Hidden Household Toxins

One of the most important ways to help ensure that your animal enjoys a long, healthy life is to minimize their exposure to toxins. In the home environment, a great way to start is by switching to non-toxic cleaners. Harmful toxins also lurk in other household products, and these chemicals can have a detrimental effect on you and your animal. We will take a look at 6 of these in this article.

Phthalates

What are they? A group of chemicals used to make plastic and vinyl softer and more flexible. They are also used in personal care products to enhance fragrances.

Where do I find them? In personal care products such as soaps, shampoos, and cosmetics. Also in household items like shower curtains, plastic food containers, toys, and vinyl flooring.

Why are they bad? Phtalates are endocrine disruptors, which means they can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, as well as the respiratory and reproductive systems.

How can I avoid them? Opt for natural personal care products that use high quality essential oils, not artificial fragrances. Store food in glass instead of plastic. Choose more natural materials for your household items.

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)

What are they? A family of hydrocarbons that used to be used as flame retardants before being phased out in the US in 2013.

Where do I find them?   In products containing cloth materials (older upholstered furniture, clothing, window dressings, rugs and carpets, mattresses , etc), computers, building materials, and foam products.

Why are they bad? They are neurotoxins and endocrine disruptions that can affect the thyroid as well as reproductive and immune systems. They have also been linked to cancer. How can I avoid them? Look for products that are labeled free of flame retardants. Replace older sofas and pillows that may contain PBDE-containing foams. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for cleaning up around the house.

Triclosan

What is it? An antibacterial and anti-fungal agent added to many household products.

Where is it found? Soaps, hand sanitizers, dish washing liquids, toothpastes and deodorants.

Why is it bad? It can promote the development of drug-resistant bacteria, and it is also linked to cancer and can affect muscle and heart function.

How can I avoid it? Switch to more natural body care products that use high-quality essential oils and wash dishes in a detergent made from simple ingredients.

Polychloinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

What are they? PCBs were used for almost 50 years as coolants and lubricants in electrical equipment. They were also used in paint, sealing, and caulking compounds. Fortunately they have not been manufactured since the late 1970's, although they do not break down easily.

Where are they found? PCBs have entered the food chain and are not found in fish and some meats.

Why is it bad? Long-term exposure to these chemicals has been associated with malignancies in the liver, skins, kidney, GI, and brain cancers.

How can I avoid them? When preparing fish and meat for your animal and yourself, remove the skin and far. That is where the toxic chemicals are most likely to accumulate.

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds

What are they? Like triclosan, these chemicals are used as antimicrobial in household products.

Where are they found? Antibacterial cleaners, dryer sheets, and fabric softeners.

Why are they bad? They are another contributor to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They also cause skin irritation and respiratory problems such as asthma.

How can I avoid them? Instead of using dryer sheets and fabric softeners, add white vinegar to the wash water. That will soften fabrics and help reduce static cling. Antibacterial cleaners can be replaced with simple homemade cleaners with essential oils, as mentioned earlier.

Tetrachlorethylene

What is it? It is a commonly used solvent that has been in use for a century.

Where is it found? In dry-cleaning solutions, cleaners for upholstery and carpets, and spot removers.

Why is it bad? It is a neurotoxin that is associated with cancer. It can cause dizziness and los of coordination. The state of California is aiming to phase it out by 2023.

How can I avoid it? Try to avoid buying clothes and other fabrics that can only be dry-cleaned. Look for non-toxic spot removers.

The modern household environment can potentially be home to many additional chemicals and toxins that can negatively affect you and your animal's health. But don't despair- safer, non-toxic alternatives are easy to find and make. With a little bit of research you will be well on your way to a healthier family!

Source: Brightman, Ann "6 Hidden Household Toxins." Animal Wellness. April/May 2019.