Unseen Toxins in Your Home

Posted on May 21, 2010

Certain toxins found in homes are extremely difficult to identify. After countless moves and spending time in new and old homes, our movers have experienced it all.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

According to Barry Jones, author of Home, Sweet Toxic Home, pollutants can be classified in three major categories: airborne, biological and toxic.

• Airborne toxins are small particles, such as lint, human skin or dust mites. Airborne pollutants can cause serious health problems, because they can travel far into the body via the lungs. The best defense against these types of pollutants is to dust regularly, preferably using magnetic dust cloths. Keeping a clean filter in air-conditioning units can reduce the amount of dust particles that are inhaled on a regular basis. Cleaning ceiling fans and light fixtures can also keep these toxins at bay.
• Biological pollutants are common in most homes and come from mold, pet dander and rodents. These types of pollutants enter the body through airborne particles, skin contact or ingestion of spoiled food. To avoid biological pollutants, make sure prolonged moisture is kept at a minimum. Regularly grooming your pets can greatly reduce the amount of pet dander you inhale, as will setting aside a designated area where your pet is not allowed.

  Rodents can be especially tricky to eradicate, so calling a professional is recommended. If you suspect that you have a rodent problem, it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible to prevent further infestation. Rodent feces can be toxic once dried. This can later be inhaled and can cause a Hanta virus infection. This disease can present itself as a dry cough, nausea and/or shallow breathing, eventually leading to possible respiratory failure. Even if your home is free of rodents, you may still be at risk of this virus through canned foods or soft drinks that have not been properly cleaned. All canned goods should be cleaned with soap and water before consumption.

• Toxic pollutants can be found in household cleaning products that produce long lasting fumes. Most bathroom cleaning detergents contain chlorine that can become active when in contact with hot water during showers. New carpeting can also pose a threat, because some glue used to secure carpet contains carcinogen benzene, which can cause cancer. It is best to be familiar with the chemical properties of household cleaning products.

The average home most likely contains a number of these pollutants, but if you take the time to learn how to identify these threats, you can stay on top of them.