What is the definition of a "toxic chemical"? According to online dictionaries, toxic chemicals are described as: Any chemical that can cause death or permanent harm to humans or animals. This includes all such chemicals, regardless of their origin or of their method of production, and regardless of whether they are produced in facilities, or elsewhere.
The fumes that come from air fresheners, household cleaners, and laundry detergents that make your home and laundry smell so fresh contain dozens of toxic chemicals, and "volatile organic compounds". You can research that term later. They have the ability to harm your health, and your pet's health as well. None of these toxic chemicals will be listed on product labels so don't even bother to look for them. The federal government does not require companies to disclose ingredients that are considered fragrances.
CONSUMER REPORTS WATER SOFTENERS
I'm only talking about household scents here. I can write an article every day for a year and not cover all the toxic chemicals in our environment. Most of us know to stay clear of cleaners that look dangerous and include warnings on the label, like "do not breathe", but we may not think about fragrances as toxic chemicals.
Of course, the health effects of toxic chemicals in the home are "unclear". I don't want to be part of an experiment, do you? It seems the American way is to put the product out there and if a few too many people die or are hospitalized, then maybe they'll consider taking it off the shelf. If product complaints include reports of dizziness, headaches, seizures, and shortness of breath, and asthma attacks, that's enough for me to give it up!
If you don't think I'm being straight with you, do your own research to become informed and to be able to make the right decisions for you. I wanted to share with you an article from National Geographic where an employee willingly allowed himself to be tested for toxic chemicals in his body. It is an eye-opener, even if you think this is a bunch of nonsense put together by women who have nothing better to do than report the sky is falling.
Some of you may already be taking measures to protect your family, and I applaud you. Your awareness may have started with the problem of lead in toys, or maybe you are in Health and Wellness like me, and watch out for these things. I do not think our health is the main concern amongst big businesses today. You will have to take your health into your own hands, even when it comes to laundry products. Seems ridiculous, doesn't it?
So, what exactly is the problem this time? Not much is considered safe these days. The problem of toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds in scents goes along with the finding of hormone disruptors in plastics, toiletries and other man made products. You can research "hormone disruptors" as well, and learn all you need to know about how these chemicals affect your body, and it's not pretty!
The latest studies by the University of Washington focused on commonly used products: dryer sheets (women love the way they smell), fabric softeners, laundry detergents, and different types of air fresheners. All the products gave off major volatile organic compounds, or VOCs.
Many volatile organic compounds like paint and gasoline are known to be harmful. Of course, the safety of the rest are "unclear". VOCs are compounds that vaporize easily. You may have heard about volatile organic compounds from interior house paint ads, or from your city's water quality report. They are in there!
All of the products that were tested emitted at least one harmful, toxic chemical; classified by the federal government, not by me. There were 3 toxic chemicals emitted that the EPA considers hazards with no safe exposure levels, that have been linked to organ damage. I'm sure the rest is "unclear".
Although certain groups have spoken up to assure you that these toxic chemical fragrances have been tested for safety and be used with confidence, I am "confidently" not using them and haven't been for a long time. Knowledge is power here. I only mean to inform, although I'm sure you pick up on where I stand on the matter.
Children are very sensitive to toxic chemical exposure and their little bodies should be protected. Because of their size the toxic chemicals can affect them even more. Even healthy males, during a recent study, reported the side effects listed above, when they were exposed to volatile organic compounds.
Naturally, the products tested will not be named, because you guessed it: big money is involved. Even though we deserve the right to know what is in the products we use daily, manufacturers are not required to tell us.
So, how do you avoid toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds in the home? Look for natural, plant-based products with fragrances disclosed on the label. They are out there if you look, and they are not always more expensive. Stop using laundry products with a fragrance; look for unscented. Use a fan in the bathroom! Be an "informed consumer" and remember, "Knowledge is Power" to make a difference in your health, and in those you love.
Toxic Chemicals in the Home - Are They in Yours? CONSUMER REPORTS WATER SOFTENERS
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