Why cleaners are at risk

HSE lists cleaning among the occupations with higher rates of work-related asthma and dermatitis, and its COSHH guidance requires employers to assess and control exposure to hazardous cleaning substances. Sprays create fine mists that are easily breathed in. Mopping, vacuuming and emptying bins involve repetitive twisting and lifting, often in a hurry. Many cleaners work alone or outside normal hours, sometimes for several employers.

01Breathing problems from cleaning products

Bleach, ammonia and some disinfectants and sprays can irritate the airways or trigger asthma. Mixing bleach with acids or ammonia-based products releases toxic gases. HSE's occupational asthma guidance stresses reducing exposure early.

What helps

  • Never mix cleaning products, especially bleach with acids or ammonia.
  • Use products at the dilution on the label; stronger is not better.
  • Prefer pouring or wiping over spraying, and keep rooms ventilated.
  • Read the safety data sheet or label for the protection each product needs.

02Skin damage

Wet work and detergents strip the skin's protective layer and can cause contact dermatitis, which the NHS describes as itchy, dry, cracked or blistered skin. Some products can also cause allergy.

What helps

  • Wear suitable gloves for wet work and chemicals, and change them if the inside is wet.
  • Wash and dry hands carefully and use moisturiser after work.
  • Report skin problems early; they are easier to treat in the early stages.
  • Cover cuts before work.

03Back and shoulder strain, slips and lone work

Mopping, vacuuming, lifting buckets and bins and reaching high surfaces strain the back and shoulders. Wet floors cause slips for cleaners and others. HSE's musculoskeletal guidance recommends lighter equipment, adjustable handles and task variety.

What helps

  • Use adjustable, long-handled tools and lightweight vacuums.
  • Fill buckets in place or use wheeled buckets and trolleys; do not overfill bags.
  • Put up wet-floor signs and wear slip-resistant shoes.
  • Use your lone-working check-in system and carry a charged phone.

Weekly checklist for cleaners

  • Check product labels and dilutions before each new job.
  • Wear gloves for all wet work and chemicals.
  • Adjust tool handles to your height.
  • Moisturise hands after every shift.
  • Vary tasks to avoid repeating the same movement for hours.
  • Use your check-in system when working alone.

When to see a professional

  • Cough, wheeze, breathlessness or a blocked runny nose that improves away from work.
  • Itchy, cracked or blistered skin on the hands or arms.
  • Back or shoulder pain that lasts more than a few weeks.
  • Eye irritation from cleaning products that does not settle.

If chemicals splash in the eyes, rinse with clean running water for at least 15 minutes and get medical help. Leave the area and get help if you feel unwell after products have mixed.

Where ONU fits

ONU brings your sleep, activity and recovery trends together, so you can see how early starts, late shifts or second jobs affect your sleep. It does not detect asthma or skin conditions; changes in breathing or skin belong with a doctor.

Try ONU Health today

Common questions

Which cleaning products should never be mixed?

Never mix bleach with acid-based cleaners such as some toilet or limescale products, or with ammonia-based products. Both combinations can release toxic gases.

Can cleaning products cause asthma?

Yes. Some cleaning chemicals, especially sprays, can irritate the airways and cause or worsen asthma. Using less hazardous products and avoiding sprays reduces exposure.

What gloves should cleaners use?

Use gloves suitable for the product, as stated on its safety information. Nitrile gloves are often recommended for many cleaning tasks.

Sources and further reading

Educational information drawn from the public-health sources listed on this page. It is not a diagnosis, a treatment plan or a guarantee that you will avoid an illness or injury. ONU does not diagnose, treat or prevent disease. Speak to a qualified professional about anything that concerns you, and follow the rules of your employer, sport or local health service.