Several cleaning products are currently available in the market, and various brands are working on making household and industrial cleaning possible with easy options. However, unbeknownst to many, these cleaning products are made of harsh chemicals, and prolonged exposure to them can lead to health issues that are not easily addressed or recognized. Therefore, it is important to be aware of ingredients used in cleaning products to ensure optimum health and environmental safety.

Respiratory risks caused by cleaning products
Several health risks are linked between cleaning products and one’s body, especially the lungs. Research carried out by the American Thoracic Society’s American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine points towards how cleaning products can reduce lung function, especially among women exposed to more spray cleaning chemicals than women not exposed to them. Evidence suggests that exposure to toxic chemicals in cleaning products creates more complications for people with asthma, COPD, or respiratory allergies.

Impact of chemicals in cleaning supplies on health
These products contain ingredients like volatile organic compounds or VOCs, which vaporize at room temperature and can irritate the eyes and throat, leading to headaches and other respiratory issues. Studies suggest that exposure to these cleaning chemicals can increase the risk of occupational asthma and other related lung disorders. Some products that may contain the harmful VOC substance are oven cleaners, chlorine bleach, air fresheners, dry cleaning chemicals, furniture and floor polish, rug, and upholstery cleaners, detergent, dishwashing liquid, and aerosol sprays, which can be used in some beauty products as well.

Tips for safer cleaning options
Cleaning is essential to maintain a neat and livable home space, so there is no way to avoid it; however, you can use better alternatives that do not cause harm to you, your kids, your pets, or the environment. Here are some tips to consider-

Switch over to some DIY cleaning options
It may seem like a lot of work, but when one prioritizes health, one can manage the extra work. Besides, there are some easy DIY recipes available online which take little time and effort. An easy way is to use a mixture of baking soda, Epsom salt, grated castile soap, washing soda, and some drops of your favorite essential oil to make a powdered detergent right at home. It’s easy to make, effective, and safe.

Avoid spray products
If you have to use some cleaning products, try avoiding using sprays. These kinds of products leave harmful chemicals in the air for you to inhale, which can irritate the throat and lungs gradually. Some people may also be allergic to fragrances, so avoid using products that may trigger an allergic reaction.

Ventilation
It is key to doing any kind of cleaning. Keeping the room ventilated when you are cleaning is extremely important. It ensures that the dust does not simply settle into your lungs and that the products you use do not remain in the air inside.

If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or face any other respiratory issues after using any cleaning product, immediately seek help from a healthcare professional and understand what to eliminate from your cleaning routine.