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On average, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors and approximately 1/3 of their lives sleeping. That’s a lot of indoor time.
That’s why it’s important to learn about some of the most common household health hazards.
This is no easy task, especially considering that close to 75,000 chemicals have been manufactured, patented, and injected into our building materials and household supplies. That’s a lot to learn about. The good news is that that out of those 75,000 chemicals, researchers suspect only a few dozen of having a negative impact on the quality of your indoor home environment.
Fortunately, there are affordable and simple ways to reduce exposure to noxious chemicals found in a typical home. Learn more about the most common household toxins, simple ways to alleviate their effects, and where to find sustainable and effective alternatives.
| Common Source of Household Toxins | Potential Hazard | Tips to reduce your exposure |
| Allergens such as dust mites, mold, pollen, and pet dander | Allergy triggers | Use HEPA filters for your air ducts and vacuum cleaner |
| Asbestos | Can lead to lung disease and cancer | Leave undamaged insulation undisturbed |
| Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs) | Can lead to sleep disorders, headaches, and cancer | Move power strips away from your bed or work space; identify and avoid “hot spots” |
| Forced-Air Ducts | Can release allergens | Have cleaned (by certified technician) once a year |
| Gas Furnaces | Can release carbon monoxide or NO2 | Maintain regularly; keep well-ventilated |
| Household Cleaners | Can release airborne toxins | Buy in small quantities; avoid long-term storage; keep out of children’s reach; use nontoxic products |
| Lead Paint | Can cause behavioral problems in children | Clean damaged surfaces and seal |
| Paints & Solvents | Can release airborne toxins | While using, keep areas well-ventilated; opt for low VOC paints |
| Pesticides | Particularly unsafe for children & environment | Switch to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) |
| Radon | 2nd leading cause of lung cancer | Test your home for safe levels |
| Refrigerator Drip Pans | Breeding ground for mold spores | Wash monthly |
| Vinyl Shower Curtains | Releases DEHP which may cause cancer | Switch to cotton or glass stall |
Learn More
Visit the Environmental Protection Agency's website to learn more about toxins that can be found in your home and the environment.
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