Experts warn common bathroom habit could increase cancer risk

Many people take pride in maintaining a spotless bathroom, making sure to clean theirs regularly. However, this common cleaning habit could be putting your health at risk over a long period of time.

Many individuals take great pride in keeping their bathrooms immaculate, ensuring they clean them on a regular basis. However, this common cleaning habit could be jeopardising your health over an extended period of time.

Some may be surprised to learn that everyday bathroom cleaning products can pose more risks than initially thought. Chemicals such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and VOCs, often found in some cleaners, significantly contribute to indoor air pollution.

This is linked by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to respiratory problems and potentially even cancer in severe cases. By switching to non-toxic alternatives and ensuring proper ventilation, these risks can be reduced, leading to safer cleaning routines.

Bathroom experts from Plumbworld have highlighted the hidden dangers of using certain products in your bathroom. Not all cleaning products contain these chemicals, but some are made with substances such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The EPA states that these substances significantly contribute to indoor air pollution, leading to respiratory issues, headaches, and other long-term health concerns. This risk is particularly worrying in bathrooms, which are enclosed spaces with limited ventilation, allowing these chemicals to remain in the air for longer periods, reports Surrey Live.

Some cleaning products contain preservatives that release traces of formaldehyde to stop microbes from growing. These include quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, bromopol, and glyoxal.

When selecting cleaning agents, it's wise to check the label for any mention of formaldehyde or ingredients that release it. Opt for products that are explicitly free from formaldehyde.

Should you be worried?

Formaldehyde is found in certain disinfectants and air fresheners and is deemed a human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), suggesting it could raise cancer risk with prolonged exposure. Phthalates, commonly found in scented products, can interfere with hormones and are associated with various health issues.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can worsen indoor air quality and lead to lasting respiratory harm. The NCI has stated on its website: "Studies of workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde, such as industrial workers and embalmers, have found that formaldehyde causes myeloid leukemia and rare cancers, including cancers of the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and nasopharynx."

It's key to remember that formaldehyde is a natural byproduct in the human body and can be found in fruits and various foods at harmless levels. It's also present in the environment, so people might encounter minimal amounts of formaldehyde in the air.

The general public could come into contact with formaldehyde through everyday products containing it, but correct usage of these items isn't expected to lead to health issues. Other sources of indoor exposure include smoking, cooking, incense, and certain building materials.

A statement on Gov.uk highlights: "Formaldehyde has been classified as a cancer causing chemical in humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). There is evidence that formaldehyde causes nasal tumours (tumours of the nose) and leukaemia in industrial workers exposed over long periods of time (years).

"However, exposure over short periods of time is unlikely to have the same level of risk."

Advice for a safer cleaning routine

To reduce exposure and promote safer cleaning habits, consider switching to natural, non-toxic cleaning agents or create your own using white vinegar and baking soda, which offer a safe and effective clean without dangerous fumes.

Plumbworld is warning that many people are unaware of the potential dangers hiding in their commonly used bathroom cleaners, and they're offering some top tips for safer scrubbing. The expert advice includes ensuring proper ventilation while cleaning, such as opening windows, turning on exhaust fans, and keeping doors open to enhance airflow.

Short breaks during cleaning sessions are encouraged to reduce exposure to harsh chemicals, along with continued aeration of the space for at least 30 minutes afterwards. Additionally, for added safety, surfaces should be given a final wipe with a damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaning product residue.

A spokesperson from Plumbworld commented, "People often don't realise the hidden dangers that come with common bathroom cleaning products. When chemicals like formaldehyde and VOCs accumulate in enclosed spaces, such as bathrooms, the risks can become significant."

They went on to highlight that, "These substances aren't just present during cleaning - they can linger in the air, turning regular cleaning sessions into potential health hazards. Choosing natural or non-toxic alternatives can greatly reduce these risks."

In pursuit of a healthier cleaning process, Plumbworld suggests turning to natural or non-toxic alternatives that greatly lessen these safety concerns. "Ingredients like white vinegar and baking soda not only clean effectively but do so without releasing harmful fumes. It's important to remember that what we breathe in while cleaning matters as much as what we use on surfaces."

The spokesperson also stressed the importance of ventilation saying, "Ensuring proper ventilation is another essential step that is often overlooked. Opening windows, using fans, and taking breaks while cleaning can help dissipate these chemicals and minimise exposure. Even small adjustments to your routine can contribute to a safer and healthier home environment in the long run."