New Study Reveals: This Cleaning Product Ingredient Could Be Dangerous To Your Health
Most of us assume that if a cleaning product is sold for home use, it must be harmless. After all, it’s meant to make things cleaner, not cause health problems. But new research is reminding people to look a little closer at the ingredients inside everyday cleaners. One ingredient in particular has raised concerns from experts in recent studies. It’s called perchloroethylene, or PCE, and it’s in more products than you might expect.
What Exactly Is Perchloroethylene?
Perchloroethylene, often shortened to PCE, is a powerful cleaning and degreasing solvent. It’s best known for its long history of being used in dry cleaning, but it’s also used in some heavy-duty household cleaners and degreasers. PCE is effective because it breaks down grease fast and evaporates quickly. But that strength is also what gives experts pause. Exposure can add up quickly, and have a real impact on your health.
Why Experts Are Raising Red Flags Now
Recent studies have linked long-term PCE exposure to some serious health concerns, including impacts on the nervous system and an increased risk of developing cancer. The concern isn’t usually from using the chemical once. The main health concerns come from repeated exposure in enclosed spaces, like kitchens, bathrooms, or other rooms with poor ventilation. When you regularly clean your home with products containing PCE, vapors can linger in the air longer than you realize, especially during colder months when windows stay closed.
Where PCE Might Be Found In Your Home
Many people don’t realize they own products with PCE because it’s rarely highlighted on the front label of cleaners. It may appear in degreasers, spot removers, metal cleaners, or specialty stain products. If a cleaner smells very strong or “chemical,” that can be a clue, though not a guarantee. Checking ingredient lists or safety data sheets is often the only way to know for sure.
Why Ventilation Alone Isn’t Always Enough
Opening a window helps, but it doesn’t fully eliminate the health risk. PCE vapors are heavier than air and can linger at breathing level. That means even short cleaning sessions can result in exposure if you stay in the room for longer. People who clean frequently, especially older adults or those with existing health concerns, may be more affected by PCE. This is why experts recommend cutting down on using products with PCE entirely rather than relying on ventilation to stay safe.
Safer Alternatives That Still Work
The good news is that you don’t need harsh chemicals like PCE to keep a clean home. Many grease-cutting jobs can be handled with dish soap, baking soda, vinegar, or plant-based cleaners designed to be safe for home use. These options may require a bit more time scrubbing or elbow grease, but they dramatically reduce exposure risks. Switching does not mean sacrificing cleanliness. It just means choosing gentler tools.
How To Spot And Avoid PCE Going Forward
Start by reading labels carefully and avoiding products that list perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene as ingredients. If the ingredient list isn’t clear, look up the product online. Many manufacturers now publish detailed safety information for their products on their website. If you’re unsure, play it safe by choosing cleaners labeled as non-toxic or solvent-free. It’s a small habit change that can go a long way towards reducing long-term exposure to harmful chemicals.
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Learning about ingredients like PCE can feel unsettling, especially when you might worry that they’ve been a part of your cleaning routine for a while. But now that you know, you have a ton of options for swapping it out of your cleaning arsenal. You don’t need to panic or throw everything out overnight. Small, thoughtful changes work best. Choosing safer products protects not just your home, but everyone living in it. And that’s what really matters.
Bliss Donahue-Power
