In our daily routines, we rely on numerous items at work, at home, and in our social lives that enhance our convenience and enjoyment. However, they often carry hidden risks, potentially leading to serious health issues or injuries. If you’re not sure what we’re talking about, here are 20 ordinary things that can be surprisingly harmful.
Canned Foods
Believe it or not, many canned foods are lined with a resin that contains BPA, something that researchers worry could leach into food, especially acidic or fatty items. MedicineNet says, “Some human studies have linked BPA to health problems such as heart disease, type II diabetes, and male sexual dysfunction.”
Smartphone
As we scroll through social media or Facetime a friend, our smartphones emit blue light, which is known to disrupt our natural sleep cycles. Spending too many hours a day looking at screens can also lead to discomfort in your eyes, dry eyes, or even blurred vision.
Non-Stick Cookware
Non-stick coatings are often made with harmful chemicals that can release toxic fumes when heated or make their way into your bloodstream. According to Healthline, “PFOA has been linked to a number of health conditions, including thyroid disorders, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, and testicular cancer. It has also been linked to infertility and low birth weight.”
Plastic Containers
Plastic containers can contain BPA and other chemicals that have been shown to leach into food and beverages, particularly when the product is heated. Being exposed to BPA is linked to a variety of health issues, including hormonal disruptions, heart disease, and cancer.
Everyday Cleaning Products
Many everyday cleaning products we use throughout our homes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can sit within the air and cause issues with breathing and skin irritation. Often, these products also contain bleach, which is very dangerous if it is accidentally mixed with other substances.
Air Fresheners
Some air fresheners can emit over 100 different chemicals into your space, and How Stuff Works says, “Studies have linked the use of air fresheners to respiratory issues, reduced lung capacity and asthma aggravation due to the combination of certain chemicals and ozone-forming formaldehyde.” Try opening your windows daily instead to freshen up without the chemicals.
Carpets
That ‘new carpet smell’ is actually VOCs being released into the air, and over time, this can cause headaches or irritation in the eyes and throat. Older carpets can also harbor allergens, dust mites, and mold particles, lowering the quality of the air in your home.
Non-prescription Supplements
Over-the-counter supplements can interact with the prescription medications you’re taking, which could lead to dangerous side effects. Some supplements are also not as rigorously tested as prescription medications, and therefore they can contain impurities or very low levels of the ingredients advertised.
Microwave Oven
Properly functioning microwaves are designed to keep the radiation inside the appliance, but older or damaged models might begin to leak radiation into your home. It’s therefore important to regularly maintain and test the door seal of your microwave, as direct exposure could cause burns or injuries.
Scented Candles
They might smell nice, but scented candles can release VOCs such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and toluene into your home, affecting your air quality and health. Burning the wick of the candle can also produce soot, which can cause respiratory issues over time. Where you can, opt for candles made from beeswax or soy instead of paraffin.
Cosmetics
Cosmetic products are under-regulated and, as a result, have often been found to contain harmful chemicals. Parabens and phthalates, for example, can disrupt endocrine function and may be linked to cancer. According to the New York Times, “Researchers say that people should choose products that don’t increase overall exposure to toxins when and where they can.”
Electric Blankets
Old or poorly maintained electric blankets can pose a fire risk, so it’s essential to regularly inspect wiring and plugs to ensure they are safe. The blankets can be particularly dangerous to individuals who cannot feel heat properly, such as those with diabetes or vascular disease, as they may burn themselves without knowing.
Fast Foods
Regularly consuming fast foods that are high in salt can lead to increased blood pressure, which is a major risk for developing heart disease or having a stroke. These foods are also often high in trans fats and calories, which can contribute to obesity and other related health issues.
Non-Organic Fruits and Vegetables
When you buy non-organic fruits and vegetables, they often have residual pesticides on the surface, which, if consumed, can lead to a range of health issues such as neurological effects and disruptions to the endocrine system. It does help to wash and peel your produce, but it won’t completely eliminate the issue.
Drinking Water
It has been found that drinking water can be contaminated with heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic, especially in homes or areas with older plumbing systems. Exposure to these over a long period of time can cause serious health problems, including kidney damage or neurological disorders.
Rechargeable Batteries
Found in personal devices such as smartphones and laptops, lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire risk if they become damaged, overheat, or are improperly charged. If you notice that a battery increases in size or becomes damaged, you should replace it before recharging to prevent accidents.
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Fluorescent light bulbs generally contain mercury, which can be released as a vapor if the bulb is broken. Being exposed to this toxic heavy metal can cause a variety of effects, including tremors and changes to your vision and hearing. Swapping to LED bulbs is much safer.
Bath Mats
Rubber bath mats are great for reducing the risk of slipping in the bath or shower, but if they are not dried properly and regularly cleaned, they can harbor mold and bacteria. Over time, this can cause skin irritations, breathing problems, or infections.
Over-Ear Headphones
Using over-ear headphones at high volumes for extended periods of time can lead to tinnitus or hearing loss; keeping them at a low volume and taking long breaks in between use can reduce this risk. It’s also important to clean the headphones regularly to prevent ear infections, and try not to share them with others.
Printer Inks and Toners
The inks and toners used in printers often contain VOCs and heavy metals that can be harmful if they are inhaled or touch your skin. As a result, working with printers a lot can lead to respiratory issues. Opening windows to ventilate the room can help.