We all like to think that we’re cleaning our houses in the most efficient way possible. But if you ever notice once you get home you experience shortness of breath, headaches, or other general feelings of malaise, it may be a culprit in your home.
From the products you use, to the places in your home you don’t show attention to, check out this list of things that may be harming your health.
Lead Paint
Known to cause damage to development, the central nervous system, brain, blood cells and kidneys, lead paint has been a common concern for those who reside in older homes. Houses built before 1978 more than likely contain lead paint, as the laws and restrictions on materials used in construction were not enforced until the 90s. If you live in an older home, especially one that has paint peeling and chipping, be sure to get it inspected for lead.
Air Fresheners
Even though they provide quick fixes for unpleasant smells, these products release toxic levels of pollutants in the air when used in unventilated environments. These chemicals, mainly ethylene-based glycol ethers and terpenes, are regarded by the EPA as terpenes that can react with ozone in the air to form a poisonous combination.Be sure that when you’re using these products you do so in a well ventilated space, and don’t use them as substitute for washing surfaces (or use organic cleaning products).
Mothballs
Used as an insect repellent, most people keep a box of mothballs in their attics, basements, and in their storage containers. Studies on the product, especially its main ingredient paradichlorobenzene, have shown they cause cancer in animals and it’s thought to do the same in humans. Prolonged exposure to the product can damage and destroy red blood cells, and systems of inhaling too much of the product include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Cleaning Products
Many of the products you use to scrub your home clean can cause minor eye irritation, headaches, and breathing problems. Prolonged exposure to the fumes and toxins in the products are known to cause cancer. While some organic cleaners don’t produce the results commercial cleaners do, the key to stay safe while using these products is to wear gloves, open windows, dilute the product, and only use the recommended amount on the label more than is recommended on the label.
Heating and Cooling System
Many people forget about their heating and cooling system, especially when cleaning their home. But the system that heats and cools your home often leaves traces of water in the ducts that become breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Microbes are then released into the air in your home when you turn the system on, and are the culprit of respiratory issues such as asthma, allergies, coughing, and headaches. While it’s difficult for you to properly (and safely) clean these systems on your own, the key is to have these systems professionally cleaned at least once a year.
