Health Risks of Improper Use of Cleaning Supplies

Some cleaning chemicals can be hazardous, causing problems ranging from skin rashes, burns, coughing to more serious illnesses. People can encounter hazardous chemicals by handling them directly or indirectly through vapor and residue. Exposure to these hazardous chemicals can have numerous side effects[2] or result in more dangerous, even life-threatening problems if used or stored improperly. Some of the most commonly handled hazardous chemicals include:

• Window and Commercial Kitchen Cleaners with 2-Butoxyethanol: Commonly found in industrial “all-in-one” and window cleaners, 2-butoxyethanol[1] acts as a relatively non-volatile solvent. As a result, the chemical can enter a person’s body through skin contact or direct inhalation. Exposure at a high level can lead to kidney and liver damage[2]. Inhalation at lower levels typically irritates the throat and lungs. Chronic exposure has been correlated with neurodegenerative disorders[3].
• Glass Cleaners and Sink Cleaners with Ammonia: Ammonia is one of the most produced industrial chemical[4] in the U.S. . At room temperature, it takes a gaseous form, but is easily compressed into a liquid. Exposure typically happens through inhalation, where it can cause respiratory distress, burns, and in extreme cases, lead to respiratory failure. In addition, ammonia triggers olfactory adaptation, making it harder to smell it the longer a person is exposed to it. At lower concentrations, ammonia can irritate the body and can cause serious injury to the skin and eyes at higher concentrations.
• Cleaners and Mildew Removers with Chlorine: Many disinfectants and cleaners contain chlorine[5]. Like ammonia, chlorine is gaseous at room temperature, so exposure typically occurs through inhalation. Light exposure may result in irritation to the eyes and nose, while direct contact with chlorine can cause severe chemical burns. Chlorine is heavier than air, so using it in poorly ventilated areas can result in asphyxiation. Chlorine bleach should never be combined with ammonia since they can potentially form chloramines, which are gases that can cause irritation in the throat, nose, and eyes, as well as pneumonia and fluid in the lungs.
• Cleaners with Sodium Hydroxide or Sodium Hypochlorite: Sodium hydroxide[6] is typically found in oven and drain cleaners. It is odorless and may irritate the eyes and skin through indirect and cause thermal and chemical burns through direct contact. Sodium Hypochlorite[1] is typically found in bleach cleaners and belongs to the family of chlorines. Chlorine gas may be released from hypochlorite solutions, which may irritate the skin and eyes. Since chlorine can be released, it is essential to avoid contact with products containing ammonia. Higher concentrations may cause chemical burns, and ingesting concentrate can result in corrosive injury.
• Dry-Cleaning Solutions with Perchloroethylene: Tetrachloroethylene or PERC[2] is commonly found in degreasing and dry-cleaning products. Contact with the chemical is usually made via inhalation, with odor being the primary indicator of acute exposure. Lower levels of exposure lead to respiratory irritation, while increased exposure may lead to central nervous system conditions such as drowsiness and dizziness. Extreme exposure can lead to coma, and in some cases, can cause death.
• Scented Cleaning Products with Phthalates: Phthalates are one of the most used chemicals in cleaners, fragrances, cosmetics, food packaging, and various personal care products. Nearly all Americans test positive for phthalates in their urine[3]. While there is a lack of definitive research detailing the effects of phthalates on the human body, it does not mean that there is no effect. They have been linked to changes in hormone levels[4] and could potentially be related to more health issues as research progresses.