6 Dangerous Cleaning Product Mistakes You Might Not Know You're Making

Cleaning products are essential to any cleaning routine, and their ingredients merit close review. Bleach, ammonia, dishwashing liquids and powders, oven cleaners, and drain cleaners can potentially be more dangerous than expected. According to the National Safety Council's analysis of U.S. Consumer Product Safety data, in 2023, over 11,000 injuries related to the use of soap and detergent occurred among children aged 0 to 4 years old. 

Besides the harm caused by ingesting chemical-based cleaners, improper use can also result in skin and respiratory problems. To avoid harmful effects from these products, read on to discover the most common mistakes and key safety precautions to keep in mind when cleaning your home.

1. Using Toxic Products

Always opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly products whenever possible. These more natural alternatives help lower the risk of injury and adverse reactions. "While living completely chemical-free is impossible, reducing exposure to harmful ingredients in products used in the home is essential to preserve your family's health and the planet," says Marilee Nelson, Branch Basics co-founder.

Nelson recommends tools like the EWG Skin Deep [database], which allows you to quickly plug in each ingredient in a cleaning product and get a rating from 1-10 (1 being the least toxic and 10 being the most harmful). She recommends choosing products with all ingredients rated 1-2 on this app or site.

"You can also use resources like the Branch Basics Toss the Toxins Online Course, which provides a step-by-step guide to identifying and replacing toxic products throughout the home. Using truly safe products eliminates many of the hazards of conventional cleaning products," Nelson says.

2. Skipping Reading the Label

"To prioritize safety when using cleaning products in homes, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions on cleaning product labels to avoid misuse," advises Diana Ciechorska, general manager at Park Slope Cleaning.

Every cleaning product comes with specific instructions for safe use. These include warnings about potential hazards, instructions on the correct amount of product to use, and recommendations for protective gear. Failure to follow instructions could reduce the product's effectiveness, damage specific surfaces, and increase potential health risks to humans and pets.

3. Not Ensuring Proper Ventilation

Many cleaning products release fumes and particles that can linger in the air for minutes after use, irritating the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. “Vinegar is a good example of why you need to understand the product you are using. When used correctly, vinegar is a safe cleaning product; however, it contains acetic acid, which can irritate the lungs when inhaled as an aerosol," Nelson says.

To avoid this issue with all cleaning products, always open the windows while cleaning, use fans, and provide good ventilation until the chemical (or vinegar) smell clears. Avoid using cleaning sprays in the presence of someone with asthma or chronic illness and ensure adequate ventilation when using sprays and powders to prevent respiratory issues.

4. Mixing Cleaning Agents

Most people tend to think that mixing cleaning products makes for a deeper, more effective cleaning job. But mixing chemicals is a big no-no. Combining some cleaning agents, such as bleach and ammonia, can create toxic fumes that can have dire consequences when inhaled. It is even possible to mix them without even realizing it. Many cleaning products contain bleach, and several products, such as bathroom, window, and glass cleaners, contain ammonia. The safest cleaning strategy is to use one product at a time. The no-mixing rule also applies to cleaning solutions that contain vinegar.

5. Cleaning Without Protective Gear

"Household cleaning chemical safety starts with personal protection and product awareness and knowledge. Wearing gloves is a must to prevent skin irritation, and consider using masks when handling strong-smelling chemicals to avoid inhalation risks," advises Ciechorska.

Protecting your skin, eyes, and lungs is necessary when using harsh chemicals. Powdered products contain small particulates that can irritate the lungs and eyes. Always wear a mask to avoid inhaling the products and gloves to ensure it doesn’t get on your skin or under your nails. Also wear protective goggles, and if powder comes into contact with your eyes, flush them immediately with water.

6. Storing Items Improperly

Store all cleaning supplies in a cool, dry place that is out of reach of children and pets. "Most people don't realize that even unopened, sealed cleaning products can release toxic VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air, creating a low-level chemical soup in the home," Nelson says. "Consider the strong smell from the grocery store aisle where cleaning and pesticide products are typically found. Those bottles are not only closed but also sealed, yet the emissions fill the air! The same happens in the home, where products are stored in cabinets and under sinks."

To achieve a chemical-free home, even closed products might need to be replaced with natural alternatives. Remember, don’t store chemical-based cleaning products in the same closed area as your food or pantry items.