emphasizes the importance of effective cleaning for disease prevention. "Proper use of cleaning products is vital for public health and quality of life in various settings," he says, especially in light of the pandemic.

 

 Understanding the Chemicals in Your Cleaners

 

Cleaning products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful gases emitted from liquids or solids. "These can cause issues like irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system," explains Dr. Natalie Johnson, an associate professor at Texas A&M University.

 

The extent of these health effects depends on exposure frequency and concentration, with VOC levels typically higher indoors. Unfortunately, the list of potentially harmful chemicals is extensive, making it difficult to assess risk from ingredient labels.

 

Fortunately, resources like the EPA’s Safer Choice label can guide you toward safer products that don’t contain harmful chemicals. For example, Romer’s husband recently used the Safer Choice database to find compliant laundry detergents while shopping.

 

Manufacturers have also worked to reduce VOC emissions in consumer products over the last three decades, largely in response to regulatory limits.

 

 It’s Not Just About What You Use—It’s How You Use It

 

Improper use of cleaning products can also pose risks. For example, mixing bleach with ammonia-containing products can create toxic fumes, warns Romer. "Always read and follow product label instructions," she advises.

 

Frequency of use amplifies the risks associated with harmful chemicals. "In toxicology, we say it's the dose that makes the poison," Johnson adds.

 

Particular attention should be given to vulnerable populations, such as pregnant individuals, children, and those with asthma. "Children aren't just small adults; their developing bodies are more susceptible to air pollutants," Johnson notes.

 

 Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

 

Completely overhauling your cleaning supply cabinet may not be feasible or environmentally friendly, Stoiber suggests. "It's impossible to avoid all exposures through shopping alone, but being mindful can make a difference."

 

Start by taking inventory of your current products; you might find some that meet EPA or EWG standards. Gradually replace them with recommended alternatives as you use them up. Many effective cleaners can also be made from everyday kitchen items like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

 

To further reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, focus on maintaining cleanliness. "Regular vacuuming and dusting are essential," Stoiber advises. Chemicals can linger in dust, and when stirred up, they can be inhaled or transferred to your hands and food.

 

By keeping surfaces clean and reducing dust accumulation, you can limit your exposure to potentially harmful substances in your home.