Store shelves are stuffed with products that claim to make your home a better place, cleaner, brighter, and germ free. But most of the things you buy to help around the house could actually do more harm than good. Here is a list of four products to avoid for a healthier home, and some environmentally friendlier alternatives.
Oven Cleaner
Inhaling the corrosive chemicals in this product can cause breathing difficulties, swelling of the throat, burning in the nose or eyes, even vomiting and abdominal pain. Rather than caustic cleaners, try non-toxic options to get your oven sparkling. For burnt-on messes, sprinkle baking soda on the spill and spritz with water, leave it overnight and sponge off in the morning. For stubborn spills, use baking soda with white vinegar, and let sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing.
Nonstick Pans
Coated with a synthetic polymer known as polytetrafluoroetheylene (PTFE), Teflon cookware has been shown to produce toxic fumes when used at high temperatures. You don’t need to toss out all your old cookware, but do use it wisely. Don’t preheat at high temperatures and cook using the lowest setting possible. Don’t use Teflon ovenware at temps higher than 500 degrees, and always use your exhaust fan when cooking. If you’re in the market for new cookware, consider good old-fashioned cast iron. Properly seasoned and cared for, these pieces can last a lifetime.
Air Fresheners
There is no legal requirement for companies to list the contents of their air fresheners, but one of the most common chemicals used in their manufacture is formaldehyde. Many also contain phthalates which have been linked to birth defects, and acetaldehyde, a likely carcinogen. Rather than fill your home with artificial fragrance, first try to eliminate the source of the odor. Cleaning smelly spots like trashcans, sinks, and garbage disposals with baking soda and lemon juice can absorb most kitchen and bath odors. Use fresh flowers, or bowls of fresh citrus to give your home a healthy and clean scent.
Pesticides
Chemicals that are intended to kill, even if it’s just an ant, can’t be good for humans. Additionally, droplets of spray can end up in unintended places like kitchen counters and cause contamination. Side effects of exposure to these products include headaches and skin irritation. A sprinkle of cinnamon will repel ants naturally, and it smells good. You can also use cinnamon essential oil, or spearmint. Roaches? They hate bay leaves. Put whole leaves in boxes, drawers, or anywhere these critters are likely to congregate. There are tons of natural and effective ways to rid your home of the pests you don’t want without harming the good ones like bees and butterflies.
