Are We Using Too Many Cleaning Products? How to Keep a Clean Home Without Exposing the Body to Unnecessary Substances

When we walk into a supermarket and reach the cleaning products aisle, it is hard not to be impressed by the number of products.

A special spray for the kitchen, a separate product for the bathroom, a liquid for cleaning the floor, a degreaser, a limescale remover, an antibacterial product, bleach, and another product that promises to eliminate 99.9% of the bacteria.

Every surface seemingly has its own product, and every product another promise.

Over the years we have grown used to thinking that for the home to be truly clean, we need to use strong cleaning products.

But is that true?

Does every surface at home need to be disinfected? Does a strong smell of cleaning product indicate cleanliness? And does the daily use of a variety of sprays and chemicals really benefit our health?

The answer is simpler than it seems.

For most routine cleaning tasks at home, there is no need to disinfect every surface. Proper cleaning with water, a cleaning agent, and friction can be enough.

However, there are situations in which disinfection is very important, and the difference between cleaning and disinfection is something we should all know.

What is the difference between cleaning and disinfection?

We use the words cleaning and disinfection as if they describe the same action, but scientifically they are two different processes.

Cleaning

Cleaning is meant to remove dirt, grease, food residues, and some of the microorganisms found on surfaces.

It is done using water, cleaning agents, and a mechanical action such as wiping or scrubbing.

Disinfection

Disinfection is meant to destroy or neutralize certain microorganisms found on surfaces.

For this, products are used that have been tested and approved for defined disinfection purposes, according to the instructions for use.

It is important to understand that disinfection does not necessarily replace cleaning.

When a surface is covered with grease or dirt, the disinfectant may work less effectively.

So in many cases the surface needs to be cleaned before it is disinfected.

How do soap and cleaning products really work?

Soap and cleaning products have an interesting ability.

Their molecules contain a part that is attracted to water and a part that binds to grease.

This property allows them to help break down and remove grease and dirt from surfaces.

When we scrub a surface with a cloth or a brush, the mechanical action helps detach the dirt.

Afterwards, rinsing or a suitable wipe removes the dirt and the cleaning product residues.

This is one of the basic principles of effective cleaning.

Regular soap does not have to kill all the bacteria to help reduce their presence on a surface.

Sometimes the very removal of them is the important action.

This is also one of the explanations for the effectiveness of washing hands with water and soap.

Are all the bacteria at home dangerous?

No.

We live in a world full of microorganisms.

Bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms are found in the air, on surfaces, on the skin, and in our digestive system.

Many of them do not cause illness, and some play important roles in various biological systems.

The goal of home cleaning is not to create a completely sterile environment.

In an ordinary home, which is not a medical environment, there is no need to destroy every microorganism on every surface.

The goal is to reduce dirt, prevent the accumulation of harmful factors, and lower the risk of disease transmission.

So it is important to match the cleaning method to the type of surface and the level of risk.

Can regular use of strong cleaning products affect the lungs?

This is one of the interesting and important topics in the field of home environmental health.

Some cleaning products contain ingredients that may irritate the airways.

Especially when they are used as a spray, in small spaces, or without suitable ventilation.

In a large observational study published in 2018 in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the connection between the use of cleaning products and lung function over a long period was examined.

The study included more than 6,000 participants and was conducted as part of a follow-up that lasted about twenty years.

The researchers found that among women who cleaned at home or at work regularly, a faster decline was observed in certain measures of lung function compared with women who did not clean.

The researchers noted that the size of the decline found in one of the measures was similar in magnitude to the effect associated with smoking about 10–20 pack-years.

But it is very important to be precise on this point.

The study did not prove that cleaning the home harms the lungs exactly like smoking.

Nor did it prove that every cleaning product causes damage.

It is an observational study that found a statistical association, not an experiment that proved causality.

However, the findings definitely reinforce the importance of reducing unnecessary exposure to irritating substances, especially for those who use cleaning products frequently.

Why do cleaning sprays raise special concern?

When we use a spray, some of the product may disperse into the air as small droplets.

Depending on the droplet size and the product's composition, some of them may be inhaled.

In addition, some cleaning products emit volatile compounds into the air.

Exposure to irritating substances can cause, in sensitive people, coughing, throat irritation, a burning sensation in the nose, or worsening of asthma symptoms.

So, when the same result can be achieved with a liquid cleaning product and a cloth, it is sometimes better to prefer this method over spraying directly into the room's air.

If a spray is used anyway, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure suitable ventilation.

Does a strong smell of cleanliness indicate a clean home?

We are used to associating the smell of bleach, lemon, or a scented cleaning product with a feeling of cleanliness.

But smell is not a reliable measure of the level of cleanliness or disinfection.

A surface can be very clean without leaving a smell behind.

And conversely, a surface that smells scented is not necessarily clean of dirt or contaminants.

Fragrance ingredients are sometimes used to create a pleasant user experience or to mask other odors.

But there is no need for a strong smell for a cleaning product to do its job.

In some people, especially those who suffer from migraines or airway sensitivity, strong smells may cause discomfort.

So if we have no need for fragrance, we can certainly choose cleaning products without added scent.

Why is it important to be especially careful with bleach?

Bleach is an effective disinfectant when used correctly and for the appropriate purposes.

It is not a substance to fear in every situation, but it is very important to know the risks involved in incorrect use.

One of the most important rules is:

Never mix bleach with other cleaning products, unless the manufacturer explicitly states that the combination is permitted.

Mixing bleach with acids, including vinegar and some limescale removers, can release toxic chlorine gas.

Mixing bleach with ammonia or products containing ammonia can create chloramine compounds that are dangerous to breathe.

Exposure to these gases can cause significant irritation to the eyes and airways, and in severe cases also lung damage.

So do not combine cleaning products thinking the combination will be stronger and more effective.

If a chemical reaction that releases irritating fumes accidentally occurs, move away from the area immediately and seek appropriate help. In the United States, the Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222, and in case of significant shortness of breath or respiratory distress, call emergency services.

What do aggressive cleaning products do to the skin of the hands?

Our hands come into contact with water and cleaning products many times during the day.

Repeated use of detergents, solvents, and irritating substances can damage the lipids that make up the skin's protective barrier.

When the barrier is damaged, the skin loses water more easily.

The result can be dryness, roughness, redness, burning, and cracks.

In some cases, contact dermatitis develops, called Contact Dermatitis.

In some people it is irritation caused by repeated exposure to substances.

In others, an allergy to a specific ingredient may develop.

So it is very important to protect the hands while cleaning, especially when using concentrated products or when cleaning lasts a long time.

Do gloves really help protect the skin?

Yes.

Suitable gloves can reduce direct contact between cleaning products and the skin.

But it is important to choose gloves suited to the type of product being used.

Not every type of glove is resistant to every chemical.

It is worth checking the manufacturer's instructions and avoiding the use of damaged gloves.

In addition, it is important to dry the hands well after cleaning and apply a suitable moisturizer.

If gloves are used for a long time, sweat and trapped moisture can also irritate the skin.

So it is worth letting the hands air out between prolonged cleaning tasks.

Do disinfectants leave residues on food surfaces?

Some disinfectants may leave residues on surfaces.

The significance depends on the product's composition, concentration, and manner of use.

So it is especially important to read the manufacturer's instructions when using disinfectants on surfaces that come into contact with food.

Some products require rinsing with water after use, and others are approved for use under certain conditions without additional rinsing.

There is no single rule that fits all disinfectants.

Nor is there justification to assume that every residue of a disinfectant is necessarily dangerous.

The safe way is to use a product intended for the specific surface and act exactly according to its instructions.

When do we really need to disinfect the home?

For most routine home cleaning, regular cleaning can be enough.

But there are situations in which targeted disinfection is important.

When someone at home is ill with a contagious disease

For example, when there is an infection in the digestive system or another illness that may be transmitted via surfaces.

In such cases, disinfection of frequently touched surfaces may be needed.

After significant contamination of a surface

For example, when a surface came into contact with vomit, feces, or other body fluids.

In certain food preparation situations

When a surface came into contact with raw meat, raw poultry, or other food that may contain disease-causing factors, it is important to clean it well and disinfect as needed and according to food safety guidelines.

When there is a person at home with a weakened immune system

In such cases, cleaning and disinfection measures tailored to medical recommendations may be needed.

The principle is to use disinfection when there is a real reason, and not on the assumption that every surface at home must be disinfected daily.

Is simple dish soap enough to clean most of the home?

For many routine cleaning purposes, a gentle cleaning agent and water can be enough.

For example, for removing grease and dirt from surfaces suited to cleaning with water.

But it is important to match the product to the surface.

Not every surface is resistant to water, soap, or scrubbing.

Untreated wood, natural stone, surfaces with a special coating, and other sensitive materials may require unique cleaning instructions.

So there is no need to buy a dedicated product for every corner of the home, but it is also not advisable to automatically use the same product on every surface.

And what about baking soda?

Baking soda is a relatively mild basic substance, also used for home cleaning purposes.

It can help remove certain dirt, neutralize odors, and gently scrub suitable surfaces.

But it is important to know that it is not a reliable disinfectant for home use.

In addition, because of its abrasive nature, it may damage sensitive surfaces or certain coatings.

So it should be used only when it suits the material the surface is made of.

Is vinegar a good cleaning product?

Vinegar contains acetic acid at a relatively low concentration.

Because of its acidity, it can help remove limescale deposits from certain surfaces.

For example, in some kettles or on surfaces suited to cleaning with acid.

But vinegar is not a substitute for an approved disinfectant when reliable disinfection is required.

In addition, vinegar may damage natural stone such as marble and limestone, as well as other materials and coatings.

And of course, it should never be mixed with bleach.

Should we make our own home cleaning products?

The idea of preparing simple cleaning products at home can be appealing.

We know what we put into the bottle and can avoid fragrance or certain ingredients.

But it is important to remember that home products can also cause irritation or damage if used incorrectly.

Natural is not necessarily safe.

And mixing substances that look innocent can also create unwanted reactions.

So if we choose to use a homemade cleaning solution, it is better to prefer simple recipes, not mix unfamiliar substances, and not use the mixture as a substitute for medical or sanitary disinfection.

How can we reduce exposure to cleaning products without compromising on cleanliness?

I think the most important change is to stop linking cleanliness with the quantity of products we use.

A clean home does not have to smell of strong cleaning products.

And it does not have to contain ten different bottles under the sink.

We can start with a few simple principles:

• Choose a cleaning product suited to the surface and the type of dirt.
• Prefer wiping or rinsing over spraying into the air when possible.
• Use the recommended amount, and do not add more product thinking that more is necessarily better.
• Ventilate the home while using products that may release fumes.
• Use suitable gloves when there is prolonged contact with water or cleaning products.
• Keep cleaning products in their original packaging, out of children's reach.
• Disinfect when there is a real need, using a suitable product and according to the instructions.

Our approach at OrOrgani

At OrOrgani we talk a lot about the skin's protective barrier and the importance of using ingredients suited to its needs.

But in my view, this principle does not end with the skincare routine.

It continues into our habits at home as well.

We can invest in a quality hand cream and in products that help maintain the skin's moisture, but if we expose our hands daily to aggressive cleaning products without protection, we may damage the skin barrier we are trying to nurture.

I also don't think we need to fear every chemical.

Water is a chemical, soap is a chemical, and vinegar and baking soda are chemicals too.

The important question is not whether a certain substance is chemical, but whether it suits the purpose, what its risks are, and how it is used correctly.

For me, the right approach is to choose the simplest and most effective product for the task, without adding unnecessary exposure.

In summary: a clean home does not have to be a home that smells of cleaning products

Home cleanliness is an important part of maintaining a pleasant, healthy living environment.

But not every cleaning action requires a strong disinfectant.

For most routine cleaning tasks, water, a suitable cleaning agent, and mechanical action can remove dirt and reduce the presence of microorganisms.

Disinfection is important in certain situations, especially when there is a danger of transmitting disease-causing factors.

However, unnecessary use of irritating substances, frequent spraying, and incorrect mixing of cleaning products can create risks that can be avoided.

I believe good cleaning is not measured by the strength of the smell remaining in the home or by the number of bottles in the cupboard, but by our ability to maintain a clean environment without creating unnecessary exposure for ourselves and our family.

Sometimes we don't need a stronger product.

We simply need to understand better how cleaning works.

Water, a suitable cleaning agent, a good cloth, ventilation, and correct use of disinfectants when truly needed.

This can be a simple, effective cleaning routine that is more considerate of the skin, the airways, and the home environment.

With love,
Nurit
OrOrgani

With love,
Nurit Rozenblat
OrOrgani

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