Spring Festival Deep Cleaning Health Risks: From Mold Infections to Cleaning Product Poisoning

Chinese New Year is approaching, and thorough cleaning has become a necessary task for many families. However, during the cleaning process, numerous hidden health risks can be present. Recently, a 6-year-old girl in Zhengzhou developed a persistent fever after cleaning an old house with her family. Hospital examinations revealed multiple “cavities” in her brain caused by fungal erosion, with the culprit being Aspergillus flavus from moldy dust in the old house. This is not an isolated case; similar fungal infection incidents are occurring frequently. At the same time, many people face another risk during cleaning—chemical poisoning caused by improper mixing of cleaning agents.

The Serious Threat of Fungi

Aspergillus flavus is a type of mold belonging to the genus Aspergillus, which is widely found in nature. In China, the most common fungal infections involve Aspergillus flavus, followed by Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus terreus. These fungi often hide unnoticed in corners—such as wall edges, kitchen stoves, inside refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, and in long-unused books and carpets.

While most people with normal immune function can clear these fungi on their own after exposure, an overgrowth or weakened immunity can lead to infection. In January last year, Mr. Zhang from Yangzhou, Jiangsu, began a thorough cleaning to prepare for the Spring Festival. He accidentally inhaled a large amount of dust and mold spores, triggering an asthma attack. Medical examinations showed lung infection, diagnosed as pulmonary aspergillosis. Similarly, in April last year, a woman in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, found mold on her wardrobe and started cleaning without proper protection, resulting in aspergillus infection.

Li Tong, chief physician of the Infectious Disease Department at Yaoan Hospital in Beijing, pointed out that for immunocompromised individuals, inhaling these fungi can cause lung lesions and even aspergillosis pneumonia. Since this is a respiratory infection, once fungi enter the bloodstream, they can spread throughout the body. The brain, with its rich blood supply, is especially vulnerable to fungal invasion.

Multiple Health Risks from Mold

The dangers of mold extend far beyond lung infections. Different types of mold can threaten various body systems:

Respiratory Risks: Aspergillus niger often grows around showers and sinks, easily affecting children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, leading to respiratory diseases. Fusarium can attach to walls or float in the air, potentially triggering asthma. Aspergillus flavus has been listed by the World Health Organization as a key pathogenic fungus, and invasive aspergillosis can be life-threatening.

Allergic Reactions: Mold is a significant allergen. Its hyphal structures produce大量孢子 (large quantities of spores). These tiny spores easily disperse in the air, causing symptoms like red, itchy eyes and skin, nasal congestion, and coughing. According to statistics from Beijing Tongren Hospital, mold is a major cause of allergic rhinitis, especially during the summer when activity levels increase.

Carcinogenic Risks: Some molds have potential carcinogenic effects. For example, Aspergillus flavus secretes aflatoxins, which are confirmed carcinogens.

Gastrointestinal Infections: Fungi like Candida can cause esophagitis and gastroenteritis.

Proper Cleaning Methods During Spring Festival

To effectively eliminate mold without harming yourself, scientific cleaning methods should be employed. Mold can be killed through:

• High-temperature disinfection (water above 80°C, sunlight exposure)
• Using disinfectants containing chlorine, such as 84 disinfectant, according to instructions

For mold on walls, if mold spots are not severe, they can be wiped off with a cloth. For better results, a bleach spray can be used (but avoid on colored walls). Mold on wallpaper should not be cleaned with water; instead, lightly wipe with a cloth dampened with alcohol.

Protection during cleaning is crucial. Wear gloves and masks, and keep windows open to significantly reduce inhalation of mold spores.

The Deadly Risks of Mixing Cleaning Products

During Spring Festival cleaning, many people use multiple cleaning products. A common misconception is that mixing different cleaners enhances cleaning effectiveness. In reality, mixing cleaning agents can be extremely dangerous, potentially releasing toxic gases.

• Combining toilet bowl cleaner with 84 disinfectant produces chlorine gas, a toxic and irritating substance that can cause nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and diarrhea.
• Mixing 84 disinfectant with laundry detergent can cause neutralization reactions, reducing cleaning efficacy and possibly generating harmful substances.
• Mixing dish soap with toilet bowl cleaner is also dangerous. Dish soap is alkaline, while toilet cleaners are acidic; mixing them causes neutralization, diminishing cleaning power and potentially releasing irritants.

Safety Tips for Spring Festival Cleaning

To ensure a clean home while protecting your health, follow these guidelines:

• Use safe cleaning products: Choose single-purpose cleaners and avoid mixing different products. Select appropriate products based on the stain type, but never combine multiple cleaners.
• Personal protective measures: Wear gloves to prevent direct contact with mold and chemicals. Use masks to avoid inhaling fumes and spores. Wear goggles to protect your eyes from splashes.
• Maintain good ventilation: Keep windows open during cleaning to allow harmful substances to dissipate quickly.
• Follow product instructions: Use cleaning agents at recommended concentrations and according to instructions. Do not increase concentrations or mix products arbitrarily.

Spring cleaning is vital for family hygiene, but health and safety must come first. Only by adopting proper protective measures, choosing safe products, and avoiding dangerous mixing can you enjoy a clean home while safeguarding your family’s health.