Indoor Air Pollution During Pregnancy Raises Autism Risk
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/6/2026
Pregnant women exposed to indoor air pollution have babies with a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder. It's not just outdoor smog. The air inside your home matters too.
What the Study Found
A 2026 study on maternal air pollution exposure found that both indoor and outdoor air pollution during pregnancy increases the offspring's risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Indoor sources include cooking fumes, cleaning products, scented candles, and off-gassing from furniture and building materials.
The study highlights that indoor air quality during pregnancy is just as important as outdoor air quality, and maybe more so since pregnant women spend most of their time indoors.
What You Can Do
Ventilate your home. Use a HEPA air purifier. Skip scented candles and air fresheners. Use non-toxic cleaning products. Avoid new furniture and carpet off-gassing during pregnancy (or air them out thoroughly first).
Browse our non-toxic baby products for pregnancy-safe options.
Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.