Scented cleaning products may release harmful nanoparticles, study warns

Researchers at Purdue University have found that cleaning products scented with essential or synthetic oils may pose a risk to indoor air quality and human health.

The team explained that terpenes, the compounds responsible for these fragrances, react with ozone indoors to form fine nanoparticles capable of penetrating lung tissue and entering the bloodstream.

Lead researcher Brandon Boor noted that while cleaning removes germs from surfaces, it can also create invisible air pollution. He pointed out that the respiratory dose of these nanoparticles can be similar to, or even greater than, what a person might inhale near a busy road.

The team conducted experiments in a "miniature laboratory home," where results showed that the products released billions of nanoparticles (ranging from 1 to 30 nanometers in diameter) within minutes. These particles are too small to be detected by most air quality monitors, exposing people to them unknowingly.

The study highlighted that the danger of these particles lies in their ability to reach deep lung tissue. Other research has linked excessive exposure to limonene, a common terpene, to conditions that can precede heart disease and diabetes.

Boor emphasized that although terpenes are naturally found in pine, thyme, and lavender scents, their concentrations in cleaning products can be dozens of times higher than what people would encounter in nature.

He warned that air may seem clean and smell pleasant while actually being polluted with invisible particles. Boor recommended using unscented cleaning products, ventilating rooms during cleaning, and avoiding ozone-generating devices.

The study's findings were presented at the American Chemical Society (ACS) Fall Meeting, held from August 23 to 27.