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After the heavy cleaning the maid did last week, I’ve noticed a strong chemical smell lingering in our living room, especially when we open the curtains. My kids have been complaining of headaches and my partner has had a persistent cough since she cleaned their study area. Could this be from the cleaning products? What should I do to ensure it’s safe for everyone? What can I do to check if these are harmful chemicals and how can I make sure our home is safe again?
Posted by Ravi Tiwari
Asked on January 8, 2026 5:06 pm
0
Absolutely, the strong chemical smell and the symptoms your family is experiencing sound like they could be due to harmful cleaning chemicals. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, it's crucial to ensure that the products used are safe for human exposure, especially given the climate and lifestyle here.

First things first, you should identify what might have caused this issue. Many cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can release toxic fumes into your home. These chemicals include ammonia, bleach, and certain solvents that could irritate eyes, nose, throat, or even cause headaches and respiratory issues.

To determine the exact cause of these symptoms, it would be wise to have a professional indoor air quality inspection done. In Dubai, you can call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for such an evaluation. They offer expert services specifically tailored to local conditions and regulations, ensuring that your home environment is safe.

In the meantime, there are steps you can take to improve indoor air quality and make your living space safer:

1. Ventilation: Open windows whenever possible to let fresh air in and expel stale air with chemicals. Use exhaust fans when showering or cooking to remove moisture and fumes.

2. Air Purifiers: Consider using HEPA-filtered air purifiers to help reduce airborne pollutants, including those from cleaning products.

3. Natural Cleaning Alternatives: Try using natural cleaning agents like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice for your regular chores. They are effective at keeping surfaces clean without releasing harmful chemicals into the air.

4. Monitor Products Used: Check labels of all cleaning products you use to ensure they meet safety standards, especially those with certifications from recognized organizations.

5. Professional Clean-Up: If the smell persists or if there was a significant cleaning event that might have introduced contaminants, consider hiring a professional cleaner who uses eco-friendly and safe products.

6. Regular Checks: After major cleanings, do regular checks for any lingering odors. This will help you catch issues early on before they become problematic.

Remember, safety is paramount in your home. If symptoms persist or worsen, don't hesitate to seek medical advice and consult a professional.

Hope this helps and take care of yourself and your family!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 1:33 pm