Disinfecting wipes are used in most all homes because they are believed to clean surfaces properly and are easy to use. Since COVID-19, there has been a lot of emphasis on hygiene to keep surfaces free from viruses and bacteria. And the wipes can leave a variety of hard surfaces, such as stainless steel, countertops, glass and wood furniture spotless. However, according to studies, they are doing more harm than good.

The most disinfecting wipes are filled with quaternary ammonium compoundsOr QAC, with chlorine-based ingredients that cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even long-term health concerns if you use them repeatedly.

A study published in Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology say that exposure to QAC can lead to increased asthma, reproductive problems, and many other toxic effects. They can also cause gastrointestinal irritation, including mouth or throat pain, nausea, vomiting, infertility, birth defects, and metabolic disruption.

QAC is used in paints, pesticides, hand sanitizers, personal care products, and much more.

How do disinfecting wipes cause health problems?

According to research, QACs have been found in large quantities in the breast milk of mothers who overuse disinfectant products like wipes.

Wipes are usually pre-moistened cloth wipes that are drenched in disinfectant perfume. They also contain preservatives and other substances. Usually packaged in plastic containers with a lid through which the wipe is dispensed, it can also damage the top layer of your skin from constant contact.

In the US, Clorox Free & Clear Wipes and Seventh Generation Multi-Purpose Cleaning Wipes are two common cleaning products on the list of cleaning products that are dangerous to your health. it is important to note that None of these wipes claim to kill germs And viruses but they are marketed only for cutting through grease and grime.

Some wipes also contain Alkyl Dimethyl Ethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride which can cause chemical burns, even though the amount in the wipes is only 0.01-0.1 percent. Some kitchen disinfectant wipes also contain hydrogen peroxide, isopropyl alcohol, or ethanol, along with detergent or alone.

Are kitchen wipes poisonous?,

Experts say that kitchen wipes should never be taken by mouth, chewed or swallowed. Special cleaning wipes, such as bathroom wipes, may be harsher on the mouth or throat than the wipes you use in your kitchen.

Measures to reduce adverse effects

There are a few ways you can minimize adverse effects when using disinfectant wipes:

• Use them only when necessary
• You can clean the surfaces easily with water and non-bacterial soap
• If necessary, you can also use baby wipes, which don’t contain added chemicals, to accomplish the same cleaning goal.
• Proper ventilation, protective gloves, and keeping wipes out of the reach of children can also reduce potential harm when their use is necessary.

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