Can indoor VOCs from paint, furniture, and cleaners affect your white blood cell count?

What's actually in it

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases released from paint, new furniture, flooring, cleaning products, and air fresheners. Common indoor VOCs include formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene. You breathe them in all day without noticing, and levels are usually higher indoors than outdoors.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Toxics measured indoor VOC exposure in Korean adults and compared it to their white blood cell counts. The researchers found that higher VOC exposure was linked to changes in white blood cell levels, a sign that the body's immune system is reacting to the chemical exposure.

Abnormal white blood cell counts can indicate chronic low-grade inflammation, which over time raises the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and immune problems. The effects were modified by smoking status, with non-smokers showing clearer patterns.

Improve your indoor air by opening windows regularly, choosing low-VOC or zero-VOC paints and finishes, and skipping air fresheners and scented candles. Let new furniture off-gas in a well-ventilated area before bringing it into living spaces.