ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

Particles from scented cleaning products can be inhaled deep into the lungs, according to scientists.

And they can contribute to respiratory system issues or even enter the bloodstream.

Researchers at Purdue University in Indiana began studying the impact of cleaning products and chemical disinfectants on indoor environments during the Covid-19 pandemic. During their study they observed that many of the products were heavily scented, says study lead Brandon Boor.

"The idea is to create a pleasant smellscape in the indoor space," he said. "But clean air should not smell like highly concentrated citrus fruit - it should not really smell of anything."

Scientists found that activities such as mopping, spraying countertops and wiping surfaces with scented products formed billions of ultra-fine particles in quantities well above the levels usually found outdoors.

And they were surprised to discover that these particles were able to form and grow within a matter of minutes. "By the time you finish cleaning up an indoor space, you've already formed a lot of nanoparticles and inhaled them," says Boor.

Ultrafine particles pose potential health risks because they are small enough to be deposited throughout the airways and penetrate deep into the lungs.

Boor claims he wants the findings to inform consumers' choices rather than alarm them. He advises people to choose low-fragrance or fragrance-free products where possible; to avoid applying several scented products in the same cleaning session and to run exhaust fans or open windows when cleaning to ventilate the space.