Although we use them every day, many cleaners and chemicals we keep in our homes can be very dangerous if splashed on the skin, inhaled, or ingested. To avoid serious accidents, carefully follow the instructions on the product label and store dangerous household chemicals, especially if you have children or pets living in your home. Here are a number of common household chemicals that can cause severe health issues and problems.
Top Dangerous Household Chemicals
Household chemicals can pose serious health hazards if not used and stored properly. Here are some of the most dangerous household chemicals to be aware of.
1. Antifreeze
Antifreeze, used in automotive cooling systems, contains ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance. Ingestion of even small amounts of antifreeze can be fatal, particularly to children and pets, as it can cause kidney failure.
2. Bleach
Being a strong corrosive substance, bleach can affect the respiratory system if inhaled. Bleach can also irritate or burn the skin and eyes. Ingesting bleach can cause pulmonary edema or vomiting and coma. Always wear cleaning gloves and a dust mask when using bleach.
3. Drain Cleaners
These dangerous substances contain lye and other chemicals known to cause burns to the skin and eyes, and even blindness in severe cases. Swallowing a small amount of drain cleaner can severely affect the throat, stomach and may even cause death.
4. Carpet or Upholstery Cleaners
Carpet cleaners contain naphthalene, which are known to cause cataract formation and liver damage over long exposure. The perchloroethylene in carpet cleaners is carcinogenic, and it may cause dizziness, headaches, kidney dysfunction, neurological damage and other problems from short term exposure.
5. Ammonia
Ammonia produces fumes that can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. People suffering from asthma or heart or lung problems should avoid using ammonia. Mixing ammonia with chlorine products (such as bleach) produces an even more dangerous gas which is potentially fatal.
6. Air fresheners
Air fresheners are known to contain formaldehyde, a strong (possibly carcinogenic) substance that irritates the skin, eyes or throat. They contain other dangerous chemicals which may cause nervous system damage or pulmonary edema in sensitive individuals. Tips to safely keep your indoor air fresh are available here.
7. Pesticides
Household pesticides, including insecticides, rodenticides, and herbicides, contain toxic chemicals designed to kill pests. Exposure to pesticides can cause a range of health effects, including skin irritation, respiratory problems, and neurological damage.
8. Oven Cleaners
Oven cleaners contain caustic chemicals such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes upon contact. Inhalation of oven cleaner fumes can also irritate the respiratory tract.
9. Chlorine Gas (Pool Chemicals)
Chlorine gas is commonly used to disinfect swimming pools and hot tubs. Inhalation of chlorine gas can cause coughing, chest tightness, and respiratory distress. Mixing chlorine-based pool chemicals with other cleaning products can produce toxic fumes.
10. Hydrogen Peroxide
While commonly used as an antiseptic and disinfectant, concentrated hydrogen peroxide can cause skin and eye irritation, and ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal irritation or even internal burns.
11. Paint Thinners and Solvents
Paint thinners and solvents contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the respiratory tract and central nervous system. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals in poorly ventilated areas can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
12. Mold and Mildew Removers
Mold and mildew removers often contain harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, which can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Inhalation of mold and mildew remover fumes can also exacerbate respiratory conditions.
These are just some of the more dangerous household chemicals commonly found in homes. There are many other cleaners which contain potentially dangerous chemicals. To be on the safe side, avoid purchasing products marked Danger or Poison on the label. Find out more hidden household dangers in this article.
For professional fire, water and mold restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office.
