You may have a bad day in the office, but once you reach home you enter a safe and comforting space where you can be at peace, unwind, and relax. But, what if we told you that it may not be as safe as you think?
While many of us enjoy buying household products that can help make our space look cleaner, organised and make things more convenient, some everyday items lurking in our cabinets and closets could be harmful to our health.
Dr P Venkata Krishnan, senior consultant, Internal Medicine at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram says, “People need to be educated about the dangers of toxic household items and encourage them to make safer choices for their health and the environment.”
6 common but often overlooked toxic items found in the average household
Dr Krishnan lists some commonly found toxic items in households, along with safer alternatives or ways to mitigate exposure to these toxins. These are:
Air fresheners
They emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the respiratory system and aggravate asthma. Prefer to use natural alternatives like essential oils or simply ventilating your home.
Non-stick cookware
When overheated, the coating releases toxic fumes that have perfluorinated compounds (PFCs). These are linked to health issues like cancer and organ damage. Use ceramic, stainless steel, or cast iron cookware as safer alternatives.
Cleaning products
Many of them contain harsh chemicals like ammonia and bleach, which can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, and may lead to long-term health problems with prolonged exposure. Make your own cleaners using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, or select eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products.
Practice integrated pest management techniques, like sealing cracks and removing food sources. (So
Pesticides
They contain harmful chemicals that can lead to headaches, dizziness, and even neurological damage with excessive exposure. Practice integrated pest management techniques, like sealing cracks and removing food sources, or opt for natural pest control methods like diatomaceous earth or beneficial insects.
Plastic food containers
Some plastics contain bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates, which can leach into food, disrupting hormones and potentially causing developmental issues. Use glass or stainless steel containers for food storage to avoid leaching of harmful chemicals.
Dryer sheets
They release toxic chemicals like benzyl acetate and chloroform, which can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate asthma symptoms. Instead use wool dryer balls or simply skip them altogether to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals while doing laundry.
Some signs or symptoms that may indicate exposure to common household toxins
Dr Krishnan cautions that one must visit a medical professional if they believe that they have been exposed to harmful toxins from household items.
Some common signs or symptoms of exposure to common household toxins vary depending on the specific substance, he says, but typically include:
*Respiratory issues: Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or irritation of the throat or nasal passages.
*Skin irritation: Rashes, itching, or redness on the skin.
*Eye irritation: Redness, watering, or burning sensation in the eyes.
*Headaches or dizziness.
*Nausea or vomiting.
*Fatigue or weakness.
*Changes in behaviour or mood.
