Does Cleaning Cause Allergies?

Over 50 million Americans suffer from at least one allergy. When we have allergies, our normal reaction is to keep our homes free of all potential irritants, but by doing this we may actually be putting ourselves at risk for further allergies. This is especially true for young children: If they are not exposed to germs and allergens in their early years, their risk of allergies and asthma as they age is increased. Also, cleaning products may trigger allergies and asthma in certain adults.

The Hygiene Hypothesis

This hypothesis basically states that we need to be exposed to germs and allergens to build up an immunity to them, to help protect ourselves against asthma and allergies. This hypothesis does not explain everything, of course, but it does make sense. For example, children in daycare centers are definitely exposed to a variety of germs; they are also 35 percent less likely to develop asthma and allergies later in life.

Your Cleaning Products

Cleaning products may actually harm you. We all know that ammonia can burn your nose when you breathe it in and bleach can cause your eyes to tear up if you use too much. While these products clean effectively, they are strong and toxic chemicals. Certain cleaning products may actually cause allergies and asthma in adults. The biggest culprits for causing respiratory problems in adults, such as wheezing and coughing, are bleach solutions, spray degreasers and air fresheners. If you already have lung problems, these products could make them worse. A recent study shows that any type of spray cleaning product could cause problems in adults with respiratory problems.

It is important to choose cleaning products that are least toxic. If you have respiratory problems, talk to your doctor about the chemicals that you need to avoid. If you do not have problems, avoid developing them by limiting your use of chemicals and using non-toxic products.

What Does the Doctor Order?

This will depend on if you or your child have a pre-existing condition, but if you are all healthy, a little dirt will not hurt. In fact, a little dirt may actually be helpful. So put down the bleach now and then: A sterile home is only necessary if you have no immune system. This does not mean you have to stop cleaning -- cleaning just does not have to be the main focus of your life.

Resources

U.S. Food and Drug Administration: The Hygiene Hypothesis