Air pollution. Hazardous waste. Pesticides in food. Cellphone radiation. The list of hazards and toxic pollutants that can harm our health seems to grow with almost daily. But what you may not know is some of the biggest dangers are only as far away as your kitchen cabinet, medicine chest, or garage.
“When we buy products, especially everyday personal-care products, we assume they're safe. And it likely doesn't occur to most people that they may be using them improperly, or running risks even if they do follow instructions,” says Jody Rohlena, a senior editor of ShopSmart, published by Consumers Union.
Here’s a list of home products and pollution sources whose risks may surprise you.
Aerosol sprays: Chemicals used to propel sprays, including hair and antiperspirants, can cause lung problems and trigger allergies and asthma. Tip: Swap aerosol hair sprays for pump products. Close your mouth and eyes when you use a spray.
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Household cleaners: Those chemical products you may be using to get your home sparkling clean and healthy may actually be doing just the opposite. A 2009 study by the Environmental Working Group identified 457 air contaminants – 24 linked to serious health concerns, including cancer – in 21 household cleaners. Tip: Always read product labels, follow directions for use, and open a window or run a fan when cleaning. Consider non-toxic homemade cleaning products. To clean glass, mix one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with one quart of water.
Air fresheners: Commercial air fresheners often contain volatile organic compounds and phthalates, some of which are linked to cancer and reproductive problems. Tip: To remove odors and purify the air inside your home, open windows when possible, run your air conditioner or heating system, and consider a filter-based air purifier.
Cosmetics: Women who use months-old mascara, leave their makeup bag in a hot car, or use a little water or saliva to moisten the tip of an eyeliner applicator put themselves at risk for serious eye infections. Preservatives in makeup that keep them free of bacteria can be compromised by water, saliva, heat, and contaminants on hands. Tip: Wash your hands before applying makeup. Replace mascara every two to four months. Discard eye shadow and liners after a year. Store makeup in a cool, dry place.
Contact lenses: Failing to keep your contact lenses and cases clean can put you at risk for potentially blinding bacterial infections. Tip: Wash your hands with soap and dry them before touching lenses. Clean your lens case by dumping the used solution and rinsing it with fresh solution, before allowing it to air dry. Replace the case every three months. Never rinse lenses in water.
Antibacterial products: Researchers have found that triclosan – an antibacterial chemical used in soaps, deodorants, mouthwashes, toothpastes, bedding, clothes, carpets, toys, and trash bags – causes health problems in laboratory tests involving animals. Tip: There is little research to suggest antibacterial products are better than soap and water.
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Radon: Naturally occurring radon gas is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. It can seep into your home from rocks and soil under your home. Tip: Test your house for radon, using an inexpensive ($20-40) monitor. If levels are higher than EPA’s designated safe standard – 2 to 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) – a radon-abatement specialist can usually remedy the situation, usually through a gas-venting system, for between $800 and $2,500.
Combustion gases: Carbon monoxide (CO) and other combustion gases are among the biggest indoor hazards. They can be released by faulty gas stoves, furnaces, and gas generators, as well as wood, kerosene, and propane heaters. Tip: Have your fuel-burning appliances inspected annually. Install CO alarms on each level of your house, including the basement. Change the batteries at least every year, and replace the alarms every five years.
Mouthwash: Some consumers have claimed using mouthwash stained their teeth or affected their sense of taste. The American Dental Association has said the ingredient responsible — cetylpyridinium chloride — is found in many mouthwashes. Tips: If you notice brown spots on your teeth or a change in your sense of taste after using a mouthwash, stop using it. Flossing, brushing, and dental cleaning are all that’s need to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
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