When it comes to cleaning product efficacy and the science behind indoor air quality, Allergy Standards Ltd (ASL) is the name that experts turn to for authoritative insights.
Recently, our Science Lead, Dr. Gráinne Cunniffe, contributed her expertise to an article in The Family Handyman, helping consumers understand the dangers of mixing certain cleaning products. The article highlights how common household cleaning mistakes can lead to harmful chemical reactions, generating toxic fumes that pose a serious risk to respiratory health. From the dangers of combining bleach with ammonia to the unexpected risks of mixing hydrogen peroxide and vinegar, Dr. Cunniffe’s expert commentary ensures that consumers are equipped with the knowledge to clean effectively.
This recognition highlights ASL’s leadership in the field of cleaning product standards. As the scientific standards partner behind the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program, we set rigorous criteria for cleaning products, ensuring they contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Our expertise is not just about avoiding harmful chemical reactions—it extends to verifying that certified products are scientifically tested to reduce allergens and irritants, supporting better indoor air quality (IAQ) for all.
How Cleaning Products Affect Indoor Air Quality
Cleaning products can impact IAQ in two main ways: through the removal or redistribution of allergens and through the release of chemicals, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Allergen Removal: Cleaning products play a crucial role in removing allergens from surfaces like countertops, floors, and fabrics. Effective products capture and remove allergens without sending them back into the air.
Chemical Emissions: Many cleaning products release VOCs into the air, which can contribute to poor indoor air quality. VOCs are chemicals that easily become gases and can lead to both short and long-term health effects.
ASL’s role in shaping the standards for cleaning products means that when industry leaders, media, and consumers need reliable information, they come to us. Whether it’s major publications seeking expert commentary or manufacturers striving for certification, ASL continues to set the benchmark for high-performance, science-backed cleaning solutions.
To learn more about how our Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program ensures effective cleaning products, click here
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