You mix bleach and ammonia
The golden rule of cleaning (and poison prevention): Never mix cleaners with chlorine bleach and those with ammonia together. “Mixing bleach and ammonia can lead to the formation of chloramine vapor, which is toxic if inhaled,” says Fleming. Cleaning expert Melissa Maker, founder of Canadian cleaning service Clean My Space, advises using oxygen bleach as a non-toxic option when a job calls for disinfecting. “I don’t like chlorine bleach in my home, which is why I recommend oxygen bleach,” she says.
You’re not airing out enough
Because studies have shown cleaning is linked to exposures that cause a decline in lung function, reduce toxic particles and fumes by circulating the air in your house during the task. “Keep the inside of your home well-ventilated while cleaning and dusting,” Geller says. “Open windows—and even doors—and run the central air system or an exhaust fan.” This goes for cleaning in general, not just when you’re dusting. In addition, try bringing your cleaning into the outdoors. “Airing things out outside is fantastic: Sunlight, or UV rays, act as an antibacterial so it can help kill bacteria,” says Maker. For example, air out winter blankets on a clothesline to help get rid of dust mites, and shake out throw rugs to rid them of dust—vacuuming them can be difficult. Here are the best cleaning products for people with allergies.