Cleaning at Home & Work Like Smoking Cigarettes

Cleaning can be like smoking

Cleaning tasks performed at home and work often include the use of harsh chemicals and could cause lung damage similar to smoking cigarettes. Asthma and other respiratory conditions have been reported related to the use of cleaning products, so researchers took a closer look at long term risk of lung problems with cleaning. How do you think using chemical cleaning products compares to smoking?

Researchers collected data on over 6000 participants for over twenty years and compared frequency of cleaning at home and work to measurements of lung health. They concluded, "Women cleaning at home or working as occupational cleaners had accelerated decline in lung function, suggesting that exposures related to cleaning activities may constitute a risk to long-term respiratory health." Rates of asthma were higher in women that reported more frequent cleaning at home or for work. Researchers noted, "the effect of occupational cleaning was thus comparable to smoking somewhat less than [1 pack/day for 20 years]."

How Can Cleaning Products Be So Harmful to the Lungs?

Researchers noted, "most cleaning agents have an irritative effect" on the lining of our airways. Some may cause a harmful immune system response, and others could cause scar tissue type changes that damage the airways and reduce lung function. They specifically named ammonia and bleach as chemicals likely to cause lung damage. Think about the irritation of skin with these chemicals if you don't use gloves. The same irritation can occur in the lungs with each breath.

What Can You Do to Avoid Lung Damage While Cleaning?

The first step to reduce your risk of lung problems with cleaning is to reduce your exposure. You don't have to stop cleaning the house. Limit the use of the harshest chemicals like bleach and ammonia. Try to use those as infrequently as possible, and if using, try to avoid spraying them into the air or use a mask to limit exposure. Remember: the stronger it smells, generally the more you are breathing in.

Fortunately, more and more natural cleaning products are available that are significantly less harmful. Check out your options next time you go to the store. Simple vinegar and baking soda can also be used for lots of cleaning needs. And don't get too concerned about having the most sterile house on the block. Over-cleaning your space has been associated with more health problems.

Similar to improvements in lung health measured in smokers that quit, those who improve their cleaning habits are also likely to note improvements in lung health. It's never too late to make changes that will benefit your health. If you want even more help, consider a detox program to reduce your body's chemical load. 

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