Cleaning products are necessary for maintaining a hygienic home but for those with allergies, they may cause irritation. Understanding these products can help you make safer choices for your health and help avoid allergic irritations and reactions.
Common Allergens in Cleaning Products
Several ingredients commonly found in household cleaners, or even the cleaning solution itself, can cause allergic reactions and irritate asthma symptoms, including:
- Fragrances
- Dyes
- Surfactants
- Preservatives
- Bleach
Symptoms of Cleaning Product Allergies
If you experience any of the following symptoms after using a cleaning product, it may be an allergic reaction:
- Sneezing or coughing
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Skin rashes or hives
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Tips for Choosing Safer Cleaning Products
To minimize the risk of allergies, consider the following tips when selecting cleaning products:
- Read labels carefully: Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic or fragrance-free.
- Choose natural alternatives: According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, mixing your own cleaning solution can be an easy way to avoid allergic irritation. Mix two cups of vinegar, two cups of hot water, one-half cup of salt and two cups of borax and apply to the area that needs to be cleaned, leaving it to sit for 30 minutes. Apply again, scrub and rinse well with water.
- Test new products: Patch test new cleaners on a small area of skin before widespread use.
- Ventilate your space: Always use cleaners in well-ventilated areas to reduce inhalation of potentially harmful fumes.
Awareness of the potential allergens in cleaning products can help reduce allergic reactions by avoiding them. Choose safer alternatives and read labels. If you need assistance identifying allergens, consider scheduling an allergy test with an ENT.
We can assist with identifying potential allergens that affect you and create a guided treatment plan. To learn more, contact Spartanburg | Greer ENT & Allergy to set up an appointment.
