By Joe Heimlich, Ohio State University Extension Environmental Specialist
Spring cleaning is a rite of spring in many households. The tradition began in cold climates where a home's windows and doors were closed for the winter and the coal or wood furnace dust generated inside and dirt carried in from the outside were removed in a thorough cleaning once warmer weather arrived.
Although less driven by necessity, it is still a tradition in many of today's homes to do a serious spring cleaning.
Current cleaning supplies make this time-honored task less difficult and time consuming but can pose some potential problems. Spring cleaners should take a few moments to read the labels of the cleansers they use.
People should observe the cautions on labels and look for key words. "Wear gloves" suggests a corrosive hazard, and "harmful if swallowed" usually indicates a toxic material.
Whatever cleaning supplies are used, it is always advisable to ensure good ventilation. "Clean" does not have a color or scent. Perfumes, fragrances and dyes are added to cleaning supplies to satisfy the belief that lemon and pine or blue and green mean clean. But, they also alert the user about the quantity of cleanser being used -- too dark a color or too strong a smell means too much. If the person cleaning is getting dizzy or a headache, there is inadequate ventilation. The room should be aired between cleansers.
Another rule to remember is don't mix cleansers. Few people intentionally mix them, but can do it inadvertently by using two different cleansers to clean close surfaces -- a toilet bowl and sink for example. The air vapors from the two cleaners can cause problems when combined. Spring cleaners should read labels and know which products to avoid mixing.
Finally, directions on use should be followed. More does not mean cleaner or easier. Larger quantities usually leave more cleanser residue on surfaces. When exposed to built up residue, some people could have allergic reactions or headaches, and long term contact could cause other health problems.
The ultimate rule people should follow with cleaning supplies is buy what you need, follow the directions, use it all and dispose of containers properly.
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