Indoor Air Quality Resulting from Increased Usage of Household Cleaning Products during COVID-19

Abstract:

During the time of the novel coronavirus, many people have been spending more time indoors, while increasing the use of household cleaning products to maintain sanitation. These products contain and/or emit various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including chlorinated species, terpenes and alcohols that could cause adverse health effects. This study simulated and measured the use of general household cleaners containing bleach, alcohol or other agents in campus library study rooms, office rooms, classrooms and laboratories. The samples were collected before, during and after cleaning using sorbent tubes and analyzed using thermal desorption - gas chromatography - mass spectrometry. Concentrations of several VOCs and their implications for human health will be explored.