Most of us do not even realize that there are hundreds are cancer-causing chemicals in our homes. Manufacturers are adding toxic chemicals to many of the everyday products that people take into their homes, and it is about time people begin to educate themselves on safe and dangerous chemicals so that they can make sound decision regarding the products they choose to support and those they do not.
Cancer is one of the main causes of death in the Western world, but did you know that you can reduce your chances of getting cancer by simply getting rid of the toxic, cancer-causing chemicals in your home? The first step to cleaning out your home is to recognize the chemicals that are placed on the “ingredients” label of your personal products and getting to know exactly what chemicals are used on your furniture.
Personal Products and Phthalates
Phthalates are used in so many products that you probably own many items that were manufactured with this toxic chemical; from your children’s toys to your shampoo. Researchers have linked Phthalates to cancer, but it is also a hormone disruptor and it has been associated with disorders of the reproductive system; definitely not a chemical you want lying around your home.
Getting Rid of Phthalates
To clear your home of phthalates, you need to start reading what goes into the products you purchase. This chemical is more commonly found in PVC and everyday products, so start checking your bottles of shampoo, your lotions and just about everything you use. This chemical is usually listed as “fragrance”, and unless the bottle stipulates that it is phthalate-free, you have got a problem. When it comes to furniture and your children’s toys, stay away from PVC.
Formaldehyde and Ventilating your Home
Formaldehyde mainly comes from the adhesives used to put your furniture together, but it can also be found in personal products. This toxic gas fills your home, releasing itself from the products that were made along with it, and this can lead to all sorts of cancers, especially lung cancer. Ventilation is the key to dispersing this gas and ridding your family of its effects, so make sure your home is properly ventilated, whether it is during the summer or the winter.
Brominated Flame Retardents: the Silent Killer
Research has been conducted into Brominated flame retardants, and it is now believed that the cons of this chemical far outweigh its benefits as a “fire prevention method”. There are so many flame retardants that could be used in its place, but this chemical happens to be the cheapest and effective enough for manufacturers to look past its “cancer causing cons”. This type of chemical is usually transported from your carpets, furniture, bedding and clothing via dust, and so to get rid of it, you need to make sure that you dust and clean your home on a fairly regular basis. It might also be a good idea to ask about the flame retardant chemicals that were used whenever you purchase new items of furniture so that you can pass up the offer on the Brominated items.
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