Microwave Popcorn Bags
The lining of these bags contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), an endocrine disruptor linked to fertility problems and developmental and immune system issues. We all know we should avoid processed foods at all costs, and this is another good example of why we should do so!
Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets can cause lung problems and skin irritation if you are sensitive to them. They contain benzyl acetate, camphor, ethanol, limonene, and phenol which can trigger allergies and asthma.
Microwave Ovens
The electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from microwave ovens creates unnecessary stress on your body and can give you cancer. They also kill vegetables’ nutrients, especially when steamed. Steaming vegetables is a better way to cook them, and make sure they are organic and non-GMO as much as possible.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
The toilet bowl cleaner in your bathroom may be toxic to you and your pets. It contains hydrochloric acid, which is harmful when ingested or inhaled in the air. To remove stains from inside the toilet:
- Use baking soda instead of bleach since this doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients.
- Just pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet and add a cup of vinegar.
- Wait for 30 minutes, and then scrub!
Humidifiers
They can release several harmful things to your lungs and eyes. These include mold, bacteria, fungus, and various chemicals from the humidifier’s plastic parts, all of which can cause flu-like symptoms. So it’s better to use a vaporizer instead because these don’t contain any harmful ingredients.
Fabric Softeners
These fabric softeners leave a residue on clothes that makes them less absorbent over time, resulting in more expensive laundry bills. They also contain toxic ingredients such as benzyl acetate and chloroform, which can trigger allergies and asthma. Vinegar is a great alternative to soften clothes without leaving any harmful chemicals in your fabrics.
Pool Chlorine
The carcinogen called dihydrogen monoxide is in pool water which is actually chlorine. Chlorine forms other dangerous chemical compounds such as chloroform and bromoform when it comes into contact with sunlight or spa water. Switch to saltwater or ionizer instead!
Household Cleaners
Most household cleaners contain chemicals that can trigger allergies and asthma. They often use antibacterial ingredients like triclosan, which can interfere with your body’s hormones. Instead of using these harmful cleaners, make your own natural cleaner by mixing baking soda or vinegar with water. Or if you really feel uncomfortable doing it yourself, buy a safe, all-natural product instead!
Conclusion
This list is by no means a complete one. It could be much longer, and the article smaller because of it. These items are things that you should use sparingly or not at all because of the chemicals they contain. Unfortunately, our society tends to ignore this advice and use them anyway! Even one tablespoon of household cleaner can kill an adult human being. So please always use caution when using cleaning agents! Don’t drink from water bottles unless they are stainless steel or glass (and don’t let anyone convince you otherwise).
