Tag

Disinfectants

All articles tagged with #disinfectants

health15 days ago•206 min saved

Clean First, Disinfect Later: The Hidden Dangers of Misusing Household Disinfectants

Experts warn that disinfectants aren’t a substitute for cleaning: dirt and grease shield germs, so surfaces should be scrubbed with soap and water first and disinfectants must remain wet on the surface for 1–10 minutes to be effective. Disinfecting is mainly needed after food preparation or when someone is ill. Overuse or misuse of disinfectants—especially quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs)—can pose health risks (inflammation, immune/reproductive effects) and environmental harm, and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Safer options include soap and water, sanitizers for high-touch items, and less-toxic cleaners like alcohol (70%), hydrogen peroxide, citric/lactic acids; avoid mixing chemicals and always follow label instructions. Dry steam is another chemical-free alternative for killing germs.**

via CNN|

#cleaning #disinfectants #environmental-impact

health20 days ago•207 min saved

Hidden risks in common disinfectants: QACs linked to fertility and neurodevelopment concerns

A CNN Health report highlights that quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), common disinfectants’ active ingredients, may pose health risks beyond cleaning. Animal studies connect QAC exposure to placental inflammation and fertility issues, while human exposure has been detected in blood, breast milk, urine, and dust—often higher in daycare and healthcare settings. Experts urge caution, noting dose and real-world use matter, and suggest reading labels, avoiding unnecessary “antibacterial” products, and opting for safer alternatives (e.g., citric acid, hydrogen peroxide, ethyl alcohol) or simple soap and water when disinfection isn’t needed.

via CNN|

#disinfectants #fertility #health

health2 years ago•1 min saved

Study finds common cleaner ineffective against deadly superbugs

Common hospital cleaners, including bleach and chlorine chemicals, are ineffective in killing the deadly superbug Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), according to a study by the University of Plymouth. The rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally has made these cleaners less effective, posing a threat to human health. The research also found that C. diff spores can survive on personal protective equipment and hospital wear, highlighting the need for improved disinfection protocols in healthcare settings.

via New York Post |

#antibiotic-resistance #clostridioides-difficile #disinfectants

health3 years ago•3 min saved

Overuse of disinfectants linked to health risks, study finds

Disinfectant wipes containing quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are exposing people to dangerous chemicals that are linked to serious health problems, contribute to antimicrobial resistance, pollute the environment, and are not particularly effective against COVID-19. Recent research has linked QACs to infertility, birth defects, metabolic disruption, asthma, skin disorders, and other diseases. The chemicals are persistent and thought to be bioaccumulative, meaning they accumulate in human bodies and the environment. The paper calls on regulatory agencies to provide more clarity around the chemicals, including more research on quats’ health effects, better labeling, and elimination of non-essential uses.

via The Guardian US|

#disinfectants #environmental-pollution #health

health3 years ago•2 min saved

COVID disinfectants raise safety concerns among scientists.

Scientists warn that the increased use of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) in disinfectants during the COVID-19 pandemic is linked to health problems, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental harm. QACs are found in disinfectant solutions, wipes, hand sanitizers, sprays, and foggers, and are also being incorporated into personal care products, textiles, paints, medical instruments, and more. The scientists recommend eliminating unnecessary uses of QACs and requiring full disclosure of QACs in all products to reduce health hazards and environmental harm.

via Phys.org|

#antimicrobial-resistance #covid-19 #disinfectants

health3 years ago•7 min saved

The Dangers of Using Disinfectants for Cleaning.

The use of antimicrobial cleaners increased during the pandemic, but experts warn that repeated inhalation or skin contact with the chemicals used in those products may be harmful over time. The most concerning disinfecting chemicals are quaternary ammonium compounds (Q.A.C.s) and bleach, which have been linked to skin irritation, asthma, and other lung problems. Simple soap and water is sufficient for regular cleaning, and safer alternatives include disinfecting products that use hydrogen peroxide or citric acid. If harsher chemicals are needed, it's important to follow guidelines and use them safely.

via The New York Times|

#bleach #chemical-exposure #cleaning