Toxic Chemicals Found In Detergents, Air Fresheners

Did you know that manufacturers are not required to list the ingredients used in laundry products and air fresheners sold in the US? A new study from the University of Washington analyzed the chemical contents of top-selling detergents and air fresheners and found staggering amounts of toxic and volatile compounds which were not listed on any of the product labels. For example, one popular plug-in air freshener contained more than 20 unlisted volatile organic compounds, seven of which are regulated as toxic or hazardous under US laws. “Fragrance chemicals are of particular interest because of the potential for involuntary exposure,” said study leader Anne Steinemann, a UW professor of civil and environmental engineering. Her previous studies have showed that 20% of the population reported adverse health effects from air fresheners, and 10% complained of adverse effects from laundry product scents vented to the outdoors. These complaints doubled among people with asthma. Professor Steinemann hopes her research will raise public awareness and reduce exposures to potentially hazardous chemicals. In the meantime she recommends the use of scent-free consumer products.