Chemist Andrei Dorokhov, associate professor at the Russian Technical University MIREA, reported that chlorine-based toilet and bathroom cleaning products remain the most widespread and used.
According to him, the reason for their widespread use is due to the high chemical effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite, the main active ingredient in these products.
He says: “When sodium hypochlorite is dissolved in water, it forms compounds that kill microorganisms and break down organic pollutants. Thanks to this, it removes pollutants, eliminates bacteria, viruses, and mold, and helps get rid of unpleasant odors. Therefore, its use remains widespread in everyday life and in places that require increased health standards.”
However, this high chemical activity of the compound also poses a potential risk to human health, because during cleaning, some of the active chlorine is released into the air as volatile compounds. Their concentration can rise rapidly in a small, poorly ventilated bathroom, and these substances irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and respiratory system, causing watery eyes, sore throat, coughing, and shortness of breath. People with asthma, chronic lung diseases, and allergies are more susceptible to these effects.
He emphasizes: "The most dangerous situations arise when different cleaning products are mixed. For example, when a product containing chlorine is mixed with an acid descaling or rust remover, a chemical reaction occurs that releases chlorine. Inhaling these compounds causes irritation to the eyes and respiratory system, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Mixing bleach with products containing ammonia is equally dangerous, because in this case, chloramines are formed, which are toxic compounds that also negatively affect the respiratory system."
According to him, many people believe that a strong chlorine smell indicates effective cleaning. However, in reality, the strong smell indicates a high level of volatile compounds in the air, not effective disinfection. Using a large amount of the product does not make the surface cleaner; rather, it increases stress on the respiratory system.
He says: "When using products containing chlorine, it is necessary to follow the manufacturer's instructions, wear gloves, and ensure good ventilation. After treating surfaces, it is advisable to rinse them with water to remove any residue of the product."
