We want a sparkling home free from pesky germs. Disinfectant wipes like Clorox and Lysol seem to be the perfect answer – grab, wipe, done. But those convenient wipes may harbor dangers you weren’t expecting. Let’s lift the lid on the hidden risks behind these popular cleaners.
What’s in That Wipe? The Problem with QUATs
Think your wipes just eliminate germs? Think again. The active ingredient doing the dirty work is often a quaternary ammonium compound, or ‘QUAT’. QUATs are effective disinfectants, but studies paint a troubling picture of their impact on our health.
One serious concern is for our lungs. Inhaling QUATs, even from the air after cleaning, has been linked to respiratory issues and even worsening asthma.[1] They’re also worrisome because they can disrupt hormones,[1,2] impacting everything from reproductive health to our immune system.
The Dangers Don’t Disappear
Worse yet, QUATs can linger well after you’ve finished wiping. They’ve been found in household dust, meaning we can be exposed long-term.[3] Alarmingly, they can even appear in breast milk,[4] making you wonder about the effect on babies and children, whose bodies are extra sensitive to toxins.[5]
It’s enough to seriously question whether wiping with these chemicals is worth the risk.
Safer Ways to a Clean Home
Don’t despair! You don’t have to live in filth to protect your health. Often, the best weapon against germs is something you already have: soap and water. This classic combo removes grime and effectively eliminates many types of bacteria and viruses.
Want a bit more disinfecting power? White vinegar is your friend. Diluted with water, it offers natural antimicrobial action without harsh chemicals.[6]
Your Choices Matter
Disinfectant wipes promise an easy solution but at the possible expense of our health. Armed with the facts about QUATs, you can make informed decisions about what you bring into your home. Safer options abound, letting you achieve a clean and healthy space without the worry.
References:
- Mohapatra, Sanjeeb et al. “Quaternary ammonium compounds of emerging concern: Classification, occurrence, fate, toxicity and antimicrobial resistance.” Journal of hazardous materials vol. 445 (2023): 130393. doi:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130393
- Datta, Sandipan et al. “In Vitro Evaluation of Mitochondrial Function and Estrogen Signaling in Cell Lines Exposed to the Antiseptic Cetylpyridinium Chloride.” Environmental health perspectives vol. 125,8 087015. 22 Aug. 2017, doi:10.1289/EHP1404c
- Frantz, Aubrey L.. “Chronic quaternary ammonium compound exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on human health.” Toxicology and Environmental Health Sciences, 1–8. 9 Jun. 2023, doi:10.1007/s13530-023-00173
- Zheng, Guomao et al. “The first detection of quaternary ammonium compounds in breast milk: Implications for early-life exposure.” Journal of exposure science & environmental epidemiology vol. 32,5 (2022): 682-688. doi:10.1038/s41370-022-00439-4
- Carroquino, Maria J. et al. “Environmental Toxicology: Children at Risk.” Environmental Toxicology: Selected Entries from the Encyclopedia of Sustainability Science and Technology 239–291. 4 Dec. 2012, doi:10.1007/978-1-4614-5764-0_11
- Zinn, Marc-Kevin, and Dirk Bockmühl. “Did granny know best? Evaluating the antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral efficacy of acetic acid for home care procedures.” BMC microbiology vol. 20,1 265. 26 Aug. 2020, doi:10.1186/s12866-020-01948-8