A large-scale European study has revealed a surprising link between regular household cleaning and long-term lung damage, especially among women. Conducted over 20 years and published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the research followed more than 6,000 participants from 22 centers across nine countries.[1]
The study found that women who cleaned their homes regularly showed a faster decline in lung function compared to those who did not clean frequently. Researchers suggest that inhaling chemical particles from commonly used cleaning products may be as harmful to the lungs as smoking 20 cigarettes a day over several years.
According to the study, women who cleaned their homes or worked as professional cleaners experienced a significant reduction in lung function over time. The forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁) and the forced vital capacity (FVC)—two important measures of lung health—declined more rapidly in these women than in those who did not clean regularly.[1]
The researchers noted that the decline in lung function among women who cleaned was comparable to the decline seen in long-term smokers. A systematic review found that professional cleaners had a 50% higher risk of asthma and a 43% higher risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) than non-cleaners.[2]
This suggests that regular exposure to chemical cleaning agents may contribute to chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, or even long-term obstructive lung disease.
The study points toward chemical irritants present in cleaning sprays, bleach, and other disinfectants as the likely culprits. When these chemicals are sprayed, they release tiny particles and fumes that can inflame and damage the airways over time.[3]
Repeated exposure to such irritants can lead to persistent coughing, wheezing, and reduced lung capacity. Unlike occupational hazards in factories or laboratories, these risks often go unnoticed because household cleaning is considered a routine and safe activity.
The comparison between cleaning and smoking does not mean that picking up a mop is as instantly dangerous as lighting a cigarette. However, the long-term cumulative effect on the lungs can be similar. The study estimated that women who cleaned their homes regularly for decades suffered a lung function loss equivalent to smoking roughly 20 cigarettes a day during the same period.[1,4]
This comparison highlights how chemical exposure in seemingly harmless daily chores can slowly contribute to respiratory decline.
Experts recommend several simple ways to protect lung health without giving up cleanliness.
Ventilate rooms while cleaning to reduce inhalation of chemical fumes.
Use natural alternatives, such as vinegar, baking soda, or lemon-based cleaners.
Avoid aerosol sprays and switch to liquid or wipe-based products.
Wear gloves and masks when using harsh chemicals.
Limit unnecessary disinfection, as overuse of strong cleaning agents can be more harmful than helpful.
By making small changes, individuals can maintain a clean home while reducing the risk of chronic lung irritation and long-term respiratory harm.
While maintaining a clean home is important, these findings remind us that cleaning products can affect lung health over time. The good news is that simple preventive measures, like proper ventilation, safer cleaning products, and protective gear, can significantly reduce this risk. Awareness and small adjustments can help keep both your home and your lungs healthy for years to come.
Svanes Ø, Bertelsen RJ, Lygre SHL, Carsin AE, Antó JM, Forsberg B, García-García JM, Gullón JA, Heinrich J, Holm M, Kogevinas M, Urrutia I, Leynaert B, Moratalla JM, Le Moual N, Lytras T, Norbäck D, Nowak D, Olivieri M, Pin I, Probst-Hensch N, Schlünssen V, Sigsgaard T, Skorge TD, Villani S, Jarvis D, Zock JP, Svanes C. Cleaning at Home and at Work in Relation to Lung Function Decline and Airway Obstruction. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2018 May 1;197(9):1157-1163. doi: 10.1164/rccm.201706-1311OC. PMID: 29451393.
Archangelidi O, Sathiyajit S, Consonni D, Jarvis D, De Matteis S. Cleaning products and respiratory health outcomes in occupational cleaners: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Occup Environ Med. 2020 Nov 24:oemed-2020-106776. doi: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106776. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33234692.
Vizcaya D, Mirabelli MC, Gimeno D, Antó JM, Delclos GL, Rivera M, Orriols R, Arjona L, Burgos F, Zock JP. Cleaning products and short-term respiratory effects among female cleaners with asthma. Occup Environ Med. 2015 Nov;72(11):757-63. doi: 10.1136/oemed-2013-102046. Epub 2015 Apr 23. PMID: 25907212; PMCID: PMC8856568.
“20-Year Study Finds Cleaning Products Can Damage Lungs as Much as Smoking.” The Revolution Blog.
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