Many of us associate the smell of cleaning products with freshness and a healthy home. But what if those same products are actually degrading the quality of the air you breathe every day? At Air Quality Consultants (AQC), we work to uncover hidden sources of indoor air pollution, and household cleaning products are among the most common—and often overlooked—culprits. Here’s what you need to know about how your cleaning routine may be affecting your indoor air quality and how to make safer choices.
What’s in Your Cleaning Products?
Household cleaners often contain a mix of chemicals designed to disinfect, deodorize, and polish. But many of these ingredients release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which evaporate into the air at room temperature. Common VOCs found in cleaning products include:
- Formaldehyde
- Ammonia
- Chlorine
- Benzene
- Ethylene glycol
These compounds are found in everything from all-purpose sprays to air fresheners, glass cleaners, and floor polishes. While some VOCs are relatively harmless in small doses, regular exposure in poorly ventilated environments can lead to cumulative health effects.
Health Effects of VOC Exposure
Short-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause:
- Headaches
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Dizziness or nausea
- Worsening asthma symptoms
Long-term exposure, especially in environments where ventilation is poor and chemical use is frequent, has been associated with more serious conditions, including chronic respiratory issues and, in some cases, an increased risk of cancer.
Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollution caused by cleaning products.
How Cleaning Products Affect Air Quality
Airborne Residue
Spray cleaners, in particular, release fine droplets into the air that can linger for hours. These particles may settle into carpets, upholstery, or HVAC systems and continue to recirculate through the home.
Off-Gassing
Some cleaning products—even those that aren’t actively in use—can off-gas VOCs while in storage. This is especially true of products kept in warm or poorly ventilated areas like closets, under sinks, or utility rooms.
Chemical Reactions
VOCs from cleaning products can also react with ozone (either from outdoor air or ozone-generating air purifiers) to form secondary pollutants like formaldehyde or ultrafine particles, both of which are harmful to human health.
How to Reduce Indoor Air Pollution from Cleaning Products
1. Choose Low-VOC or Fragrance-Free Products
Look for cleaners labeled “low-VOC,” “non-toxic,” or “fragrance-free.” These products are often made with fewer harsh chemicals and are better for indoor air. Keep in mind, “green” doesn’t always mean safe—check labels and research brands for transparency.
2. Ventilate While Cleaning
Open windows and use exhaust fans when cleaning, especially when using products with strong odors or chemical ingredients. Good ventilation helps reduce the concentration of pollutants in the air.
3. Skip the Aerosols
Avoid aerosol sprays, which release a fine mist that’s easy to inhale and harder to clear from indoor air. Opt for pump sprays or pourable products instead.
4. Limit Use of Air Fresheners
Air fresheners may mask odors, but they also emit a significant amount of VOCs. Use natural odor absorbers like baking soda or open a window to freshen up a room without chemicals.
5. Try DIY Alternatives
Simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and water can be used to make effective, non-toxic cleaning solutions for most household tasks. These alternatives clean well without polluting your air.
6. Store Products Safely
Keep chemical cleaners in tightly sealed containers, and store them in areas that are well-ventilated and away from common living spaces.
Clean Doesn't Have to Compromise Air Quality
Maintaining a clean home shouldn’t come at the cost of your indoor air quality. With more awareness and smarter product choices, you can keep your space both clean and healthy. At Air Quality Consultants, we’re here to help you identify potential pollutants in your home and find safer solutions that work for your lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule an air quality assessment or to learn more about creating a healthier home environment—starting with the air you breathe every day.
