The home is a place you cultivate and care for in order to provide a secure and safe environment for your family. For that reason, you might be shocked to learn that there are common items within every home that can be toxic. Indeed, items you never even thought to check could be a silent hazard. 

Luckily, this article has the lowdown on six common household items that could be toxic. If you have them in your home, it may be time to switch them out for healthier options: 

  • Cookware

Did you know that non-stick cookware can contain all kinds of toxic chemicals? The problem is that these chemicals can be expelled through the air when you cook, or worse, leach into the food you are preparing. 

Thankfully, you can now find all kinds of safe cookware on the market. Options like ceramic cookware avoid the use of these nasty chemicals, allowing you to cook in the safest way possible for your family. 

  • Air Fresheners & Candles

Air fresheners and candles can contain nasty chemicals that you might want to avoid. Most air fresheners are full of lung irritants and aerosols. Meanwhile, candles made from paraffin wax can be toxic when burnt, and the chemicals that make them smell nice can also be problematic. 

For a lush-smelling home, consider using a natural aromatherapy diffuser with organic essential oils instead – this option is much better for you. 

  • Paint

Paint can contain all kinds of problematic compounds, including formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a chemical that can lead to issues like eye or skin irritation. Long-term exposure can be much more serious, causing changes to lung function and potentially adding to your risk of getting certain cancers, according to some studies. 

To limit your exposure, you should always ventilate when you use household paints, and ideally, work with greener alternatives. 

  • Tupperware

Tupperware and other household plastics can contain something called polypropylene. Polypropylene is believed to be toxic, especially with repeated use and heat exposure. 

Plastic can also contain something called BPA, which has been linked to health risks in pregnant women. It is thought to contribute to your risk of cancer and has even been linked to a worsening of epilepsy symptoms among those with the condition. 

To avoid plastic toxicity, opt for alternatives like beeswax wraps, non-toxic metals, woods, and ceramics. Alternatively, look for signs on the plastics that suggest they are BPA- and polypropylene-free. 

  • Cleaning Supplies

Certain cleaning supplies are known to contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Unfortunately, these can cause lung irritation and headaches. VOCs may even contribute to your risk of cancer if you have prolonged exposure. 

To avoid these issues, stick to natural solutions like white vinegar, lemon, and bicarbonate of soda. Alternatively, buy eco-friendly products that have proven certification and testing. 

  • Insect Repellant

Some insect repellents are useful in the home during mosquito season. However, they also come with their own risks that might not be worth the avoidance of a sting or bite.

Studies have suggested that certain insect repellants can be very toxic, with prolonged exposure causing skin irritation, lung irritation, and even some impact on brain function. 

The best things to use instead are natural solutions, like citronella, insect-repelling plants, and barriers like mosquito nets. 

Give Your Home A Detox Today

Hopefully, you feel a bit more knowledgeable about the products in your home that could be toxic. Being savvy and informed is the first step to making better choices and creating a healthier home for your family moving forward.