When you purchase products for your home, you hope that the items are designed to make life safer, healthier and more efficient. However, if some of these products aren't used in a safe way, they become a threat to your family's health. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commissioner, around 300 products are recalled each year! In addition, thousands of other products are still on the market but proven to be bad for you. Here are some dangerous home items you need to be cautious of.

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1. Non-stick cookware

Remember when non-stick pans first came out? We were thrilled not to have to scrub pots and threw our steel wool into the garbage. Although Teflon pans are easy to clean, the coating (PTFE) releases toxic gases when heated at a high temperature. These gases have been linked to cancer, reproductive damage and organ failure. When using Teflon pans, use a low or medium heat only.
Alternative: If possible, replace your nonstick pans with stainless steel, cast iron or anodized aluminum pans.

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Points: 19

2. Mothballs

Mothballs are not only a dangerous home item but are also nasty smelling. For years we have been told to use them in our closets to kill off moths and avoid chewed holes in our clothes. Some mothballs contain paradichlorobenzene, an active ingredient known to cause cancer in animals. Other brands contain naphthalene, which over time can cause vomiting, diarrhea and damage to red blood cells.
Alternative: Replace mothballs with cedar chips.

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Points: 16

3. Cleaning solutions

When using cleaning solutions, be sure the room is well-ventilated. Otherwise, you risk being exposed to toxic levels of pollutants. The gases from the cans or sprays can react with ozone in the air, producing a poisonous combination.
Alternative: Consider switching to natural cleaners. For example, white vinegar is completely safe and has multiple cleaning uses.

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Points: 11

4. Antibacterial products

Are you becoming a germ freak? Do you squirt antibacterial on your hands several times a day? You might want to switch back to soap and water! The use of antibacterials has been linked to new strains of antibiotic-resistant super-bugs. The Center for Disease Control claims that anti-bacterials may interfere with the development of the immune system in children. Triclosan, an antibacterial found in more than 100 common household products, accumulates in the body.
Alternative: Use soap and water or an eco-friendly hand wash. People who are exposed to germs typically develop a stronger immune system.

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Points: 8

5. Chemicals in carpets

When having new carpet installed, make sure the room is well ventilated for a few days. The glues and dyes are known to emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful in high amounts. Be sure babies and toddlers aren't placed directly on the carpet for the first two weeks.
Alternative: Consider non-toxic flooring such as wood and use throw rugs.

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Points: 4

6. Plastic bottles

When speaking of home dangers, beware of the plastic bottle! Although efforts are being made by companies to use BPA-free plastic, some bottles are still harmful. Single-use plastic bottles release chemicals when exposed to heat. If you keep plastic bottles of water in a hot car, they may become spawning grounds for bacteria. To manufacture the 25 billion single-use plastic water bottles sold in the US in a year, more than one million barrels of oil are used! That's alarming!
Alternative: Use a reusable, stainless steel or glass bottle for your water.

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Points: 2

7. Pesticides

In the United States, nine out of ten households use some form of pesticide. Whether we're discouraging ants from entering the kitchen or getting rid of mice in the cellar, the use of pesticides puts people and pets at risk. According to a survey conducted by the US Environmental Protection Agency, 75% of homes have pesticides in unlocked cabinets. The American Association of Poison Control Center receives almost 50,000 calls annually regarding children who have been exposed to high levels of pesticides.
Alternative: Use natural products, such as Sunshine Concentrate. For big problems hire an extermination service which utilizes non-toxic methods. If you must use pesticides, keep them in a locked upper cupboard.

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Points: 1

8. Air fresheners

Commercials promote using air fresheners as a way of caring for your family and friends. In reality, air fresheners are highly toxic and dangerous home items that can set off respiratory problems. Some fresheners even contain paradichlorobenzene, the same chemical found in mothballs. Be sure to read labels. Phthalates, are chemicals that have caused hormonal abnormalities and birth defects.
Alternative: Open your windows and let fresh air in, simmer cinnamon and cloves in a pan, or use an essential oil burner.

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Points: 0

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