Are household chemicals a risk or benefit? The benefits of
chemicals have become so much a part of our everyday life
that we usually take them for granted. Unfortunately, some
of the characteristics that make household chemical products
the most useful also lead to trouble when these products are
easy to understand that pesticides or medicines are chemicals,
but often people don't stop to think that such common household
products as bleaches, disinfectants, shoe polish, detergents,
floor polishes, etc. are also chemicals and could be hazardous.
our use of chemicals has grown, so has our concern about their
effects on people and the environment. Some chemicals are
highly poisonous. Some can cause illness or death if misused.
to Hazardous Substances
is a lot of interest in finding and using less hazardous substances
around the home. It can be an acceptable risk to use a toxic
chemical substance provided it is safely and properly handled
and controlled. It is not an acceptable risk to use just any
chemical substance for just any purpose. An important qualifying
factor for a toxic substance is the quantity or amount used.
fact that a household chemical is tested, labeled and marketed
does not mean a consumer no longer has a responsibility for
is a lot of information being circulated with recommendations
for "natural" products to use for various household
uses. Common recommendations include the use of vinegar, baking
soda, salt, lemon juice, washing soda, ammonia and borax.
When selecting alternative products, consider:
The alternative product may be less effective, require more
effort, take longer to use or be less convenient to use.
same precautions about quantity of the product as a toxicity
factor apply to even "natural" products. Excessive
amounts can be toxic.
same precautions about the hazards of mixing chemicals will
products recommended as less hazardous alternative products
can, in fact be harsher in use. This is especially true
of "natural" cleaning products and practices that
replace cleaning and "elbow grease." The result
can be greater wear and possible damage to the material
Use of Household Chemicals
you choose a chemical that is clearly indicated as a hazardous
product, or a less hazardous alternative product, careful
safety practices are needed.
products that are clearly labeled and have complete instructions
for safe use and disposal.
Purchase only as much of the product as you expect to use,
or buy only a small amount of the product at first to determine
if it meets your needs. Plan with friends, family or neighbors
to share the product. This will reduce the chance that you
will have a leftover hazardous product that needs storage
using a product, become familiar with emergency procedures
in case of skin or eye irritation, accidental ingestion
or other problems.
Always use products according to label directions, for their
intended purpose, and at the recommended strength or concentration.
Never mix products together unless specifically directed.
If a product contains a solvent, use in a well-ventilated
space and away from heat sources and sparks. Also be aware
that solvents can remove dyes or be damaging to synthetic
track of the product container during use, to avoid spills
and inquisitive children. (One study by the Soap and Detergent
Association reported that three-fourths of the reported
childhood poisonings from household chemicals occurred when
the product was in use.)
recommended, use safety equipment or protective clothing,
such as gloves, safety glasses or masks.
store products in their original containers so they are
products in a safe location, secure from children and pets,
and away from heat sources and air vents.