To reduce pollution and protect health, experts recommend avoiding certain household products like Destop, Canard WC, and Javel, which are strong chemical cleaners. These products can release harmful substances into the air and are linked to indoor pollution. Vert, an organization promoting sustainable living, suggests eco-friendly alternatives for home maintenance. According to the Agency for Ecological Transition (Ademe), indoor air is often significantly more polluted than outdoor air, with household products being a major contributor due to the toxic substances they contain.
Emily Spiesser from Ademe advises using fewer cleaning products and applying them sparingly, noting that regular cleaning is more effective than using large quantities. Dr. Philippe Carenco, a former hygiene service head at the Nice University Hospital, supports this view, stating that more product does not necessarily mean better cleaning. Many household products contain harmful substances such as ammonia, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and proven carcinogens like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde. In 2021, the High Council for Health found that 91% of tested household products contained formaldehyde, a substance that can cause immediate effects like nausea, asthma, and respiratory issues, and long-term risks such as hormone disruption.
Products with fragrances, such as air fresheners and incense, can irritate the respiratory system and cause discomfort for sensitive individuals. These items often release VOCs and may contain phthalates, which interfere with the hormonal system. Experts recommend ventilating homes for five to ten minutes daily and after cleaning to reduce the buildup of indoor pollutants. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with health conditions like asthma or heart disease are particularly vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollution.
Philippe Carenco points out that most household bacteria are harmless, and only 3% can cause illness, making frequent use of disinfectants unnecessary. In France, seven out of ten households still use bleach, which can increase the risk of respiratory infections in children. Disinfectants may contain triclosan, an endocrine disruptor, and are difficult to break down in wastewater treatment plants, contributing to environmental pollution.
The Ademe advises choosing products with verified environmental labels such as Ecocert and Nature & Progrès, which ensure lower environmental impact and meet health and environmental standards. These labels are more reliable than brand names, which may falsely suggest eco-friendliness. Mechanical cleaning methods, like using a plunger or drain snake, are preferable to chemical uncloggers like Destop, which can contaminate soil and groundwater. Natural alternatives such as baking soda, white vinegar, and soap can effectively clean surfaces. Wearing gloves during cleaning is recommended to avoid skin contact with irritating substances. Homemade cleaning recipes are available through the Ceseau association, offering safe and eco-friendly solutions for home maintenance.
Health and Environmental Risks of Common Household Cleaners Prompt Calls for Safer Alternatives
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Original sources:
- 🇫🇷Vert



