Nonstick Cookware|Nonstick Cookware
Mothballs
Mothballs are a solid pesticide that evaporates into a gas when exposed to air. If you smell mothballs, you're inhaling at least one of the pesticides naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Prolonged or overwhelming exposure can cause headaches, nausea or worse. Cedar chips won't repel moths, but deep cleaning after an infestation and then keeping clothes clean, exposing stored clothing to sunlight every couple of months to kill larvae or sealing seasonal items in airtight containers will keep items moth-free and nontoxic.
Air Freshener
Aerosol, plug-in and powder air fresheners pose health risks if used too frequently. They release volatile organic compounds into the air, which turn into a vapor or gas at room temperature. The toxicity comes when these VOCs combine with the ozone in the air. Citrus studded with clove, fresh flowers or simply opening windows and airing things out are safer ways to get rid of odors and leave your home smelling clean.
Oven Cleaners
Fumes from oven cleaners can cause breathing difficulties or throat swelling. The fumes can burn your eyes, nose, lips or tongue, and cause vision loss. These spray-on/wipe-down cleaners contain the powerful corrosive alkalis, which can also burn the skin or cause internal bleeding due to overexposure. They make cleaning your oven easy. But for nontoxic shine , try mixing baking soda, soap and salt. You'll have to scrub a little harder, but you won't have to wear a mask or even gloves — it's that safe.
Furniture Polish, Varnish and Stain
Many varnishes and stains contain benzene, which is a known carcinogen. They also often contain polyurethane, which is made of isocyanates — also classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as potentially cancer-causing in humans — and, until completely dry, cause breathing problems, coughing, nausea and headaches. Look for low-VOC products, and follow instructions on how to safely treat your wood, including wearing gloves, masks and avoiding unnecessary exposure until the wood is completely dry,
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Many toilet bowl cleaners, particularly those containing bleach, get low ratings for healthy exposure by the Environmental Working Group. They frequently contain hydrochloric acid, which can cause burning in the eyes and throat, and can be toxic if inhaled.
Gas Heaters
Gas-powered heaters should not be used indoors and should only be used where they get plenty of ventilation. They pose a safety concern as they release combustible particles into the air. Air that is not ventilated can trap carbon monoxide, which is poisonous.
