Purdue University study links cleaning products to indoor air pollution

Research led by Brendan E. Boor at Purdue University indicates that common cleaning and disinfecting products can significantly degrade indoor air quality. The study, presented at the ACS Fall Symposium, found that fragrances in these products often contain terpenes. When these terpenes react with ozone—released by devices such as HEPA air purifiers, copiers, and UV lamps—they create nanoparticles.

Using a custom-built tiny house to simulate indoor environments, the research team observed that the concentration of these nanoparticles after cleaning was comparable to the air pollution levels found near heavily trafficked roads. Because these particles are invisible and often accompanied by pleasant scents, users may unknowingly inhale significant doses that can enter the lungs and bloodstream. Experts recommend opening windows during cleaning and opting for fragrance-free products to mitigate these risks.