Regular bathroom habit linked to increased cancer risk experts warn

Many people take pride in maintaining a spotless bathroom, making sure to clean theirs regularly. However, this common cleaning habit could be putting your health at risk over a long period of time.

Some might be unaware that everyday bathroom cleaning products may pose more risks than they realise. Chemicals like formaldehyde, phthalates, and VOCs, often found in common cleaners, contribute significantly to indoor air pollution, which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) links to respiratory issues and potentially even cancer in severe cases.

Switching to non-toxic alternatives and ensuring proper ventilation can mitigate these risks, leading to safer cleaning routines. Bathrooms experts, Plumbworld, have revealed the hidden dangers of using certain products in your bathroom.

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Hidden danger in your bathroom

While not all cleaning products contain it, there are some made with chemicals such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). According to the EPA, these substances contribute significantly to indoor air pollution, leading to respiratory issues, headaches, and other long-term health concerns. The risk is particularly concerning in bathrooms, which are enclosed spaces with limited ventilation that allow these chemicals to linger in the air longer.

Some cleaning products use preservatives that release small amounts of formaldehyde to prevent microbes from growing. These preservatives include quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, bromopol, and glyoxal.

When choosing cleaning products, you can check the label for any mention of formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing ingredients. Look for products that clearly indicate the absence of formaldehyde.

Should I be concerned?

Formaldehyde, a known component in some disinfectants and air fresheners, is classified by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as a human carcinogen with the potential to increase cancer risk upon prolonged exposure. Phthalates, which are often used in fragranced products, can disrupt hormones and have been linked to various health concerns. VOCs further exacerbate indoor air pollution and can cause long-term respiratory damage.

A statement on NCI's website reads: "Studies of workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde, such as industrial workers and embalmers, have found that formaldehyde causes myeloid leukemia and rare cancers, including cancers of the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and nasopharynx."

It is important to note that formaldehyde is produced naturally in small amounts in the human body. It also occurs naturally in fruits and some foods, at levels unlikely to cause harm. As formaldehyde may also be present naturally in the environment, individuals may come into contact with very low levels of formaldehyde in air.

The general public may be exposed to formaldehyde from contact with consumer products that contain it. Low level exposure from the correct use of these products would not be expected to cause adverse health effects. Other indoor air sources of exposure to formaldehyde include tobacco smoking, cooking, incense burning and building materials.

A statement on Gov.uk reads: "Formaldehyde has been classified as a cancer causing chemical in humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). There is evidence that formaldehyde causes nasal tumours (tumours of the nose) and leukaemia in industrial workers exposed over long periods of time (years).

"However, exposure over short periods of time is unlikely to have the same level of risk."

Advice for a safer cleaning routine

To minimise exposure, switch to natural, non-toxic cleaning products or make your own with white vinegar and baking soda. These alternatives clean effectively without harmful fumes.

If you use traditional cleaners, ensure proper ventilation by opening windows, turning on exhaust fans, and leaving the door ajar to promote airflow. Take short breaks while cleaning to avoid prolonged exposure, and continue ventilating the space for 30 minutes afterwards.

For extra safety, wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth after cleaning to remove any remaining product residue. These simple steps can help maintain a cleaner, healthier bathroom environment.

A spokesperson from Plumbworld added: "People often don’t realise the hidden dangers that come with common bathroom cleaning products. When chemicals like formaldehyde and VOCs accumulate in enclosed spaces, such as bathrooms, the risks can become significant.

"These substances aren’t just present during cleaning - they can linger in the air, turning regular cleaning sessions into potential health hazards. Choosing natural or non-toxic alternatives can greatly reduce these risks.

"Ingredients like white vinegar and baking soda not only clean effectively but do so without releasing harmful fumes. It’s important to remember that what we breathe in while cleaning matters as much as what we use on surfaces.

"Ensuring proper ventilation is another essential step that is often overlooked. Opening windows, using fans, and taking breaks while cleaning can help dissipate these chemicals and minimise exposure. Even small adjustments to your routine can contribute to a safer and healthier home environment in the long run."