Cleaning products available on store shelves affect our he alth. They contain dangerous substances that irritate the eyes, respiratory system, or affect the work of the endocrine system. What to pay attention to when cleaning at home to avoid danger? Should we wear a protective mask when cleaning with household chemicals?

Household chemicals can affect human he alth. Cleaning in protective gloves is natural and does not raise any doubts. Many people take particular care when certain detergents come into contact with their skin or eyes. However, what about our respiratory system? Can contact with detergents be harmful to our respiratory tract? Which of them require the use of a mask?

What are detergents?

Detergents are cleaning substances and preparations containing surfactants for washing and cleaning various types of surfaces.

The most popular detergent issoap, which reduces surface tension. Although nowadays it is most often used for washing hands, a few years ago it was used in home cleaning.

Detergents are in the form of liquids, powders, milks or pastes, and their composition depends on their intended use.

The impact of detergents on human he alth

The composition of detergents depends on their intended use, but most of them include:

  • Chlorine , the main ingredient in toilet cleaners, bathroom fixtures and laundry bleach. It has an antimicrobial effect. It is a poisonous substance that irritates the mucous membranes and the respiratory system.
  • Sodium hydroxideis hidden in drain cleaners. Irritates the mucous membranes and the respiratory system.
  • Triclosan , being a component of dishwashing liquids, has antibacterial and fungicidal properties. It disturbs the balance of human bacterial microflora.
  • Parabensadversely affect the work of hormones.
  • Ammoniais a popular chemical found in many cleaning products. It is a poisonous substance, irritates the eyes, respiratory system and lungs.
  • Phthalateshave a negative effect on functionsreproductive system and respiratory system. In addition, they cause DNA damage.
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)one of the most popular detergents that is a component of foaming agents. May irritate the skin and eyes.

Harmful effects of detergents and misuse

The negative impact of detergents on human he alth most often results from improper use , andtoo long exposure to them . This most often applies to people who are exposed to it in their professional lives.

Harmful substances that are components of household chemicals can get into the body through contact with the skin, eyes or respiratory tract.

Inhaling vapors of highly corrosive preparations causes:

  • cough,
  • headache,
  • eyes burning
  • or skin allergies.

In turn, with too long exposure, detergents can contribute to:

  • serious respiratory disorders,
  • hormonal disorders,
  • fertility problems,
  • and cancer development.

In addition, even air fresheners contribute to the development of asthma and irritate the respiratory tract.

When cleaning the oven in the kitchen or bathroom fittings, we do not realize that we not only remove dirt, germs and polish the surface, but also contribute to irritation or the development of allergies. How to prevent this?

Safety while cleaning

Particular care should be taken when cleaning at home by allergy sufferers, the elderly or pregnant women. However, in fact, safety rules during cleaning should be followed by each of us - regardless of age and gender.

What should you pay special attention to?

  • First of all, avoid direct skin contact with caustic substances, so it is worth using protective gloves.
  • In addition, even during home cleaning, with the use of detergents that are hazardous to he alth, we should wear a protective mask so as not to irritate the respiratory system.
  • In some cases, e.g. when using caustic preparations for unblocking pipes, it is worth protecting your eyes with protective glasses.

Remember that each room to be cleaned should be well ventilated so as not to expose other household members to contact with vapors.

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Category:

Respiratory system