Icon-delivery-truckFree Shipping on orders over $58

icon-favAll products made in America

icon_plantAwarded Allure Magazine Best of Beauty!

The Impact of Chemicals in Household Cleaners on Indoor Air Quality

someone wearing rubber gloves spraying cleaner on a bathroom sink faucet

I walked into my house after a deep cleaning session, expecting the smell of lemon and lavender to make me feel refreshed. But instead, my chest felt heavy, and I noticed a slight headache creeping in. It hit me: the “fresh” scent I loved so much was probably more harmful than I realized. 🧴  

Household cleaners are supposed to leave our homes spotless, but many of them release chemicals into the air that can harm our health. This got me thinking—what’s really in these cleaners, and how are they affecting the air we breathe inside our homes? 

The Truth About VOCs in Household Cleaners

Many conventional household cleaners contain chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are gases released into the air that can negatively impact indoor air quality. VOCs are found in a variety of products, from disinfectants to air fresheners. While they’re meant to clean and freshen, they can actually contribute to poor indoor air quality, triggering respiratory issues, headaches, and even long-term health problems. 😷  

According to the EPA, indoor air quality can often be worse than outdoor air due to the presence of these VOCs. (You can read more about VOCs using the links provided at the end of this article.)

Common Chemicals to Watch Out For 

When it comes to your cleaning products, there are several common chemicals to be mindful of:

  • Ammonia: Often found in glass and window cleaners. It can irritate the respiratory system and worsen asthma. 
  • Chlorine: Found in bleach and disinfectants. While it’s effective at killing germs, it can cause respiratory distress when inhaled. 
  • Phthalates: Used in air fresheners and scented cleaners. Linked to hormone disruption and respiratory issues. 
  • Fragrance: Commonly added to a variety of products, including body care items, dog shampoos, rug cleaners, and all-purpose cleaners, synthetic fragrances can emit VOCs that contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause health issues such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. 

Exposure to these chemicals is often higher than we think, especially in homes that are sealed tight for energy efficiency, trapping those harmful fumes indoors. 😨 

a girl sneezing into a tissue in her home
Exposure to VOCs, especially over time, can contribute to allergies and other health issues. | Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

How VOCs Affect Indoor Air Quality 

VOCs don’t just evaporate and disappear after cleaning—they linger in the air long after you’ve put the products away. This creates a buildup of harmful chemicals, making the air in your home less safe to breathe. Over time, exposure to VOCs has been linked to a range of health problems, including:  

  • Respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis 
  • Headaches and dizziness 
  • Long-term health risks, including potential links to cancer 

Safer Alternatives for a Cleaner Home and Cleaner Air

The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals to keep your home clean. There are plenty of safe, **non-toxic** alternatives that are just as effective without polluting your indoor air. 

Consider switching to products like Tangie’s line of zero-waste cleaning products, which are made with safe, plant-based ingredients that won’t compromise your health. 🌿 For example, Tangie’s dishwashing soap bar and laundry concentrate are perfect examples of how you can clean your home without worrying about harmful VOCs. 

Other tips for improving indoor air quality include: 

  • Ventilation: Open windows and doors when cleaning to allow fresh air to circulate. 
  • Air purifiers: Use HEPA filters to capture airborne particles, including VOCs. 
  • Avoid fragrances: Switch to unscented or fragrance-free products. 
a person opening the window in their home
Opening a few windows for even just 10 minutes per day helps improve indoor air quality. | Photo by Jametlene Reskp

Scientific Data on the Impact of Household Cleaners on Air Quality 

For those wanting to learn more, here are some key studies on the impact of household cleaners and VOCs on indoor air quality: 

Cleaner Products for Cleaner Air 

The air inside your home should be safe to breathe, but many conventional cleaners are filling your space with harmful chemicals. By choosing non-toxic, plant-based cleaning products and improving ventilation, you can protect both your health and the environment. 🌍 

If you’re ready to breathe easier, check out Tangie’s shop for products that prioritize your health without sacrificing cleanliness.

Author:

Angie Ringler

Written by Angie Ringler. Hi! I am the founder of Tangieco. I am a dedicated advocate for sustainable living and eco-conscious choices. A self proclaimed tree hugger.

I write to inspire and empower you to embrace a greener lifestyle. Through articles, innovative products, and a commitment to showing you ways to eliminate harmful chemicals from the products around you.

An eco-friendly gift wrapped in cloth with leaves and dried orange slices for decoration.Thoughtful & Sustainable Gift Ideas: Inspired by Real Stories 🎁🌿 
A hand wearing a rubber glove using a spray bottle to spray a cleaning product on a tableThe Hidden Dangers of Fragrances in Everyday Products

Healthier for you and the planet

Ready to give plastic a boot? Shop now!

truck-purple
Free shipping on orders over $58
package-purple
Compostable packaging
fav-purple
2,000+ reviews of happy customers
leaf-purple
Vegan, bio safe, plastic free products
Go to Top