Self-Sufficiency: Natural Household Cleaning. Rachelle Strauss

       Can VOCs harm me?

      Products that are sprayed from aerosol cans or pump sprays usually contain VOCs. Used in this way, VOCs become small particles that are easily inhaled and contribute to increased levels of ground-level ozone. These fumes can cause intoxication, drowsiness, breathing difficulties, asthma attacks, disorientation and headaches. Long-term exposure to some organic solvents can damage the nervous system and may be carcinogenic. Many solvents can be skin and eye irritants; others produce vapours that can be flammable. If you see the term ‘volatile’ on a label, ventilating the area you are working in is crucial to reduce harmful inhalation. Volatile compounds also release vapours slowly while being stored, thus creating toxins in the air of your home on a constant basis.

       How do I know there are VOCs in my home?

      You can usually smell VOCs easily – artificial fragrances contain VOCs – and the strong scents that come from many products such as glass cleaners are VOCs escaping from the product into the air of your home. Ironically, it is often the smell of VOCs that we associate with a ‘fresh smell’ in our homes. We feel certain that our homes are clean if they have this familiar scent. VOCs are also present in plug-ins and spray air fresheners.