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​Hidden Sources of Household Pollutants

​Hidden Sources of Household Pollutants

Published by Jason Hite on Feb 06, 2015

Hidden Sources of Household Pollutants

Most of us think of our home as a safe place to be. We try to keep our homes clean and comfortable, but unfortunately, there could still be some hidden dangers lurking around. Here are some of the hidden sources of household pollutants:

Furniture

Many people are unaware that their furniture has been treated with toxic chemicals. Designed to slow burning, should the furniture catch fire, flame retardants are commonly used in foam and upholstery. The long term health effects on humans have yet to be fully understood, but research on animals has shown negative health effects. Some consumers are now seeking toxin-free furniture options.

Carpets

Carpets harbor so many bacteria, dust mites, and other airborne pollutants. Even when carpets appear to be clean, there’s still debris buried in the fibers. The only way to completely eliminate the aggravation that carpeting brings is by removing it and installing hardwood or laminate floors.

Household Cleaning Products

It should come as no surprise that many cleaning products contain a variety of harmful chemicals. After all, the bottles do come with warnings, yet we still trust these products to keep our homes clean. They also could be having toxic effects on our health. Opt for a natural cleaning product, or even a DIY solution, like vinegar and baking soda.

Mold

Mold is one of those hidden dangers that often lurk behind walls and under floorboards. You may not always be able to see it, but it could be very present in damp areas of the home, like the basement and bathroom. If you suspect mold, it’s always best to get it checked out and have it professionally removed. Bleach will only mask the problem, without eradicating it.

Lead

Lead is often found in paint in older homes. As the paint starts to chip and flake, the particles are released into the air. If you have an older home and suspect that there may be lead paint on any of the woodwork or walls, have it checked out.

You have to be on your toes and stay on the lookout for hidden dangers in your home. In order to keep it clean and safe, you will want to make sure that you avoid these toxins whenever possible.