Protecting Your Family: The Link Between Household Cleaning Products and Childhood Asthma
As parents, we naturally want to create the safest environment possible for our children. However, recent research by the Canadian Medical Association is shedding light on a hidden danger lurking in many homes – common household cleaning products. A recent study reveals a troubling connection between these products and the development of childhood asthma. This highlights the importance of making informed choices for the health of our families.
Read the full study: Association of Use of Cleaning Products with Respiratory Health in a Canadian Birth Cohort
The Hidden Dangers of Chemical Cleaners
Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of household chemicals Their delicate respiratory systems and skin are more susceptible to chronic, low-level exposure, which is concerning given their higher respiration rate and frequent contact with surfaces in the home. The study found that this exposure can lead to chronic inflammation of the respiratory lining, a condition that can trigger or exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Among the most harmful are scented products and sprays, which are associated with the highest risks. These findings underscore the need for caution when selecting cleaning products, especially in households with young children.
The Impact on Respiratory Health
Recent research shows how early exposure to common household cleaning products is linked to childhood asthma and poorer respiratory health in young children.
The research findings are stark: exposure to everyday cleaning products such as hand soap, washing-up liquid, dishwasher detergent, multi-surface cleaners, glass cleaners, and laundry soap is linked to an increased risk of asthma in children. In fact, the study found that children exposed more frequently to these products had a 35% greater risk of developing asthma symptoms by the age of three.
Scented and sprayed products were identified as particularly harmful and linked to the highest risk of respiratory issues. They may also affect a child’s immune system by altering their microbiome – the ‘good’ bacteria found in and on the body that play a significant role in health.
These insights point to a pressing need for change. By altering our cleaning habits and choosing safer products, we can potentially prevent the development of respiratory issues in children and promote better long-term health.
The Broader Health Implications
While the study focuses on children, the findings have broader implications for adult health as well. In the UK alone, nearly 5.5 million people, including 1.1 million children, receive treatment for asthma, costing the NHS around £1 billion annually. The impact of asthma is not just financial; it’s a significant public health issue. In 2018, 1,422 people died from asthma in England and Wales – a worrying 8% increase from the previous year.
These statistics highlight the importance of addressing asthma triggers, including those found in common cleaning products, to improve health outcomes.
Making Safer Choices for Your Home
Given the risks associated with traditional cleaning products, it’s good to be thoughtful when selecting products for your home. Here are some key recommendations:
- Read labels carefully: Not all manufacturers are required to list all ingredients, so it’s crucial to be discerning.
- Beware of greenwashing: Some products marketed as “green” may still contain harmful substances. Always check for certifications and ingredient transparency.
- Prioritise respiratory safety: Choose products that do not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chemical fragrances, or irritants. Look for options that help reduce allergens and mould without compromising air quality.
- Consider probiotic cleaning products: Products like our Provilan probiotic range are safe for indoor air and respiratory safety. These products offer an effective, non-toxic alternative to traditional cleaners, using beneficial bacteria to maintain high levels of hygiene whilst being gentle on health.
A Cleaner, Safer Future
Switching to non-toxic, probiotic cleaning products is a small but impactful step towards creating a safer, healthier home environment. This helps to reduce the risk of childhood asthma and contribute to better respiratory health for everyone in your household.
Discover Provilan probiotic home cleaning products. EVAA+ Air Optimiser reduces the allergens that can trigger asthma and is A+ rated for respiratory safety.
Research Reference: Association of Use of Cleaning Products with Respiratory Health in a Canadian Birth Cohort: Jaclyn Parks BSc et al CMAJ 2020 February 18; 192: E154-61. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.190819
