The Impact of Chemicals in Household Cleaners on Indoor Air Quality

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. 😨

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.

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:
- 🔗Fragranced consumer products: exposures and effects from emissions -Anne Steinemann
- 🔗EPA’s Overview on VOCs
- 🔗Research on Household Cleaners and Respiratory Health
- 🔗Study on Air Fresheners and Phthalates
- 🔗 A study on VOCs and their long-term health effects
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.