Pexels
Believe it or not, everyday products such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, furniture, and even our food can contain potential toxins. There’s evidence that being exposed to these chemicals on a daily basis could negatively affect our health over time. Here are 12 chemicals hiding in common household items that you may want to avoid.
1. Organophosphate Pesticides
Pexels
According to CNN, organophosphate pesticides are a class of neurotoxic chemicals that are commonly sprayed on crops. Research has found that children exposed to these pesticides through their food are more likely to develop ADHD. Since these chemicals can affect brain development, you may want to avoid them by choosing organic groceries.
2. Diethanolamine
Pexels
Diethanolamine, also known as DEA, is often found in household cleaners and toiletries like soap, body lotion, and hair products. According to the New York Times, DEA has been identified as a possible carcinogen, so watch out for it the next time you’re shopping in the beauty aisle.
3. Formaldehyde
Pexels
Formaldehyde is used as a preservative in cosmetics, certain medications, and cleaning products like dish soap and fabric softener. It also shows up in glue, paint, and some paper products. Like DEA, it has been classified as a potential carcinogen, especially at high levels of exposure. For that reason, the European Union has prohibited its use in cosmetics.
4. Fragrances
Pexels
A recent study showed that scented household products like air fresheners and all-purpose cleaning sprays emit volatile organic compounds into the air. Some of these VOCs (such as acetaldehyde) may be hazardous. Opting for fragrance-free products can help prevent your air from being polluted by toxins.
5. Phthalates
Pixabay
Phthalates are used to make plastic more flexible but also show up in household products like toiletries and wallpaper. These chemicals are believed to be endocrine disruptors, which means they could negatively affect your hormone levels. Avoiding plastic food containers and personal care products that list phthalates as an ingredient can help limit your exposure.
6. PFOA
123rf
PFOA is known as a “forever chemical” because it doesn’t break down easily over time, causing it to stay in your body and build up. Developing high levels of PFOA could lead to negative side effects like thyroid problems, a greater risk of cancer, and cholesterol issues.
PFOA is most commonly used in nonstick cookware, so consider swapping out your Teflon pans for cast iron or stainless steel.
7. Lead
Pixabay
Lead can cause significant damage to the brain, nervous system, and kidneys, especially in children. The CDC says there is no safe level of lead exposure for kids.
Lead can still be found in certain consumer products like jewelry, keychains, pottery, chalk, imported toys, and fishing sinkers. Stanley has also come under fire for using lead during the manufacturing process of its tumblers (though experts say exposure risk is very minimal because the lead is encapsulated). Researching products thoroughly before purchase can help you avoid lead.
8. Mercury
Pixabay
People who are exposed to high levels of mercury may be more likely to develop health problems like heart attacks, high cholesterol, and neurological problems. Mercury can still be found in common household items like antiques, older appliances, and certain thermometers and lightbulbs.
But your main exposure to mercury may be coming from the fish in your diet. Certain types of large ocean fish such as swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel can contain high levels of mercury and are best avoided.
9. Bisphenols
Pexels
You’ve probably heard of a common bisphenol that’s been used in plastic since the 60s, called BPA. Many consumers are concerned about BPA’s potential to disrupt the endocrine system, so manufacturers are starting to phase it out. However, a similar chemical called BPS is being used as an alternative.
Studies have revealed that BPS can have negative effects on fetal development, so it may not be totally safe either. If you want to avoid this class of chemicals, opt for glass food and beverage containers instead of plastic.
10. Flame Retardants
Pexels
Flame retardants are commonly added to furniture, carpets, electronics, and building materials to prevent the spread of fire. However, these chemicals can leach out of your furniture and into the air and dust in your home, potentially causing adverse health effects when you breathe them in.
Flame retardants have been linked to endocrine and thyroid issues, cancer, and reproductive and fetal development problems, but more research is needed. Vacuuming to keep dust levels in your home in check may help reduce your exposure.
11. Lye
Pexels
According to the New York Post, many oven cleaners use lye, which is so corrosive that it can burn your skin and eyes. It can also cause tissue damage and can even be fatal if ingested in large enough quantities.
If you choose to use a lye-based oven cleaner, make sure you wear gloves and ensure proper ventilation. However, there are non-toxic oven cleaners without lye, which may be a better alternative.
12. Mothballs
Pexels
Surprisingly, mothballs can also be harmful per the New York Post. They can contain toxic chemicals like naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which can become a gas when exposed to air and cause health issues. These gases are irritants that bother the eyes and lungs and can also cause symptoms like headaches and dizziness.
Mothballs could even increase your risk of cancer, so you may want to opt for natural alternatives like dried thyme, cloves, or rosemary.
Just Do Your Best
Pixabay
It’s probably impossible to eliminate every potential toxin from your environment, so don’t stress yourself out over it! Simply doing what you can to reduce your exposure will help improve your long-term health, whether that’s eating less swordfish or switching to non-toxic oven cleaner.
Read More
Hidden Cash in Your Closet: 11 Household Items That Are Surprisingly Valuable
4 Healthy Habits That Save Me Money
Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.