New research shows that many cleaning products marketed as "green" release the same amount of harmful chemicals as traditional cleaning products. Researchers say there is a need for greater regulation and more guidance for consumers on how safe cleaning products really are. The study, published by the Royal Society of Chemistry in the journal Environmental Science: Processes and Effects, found that scented cleaning products may be harmful to the air quality in people's homes.
Cleaning products release a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which are harmful, and some of which undergo chemical changes to produce harmful secondary pollutants. "Green" cleaners have grown in popularity in recent years, with the implicit assumption that these cleaners are better for our health and the environment. But research from the University of York found that's not the case.
As part of the study, researchers tested the volatile organic compound content of 10 conventional cleaners and 13 green cleaners. Green cleaners often release more monoterpenes than regular cleaners, leading to increased concentrations of harmful secondary contaminants such as formaldehyde and peroxyacetyl nitrate after use.
Research has found that the fragrance components of these products are sources of volatile monoterpenes. As levels of these contaminants increase in the home, susceptible people may develop breathing problems or irritations of the eyes, nose, throat, or skin. In some cases, repeated exposure to high levels of formaldehyde may cause cancer.
Ellen Harding-Smith, an environmental chemistry researcher in the Department of Environment and Geography, said: "Our study found there is no strong evidence that green cleaning products are better for indoor air quality than regular products. In fact, the difference between the two is very small. Many consumers are misled by the marketing of these products, and the results may be damaging the air quality in their homes - potentially putting their health at risk. For many products on supermarket shelves, green does not mean clean."
The research was funded by the UK Engineering and Social Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) under the project name "IMPeCCABLE". The project is a collaboration between the Department of Environment and Geography, the Department of Chemistry and the Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratory at the University of York.
Harding-Smith, a PhD student, added: "This study highlights potential ingredient differences in regular and green cleaner formulations, and there is currently very little literature on this. Manufacturers really need to have a clearer understanding of what is in these products and how to mitigate their hazards. For example, simply improving ventilation and opening windows when using these cleaning products can greatly improve the air quality in your home."
Compiled source: ScitechDaily