Most, if not all, everyday items in our homes contain toxic chemicals. Many of these toxic items can be harmful to our health if they are ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with our skin. Here are some common toxic items in your home:
cleaning chemicals (dishwasher, laundry, etc.)
- Shower, toilet, & tile cleaners: Often contain ammonia and bleach. These release toxic fumes when mixed, causing respiratory issues, skin irritation and lung irritation.
- Oven cleaners: These often contain lye and can burn the skin or cause lung irritation.
- Glass cleaners: Some contain harsh chemicals like ammonia and ethanol that can be harmful if inhaled.
- Soap, detergent pods, air fresheners, cosmetics, & perfume: Many of these affect your central nervous system, causing depression, nausea, dizziness, vertigo, skin irritation, and kidney damage.
- Spot Cleaners: Many contain chloroform. Often used in dry-cleaning, it is a toxic chemical that can damage the brain, liver, and kidneys.
When shopping for cleaning products that are non-toxic, not all labels mean they are safe! Most brands that are labeled as eco-friendly, plant based or non-toxic still contain high levels of toxic chemicals. An amazing, 100% non-toxic cleaning brand is Pure Haven.
CLOTHING, SHOES & ACCESSORIES
Clothing brands that produce cheap, low quality clothing, such as Temu, Shein, and AliExpress have had reports of high levels of toxic chemicals in their products.
Formaldehyde, a chemical commonly used in home building products, has been traced to hats sold on Shein at double the allowable limit.
Lead has been found present in sandals sold on Temu 11x higher than the legal limit. As Tamara from LeadSafeMama always says, “No amount of lead is safe.” Lead poisoning can cause developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and organ damage whether you are exposed for a short or a long period of time.
Dioxane was found in nail polish sold on Shein. Long-term exposure can lead to kidney and liver poisoning.
plastic containers
Plastic contains toxic chemicals (BPA, phthalates, etc.) that are released onto your food when heated. If you use a plastic container in the microwave or to store your leftovers, you are putting yourself at risk of consuming several toxic chemicals.
- Phthalates are used to soften plastics. Phthalates can be found in plastic and non-plastic containers.
- PFAS are used to make plastics stain and grease resistant.
- Bisphenol A (BPA) is used to make hard, shatterproof plastic (it usually has #7 on the bottom) and is also found (but not labeled) in the lining of canned foods and beverages.
These chemicals are referred to as endocrine disruptors and act like hormones in our body and affect our natural hormone production. These types of chemicals have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and other health problems.
Toxic plastics in your home include everyday items, such as frozen meals, butter containers, and food storage containers.
“Microwave safe” does not mean the plastic is safe to heat in the microwave. It only means the plastic will not melt in the microwave.
Instead, eat meals prepared at home and always store food in a lead-free, glass containers. Bormioli Rocco offers affordable, safe glass food storage containers.
candles & air fresheners
Candles, especially scented candles, are one of the most overlooked yet toxic items in your home. With synthetic scents, toxic wax, and wicks containing lead, lighting your favorite scented candle may not be such a good idea after all!
Candles made from paraffin wax are petroleum based, and we all know how toxic petroleum is! When paraffin burns, toxic chemicals, including benzene, toluene and aldehydes are released into the air.
Many of these chemicals are classified as carcinogens, meaning they increase your risk of cancer and other illnesses, especially with prolonged exposure.
So what are the safest candles to burn? Beeswax. Beeswax candles are natural, eco-friendly, and improve air quality. But be careful! You still need to ensure you buy unbleached beeswax with synthetic-free scents. I know, I know – so much unnecessary work!
Baby & children's toys
Painted toys often contain lead or other chemicals that are unsafe to touch or be put in your child’s mouth. The colors that are found to contain the most lead are red and green. Makes me wonder about Christmas decorations, wouldn’t you say? Anywho…
Yes – we’ve banned the creation and sale of toys that contain lead paint, but did you know vintage toys are FULL of lead and other chemicals? Your old, childhood favorites and grandma’s old toys should be thrown out stat!
Toys made before 2007 are found to contain extremely unsafe levels of lead and other toxins. That’s because in 2007, China finally banned lead in toys. That’s right – all your favorite Barbies, Thomas the Train toys, Polly Pockets, etc. are all completely toxic.
Does anyone remeber how Barbies used to smell? Or play food? It was a specific smell. Both very different, but I can still smell it in my memories. Must’ve been toxic because neither of them have that smell anymore!
In addition to toxic paint, plastic toys pose their own risks. When infants and smaller children chew on plastic toys (particularly flexible ones), they may be ingesting harmful chemicals, such as phthalates or BPA, which can disrupt hormone development, potentially impacting their long-term health.
To avoid toxins, look for wooden toys and dolls made from natural fibers for your little ones. Especially those who still love to put everything in their mouths. Plan Toys offers a variety of fun, non-toxic wooden toys for children of all ages. I personally use their products for my infant and love them!
Another favorite of ours is this natural rubber teether. It is easy for babies to grasp and offers sensory fun.
- 100% All Natural Rubber Teether
- Helps Sensory Motor Skills
- Environmentally Sustainable
- Easy for Infants to Grasp - Calming and Fun!
- Safe! No BPA, No PVC, No Parabens, No Phthalates
This hardly scratches the surface of toxic items in your home; however, becoming aware of these toxins and replacing them with non-toxic versions is a wonderful start to the long journey ahead of a toxin-free life. If that’s even possible!
Avoid toxic chemicals in your home for cleaning. A wonderful alternative is simply cleaning with vinegar and water. Use a 1:1 ratio and you can even add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for added scent!
Avoid questionable clothing from sites like Temu and Shein and shop natural fibers (organic cotton, wool, linen). If money is an issue, shop on Unclaimed Baggage! They offer great deals on new and used items, and you can search by material! Win win!
Lead can be found in common items such as dishware, clothing, toys and food! Researching lead is truly jumping down a rabbit hole, so if you’re ready… jump.
Other toxins in your home...
Polyester! It’s primarily in stuffed animals, pillow stuffing, clothing and furniture. Clothing is a huge one in our family, as lead is only one of the issues I have with clothing. Clothes made from polyester and other synthetic fibers are crazy toxic! Read more about the dangers of polyester.
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