Disinfectant Overkill: How too Clean may Be Hazardous to Our Health

As stories on the dangers of flu viruses, contaminated foods, and contagious illnesses proliferate in the media, advertisers increasingly try to convince consumers that antimicrobial cleaning products will protect their homes and families from infection. Likewise, manufacturers have capitalized on consumer fears by producing more products that contain antimicrobial chemicals. However, it is unnecessary to disinfect one’s homes to the degree that advertisers and manufacturers would have consumers believe. Antimicrobial cleaning products (also known as disinfectants) are specifically intended to both clean surfaces and kill germs such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. But research has shown that some of the most common antimicrobial chemicals used in cleaners could have serious health consequences, especially for women, cleaning workers, and young children. Also, the overuse of antimicrobials contributes to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which some scientists say could leave the public with fewer tools in the fight against infectious diseases.

The Problem

Powerful antimicrobial chemicals (also known as disinfectants) are increasingly found in household cleaners, from laundry detergent to kitchen cleaners to handy wipes. Yet research has shown that some of the most common antimicrobial chemicals used in cleaners could have serious health consequences. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to potential health impacts from simple irritation of the skin, eyes, and respiratory system to hormone imbalance, immune system impacts, asthma, and potential reduced fertility. The overuse of disinfectant chemicals also contributes to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, more commonly known as “superbugs.” The truth is that in most households, the need for routine disinfection is rare. Scientists agree that soap and water are effective for most routine cleaning jobs, and research has demonstrated that safer alternatives, such as vinegar and borax, have antibacterial properties that may be used in place of harsh chemicals. Also, other steps can be taken to prevent the need to disinfect in the first place.

Recommendations to Reduce Your Use of and Exposure to Disinfectants

Antimicrobial chemicals are effective at killing germs, but because of their associated health risks, they should be used with extreme care. The best advice is to disinfect sparingly using your best judgment.

Go Back to Basics with Soap and Water The surfactants in soap help lift the dirt off surfaces, while a little scrubbing and good rinsing will carry the dirt (and any microbes) away. Using cleaners containing antimicrobial chemicals would actually kill the germs in your house, and although this sounds like a better idea, studies show that there is no demonstrated health advantage to using these types of cleaners.

Article extracted from Women’s Voices for the Earth. View Fact Sheet. View full article.