1. Non-Stick Cookware
The Problem - the main toxic problem with non-stick cookware is PTFE - polytetrafluoroethylene, which is the non-stick coating. The PTFE releases toxic gases that have now been linked to cancer, organic failure, reproductive damage and other dangers.
The Solution - Cast iron cookware is a great alternative for all of your cooking needs from pancakes to souffles. They easily go from stove top to oven and you get the added benefit of adding iron to your diet. Get pre-seasoned for less hassle.
2. Insecticides and Herbicides
The Problem - The active ingredient in the most popular brand of insecticide called Roundup has shown to cause kidney damage and reproductive harm in mice. And another pesky ingredient called cypermethrin, found in Raid is a known eye, skin and causes nervous system damage.
The Solution - Here are some great resources for choosing natural pest control:
3. Non-natural Cleaning Supplies
The Problem - Most conventional cleaning supplied contain that nasty smelling ingredient we all recognize instantly - ammonia. The problem with ammonia is that it is a strong irritant linked to liver and kidney damage. The list of harmful, dangerous toxins in household cleaners is long. In fact, the list is right on the label next to the major warning for danger!
The Solution - Try natural ingredients such as lemon, baking soda and vinegar to replace your store bough brands, or choose natural brands such as Ecover.
4. Flame Retardants
The Problem - All foam items, including: mattresses, couches, chairs and carpet padding that were made before 2005 most likely contain the ingredient PBDE - polybrominated diphenyl ether, a chemical linked to liver, thyroid and neuro-developmental toxicity.
The Solution - If you're not ready to shell out big bucks to replace your old mattress, try an organic wool cover and organic bedding.
5. Antibacterial Products
The Problem - All the rage over the last decade has been to use as many anti-bacterial products in our lives as possible. From soaps to hand-sanitizers, we are squeaky clean to a fault. The main problem is that all this has use of anti-bacterial products has created new strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria called "superbugs".
The Solution - Regular washing with soap and water will do the job and keep you in healthy levels of dirt.
6. Air Fresheners
The Problem - Besides being horribly offensive to most people, air fresheners can aggravate respiratory problems like asthma and are extremely toxic in nature.
The Solution - Cleaning with natural products and try simmering natural herbs like cinnamon or one/two drops of essential oils (only when you are home to monitor the stove). Or try some natural brands with essential oil base fragrances.
7. Chemical Fertilizer
The Problem - These are dangerous chemicals that are bound to interact with animals, helpful bugs and children who are all naturally drawn to grass for playing and lounging.
The Solution - There are tons of organic fertilizers to choose from.
This list was adapted from Natural Home Magazine.
said on August 18, 2010