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Cleaning a surface doesnt actually leave it clean, new research suggests
New research suggests that, despite popular belief, cleaning a surface does not actually leave it spick and span.
Hundreds of years ago, soap was made from ashes and animal fat, and rugs and clothing were beaten to death to remove dirt. While the science behind cleaning has clearly come a long way, there is still so much we apparently dont know.
Cleaning products leave a film on the surface
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has cracked down on cleaning. We wash our hands more and wipe down surfaces more, and yet, new studies suggest that isnt enough.
Reporting in ACS ES&T Air, researchers identified residues left by commercial cleaning products that could impact air quality and overall health.
By using a surface-indoor solvent extractor, they were able to remove films from supposedly clean surfaces across the lab and University. This gave them a variety of compounds to further analyze. Through carefully planned experiments, the scientists discovered that the films left on surfaces were more complex than initially thought.
While each film was different, they all contained semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) that could become airborne and directly impact air quality.
They further identified the presence of what they called lower volatility surfactants, which are found in everyday soaps.
What does this mean?
Because of their findings, the scientists stated that more compounds could be deposited onto surfaces than previously believed. They also suggested that further research needs to be conducted on indoor air quality and its connection to cleaning liquids.
So, next time youre scrubbing away and looking at the freshly varnished surface, just know that its still not clean!
