Home is where you feel safe. Did you know that things you use or encounter frequently can pose a threat to your well-being? Learn about 5 things in your house that could be a danger to your health!
Household Chemicals
Bleach, toilet bowl cleaners, carpet cleaners, and air fresheners are potentially harmful to your health. They contain dangerous chemicals that you should never ingest. Keep these items locked away in cabinets with child-proof locks to protect your kids or pets. Consider using alternative cleaning products that don’t contain harsh chemicals; baking soda or vinegar are great natural cleansers.
Plastic Food Storage Containers
The conversation about chemicals doesn’t stop with cleaning products. Plastic food storage containers are convenient, durable, and easy to clean. However, did you know that frequent usage of plastic food containers can make them emit plastic micro-particles?
Food in plastic containers may absorb harmful chemicals. This applies to your beloved takeout containers and your supply of store-bought containers. Each time you heat the container in the microwave or scratch it with a utensil, your food is at risk of absorbing microplastics. Even plastic containers labeled “BPA-free” can transfer chemicals to your leftovers. Though you adore your plastic packaging, consider making the switch to glass containers. This natural material is sturdy and chemical-free!
Dust
Dust is common just about everywhere, but it’s more than a household disturbance. The particles could cause respiratory or cardiovascular health problems when inhaled. People with chronic allergies are especially at risk of eye irritation, coughing, and sneezing. People with asthma are at risk of asthma attacks.
Avoid allowing dust to settle. Keep desks, shelves, ceiling fans, and floors as clean as possible. Continuous cleaning will reduce negative health consequences from dusty spaces.
Insulation
Insulation may not seem like a threat because it hides behind the drywall. However, one area of the house that could be a danger to your health is the attic. The specific danger is the risk of vermiculite insulation.
Not all forms of insulation are harmful, but vermiculite insulation contains asbestos. If the insulation is out in the open or you disturb the material, you risk inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers. Contact a professional asbestos removal company to test the insulation and remove the material. Then, you can replace the attic insulation with a safer alternative, such as spray foam.
Outdoor Equipment
Your shed or garage is likely stuffed full of rakes, pesticides, power tools, and lawn care devices. Lock up all outdoor equipment in a safe location, such as a locker. You wouldn’t want to injure yourself or put your children in danger due to careless storage.
