ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

Spray bottles have become a symbol of cleaning - ubiquitous in advertisements, training materials and even emojis. But behind their convenience lies a set of risks that deserve closer attention.

If we want cleaning to be truly safe, effective, and sustainable, it's time to rethink the spray bottle. That's according to Helge Alt from Puhastusekspert in Estonia and Tarja Valkosalo of Propuhtaus in Finland. They take a closer look at what research actually says.

Health risks: what we breathe matters

A landmark study from the University of Bergen revealed that long-term exposure to cleaning sprays can impair lung function as severely as smoking 20 cigarettes a day. The fine mist released during spraying contains volatile chemicals that linger in the air and are easily inhaled. The American Lung Association also warns that many cleaning products-especially sprays-emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to asthma, allergies, and chronic respiratory conditions.

A review by Clausen et al. (2020) highlights that spray-generated aerosols often contain corrosive substances such as strong acids, bases, ammonia, and hypochlorite, which can adversely affect respiratory health. Quaternary ammonium compounds may also pose risks when sprayed, although current evidence regarding their respiratory effects remains inconclusive. The authors emphasize that cleaning and disinfectant products are complex chemical mixtures, and comprehensive studies on all their health effects would require resources that are currently unavailable.

In addition to respiratory risks, cleaning agents may cause skin irritation.

Ergonomics: small action, big strain

Repeated spraying may seem harmless, but it places strain on the hand and wrist, and fingers - especially over long shifts. This repetitive motion can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even long-term musculoskeletal issues. In a profession where physical well-being is essential, ergonomics should be a core part of employee training and everyday awareness.

Hygiene: when the bottle becomes the problem

A Dutch study found that 60 per cent of spray bottles used in real-life cleaning situations were microbiologically contaminated. Instead of removing dirt, these bottles can spread it-especially when reused without proper disinfection. Contamination was found both in the liquid and in biofilms inside the bottles, making them a hidden source of microbial spread.

In theory, spray bottles should be cleaned daily - scrubbed with a brush or washed in a disinfecting equipment washer. But in practice? That rarely happens. And when bottles aren't cleaned, it's only logical that microbes grow-turning the bottle itself into a breeding ground.

Efficiency and sustainability: cleaning with purpose

Spraying often spreads cleaning agents beyond the intended area, increasing the surface to be wiped and wasting time and resources. Sustainable cleaning means removing dirt with minimal effort and materials. Overuse of chemicals and unnecessary wiping contradicts this principle.

A better way forward

Instead of spray bottles, consider:
• Pre-moistened cloths and mops: consistent moisture, no airborne mist.
• Use moistening bottles: controlled application, reduced waste.
• Targeted techniques: cleaning with intention, not habit.

If spray bottles are preferred, healthier and more suitable alternatives include:

• Foaming bottles, which reduce airborne particles by transforming liquid into foam.
• Bottles that produce larger droplets, avoiding the formation of fine mist or 'spray fog' that can linger in the air and be inhaled.

Conclusion: cleaning with care and knowledge

Cleaning should protect, not harm. That starts with awareness. Spray bottles may be familiar, but familiarity doesn't equal safety. They often create airborne mist and are neither economical nor sustainable. By choosing smarter tools-like pre-moistened cloths and mops that offer consistent moisture without mist-and training cleaning professionals with evidence-based knowledge, we can improve health, hygiene, and sustainability.

These choices help minimise respiratory exposure and environmental contamination, aligning cleaning practices with both safety and sustainability goals.

Let's lead the shift toward thoughtful, science-based cleaning-because every choice we make touches lives.