Clean But Not Safe

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Cleaning and chemicals – the two words seem synonymous these days.  But while the chemicals in cleaners, foam, bleach and disinfectants keep dishes, countertops and bathrooms shiny and germ-free, many also contribute to indoor air pollution.  They are poisonous if ingested, and can be harmful if inhaled or touched. In fact, some cleaners are among the most toxic products found in the home. Recent studies have linked chemicals in household cleaning products to health problems such as asthma, headaches and chronic fatigue syndrome.  They leave the house through the drains and end up in the environment where they can interact to form other dangerous chemicals. Exposure to such a chemical cocktail over the years has even been linked to cancers of the skin, liver and bladder. 

Assistant Professor Simo Pehkonen of the department of chemical and biomolecular engineering at the National University of Singapore, said little is known about the combined effect of different cleaning chemicals used in the home.  It is possible for these chemicals to react and form compounds whose long-term effects have not been studied. 
Bottom line: Limit the number of chemicals you use at home and switch to non-toxic alternatives where possible. 

When using cleaning chemicals, he suggests diluting them as they are quite concentrated. The Environmental Protection Agency in the US suggests using eco-friendly alternatives such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda for simple cleaning.  For instance, a mixture of white wine vinegar, lemon and a handful of baking soda can leave the toilet sparkling clean. 

Housewives, have for centuries, also tapped into the power of salt. Rub a little – but vigorously – on your silverware, and see the shine return.  Increasingly, eco-friendly companies are offering alternatives to harsh chemicals. Like Enjo, a cleaning product made of microfibres, created by an Austrian company of the same name. Its range of fibres and gloves claim to tackle most tasks – from cleaning greasy oven tops to polishing windows and glass – without chemicals, using just cold water. 

Even that does not convince Maureen Teo, a housewife who has minimised the use of cleaning chemicals for the sake of both the environment and her family’s health.  She has stopped using fabric softeners, conditioners due to the chemicals they contain. She also never use room fresheners.  While she does use some chemicals, she does so sparingly. She use only diluted floor cleaner very sparingly once a week. In the kitchen, she  normally clean up with very hot water after cooking.  

Culprits in the home

Anti-microbial shower gels and handwashes 
These can spell trouble in the long run. The problem is that our immunity may be reduced as the bacteria can mutate into more resistant forms.  Good old soap and water can do the job of keeping you clean. Many people also resort to synthetic air fresheners, ammonia-based glass cleaners as well as bleach-based products. These chemicals can cause irritation to the eyes and skin.
 
Floor cleaners 
They often contain harsh, toxic solvents such as ammonia and isopropanol to get the job done. Ammonia fumes can irritate lungs and, if mixed with chlorine-laced products, has the potential to create other noxious gases. These are called volatile organic compounds and, in fact, make for poor air quality in the home.  Studies at Australia’s Curtin Institute of Technology have indicated that these compounds can increase the risk of asthma, particularly in children. The accumulation of such volatile organic compounds can contribute to what is called ‘Sick Home Syndrome’.  To avoid such build-up, air the rooms at least once a day. This will help release chemicals that have built up. 

Insect sprays 
Household sprays to kill cockroaches contain chemicals called organophosphate pesticides which are neurotoxins. Once sprayed, the mist settles on household surfaces like tabletops, floors and furniture. This is why they should be used with care around pregnant women and children. 
These compounds have been found in breast milk and are linked to respiratory problems in children. Opt for natural repellents like pandan leaves, for instance, and go for lemon-based cleaners which are also effective but less harmful. Or, eliminate the source of the problem altogether – leave no food crumbs for the vermin to feed on.