Recent research suggests that common scented household products may contribute to indoor air pollution levels comparable to, or even exceeding, those of car exhaust. Engineers at Purdue University constructed a miniature home designed to replicate typical living conditions and analyse the effects of everyday activities on air quality. Their findings revealed that products such as air fresheners, wax melts, and cleaning agents release nanoparticles when they interact with ozone, ultimately generating new airborne pollutants that can penetrate the lungs.
Assistant Professor Nusrat Jung noted that while aiming to create a pleasant environment, individuals might inadvertently increase indoor pollution levels. Though the specific health impacts of inhaling these chemicals remain unclear, there are concerns regarding potential respiratory risks. The study highlighted that these fragranced items could produce nanoparticle concentrations that rival those emitted by gas stoves and vehicles.
Additionally, gas cooking can release up to 100 times more particles than car exhaust on busy streets. The researchers aim to further investigate how various household routines, including hair care, influence indoor air quality, ultimately striving to enhance monitoring and regulation of these environments. Professor Brandon Boor emphasised the importance of addressing indoor air quality in building design, as it significantly affects health, advocating for research to lead to practical solutions for healthier living spaces.