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We tend to think of home as a safe place, but some everyday products can come with risks that are easy to overlook. Cleaning supplies under the sink, batteries in a drawer, and even certain cookware can cause problems if they’re used incorrectly, stored carelessly, or handled too often without proper precautions.
That doesn’t mean you need to clear out your cabinets or stop using products you rely on. A little awareness can go a long way. Knowing which items need extra care, where to store them, and how to use them safely can help reduce unnecessary exposure around the house.
Here are some common household items worth keeping an eye on.
Cleaning Products
Bleach, ammonia, oven cleaners, disinfectants, and other heavy-duty cleaners can release irritating fumes. Using them in a small, poorly ventilated room may cause coughing, headaches, or breathing irritation.
Never mix cleaning products unless the label says it is safe. Mixing bleach with ammonia, for example, can produce dangerous gases. Keep cleaners in their original containers, store them away from children and pets, and open windows or use exhaust fans while cleaning.
Air Fresheners
Air freshener sprays, plug-ins, scented gels, and similar products can contain synthetic fragrances and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). For some people, these ingredients can irritate the eyes or airways.
Instead of constantly covering up unpleasant smells, look for the source first. Better ventilation, regular cleaning, and simple odor absorbers such as baking soda can often help. If you prefer scented products, use them sparingly and follow the directions on the label.
Laundry Detergent Pods
Laundry pods contain concentrated detergent in a small package. If the pod is bitten, punctured, or handled with wet hands, its contents can get into the eyes or onto the skin.
Their bright colors and small size also make them particularly tempting to young children. Store pods in their original container, keep the container closed, and place it somewhere children and pets cannot reach.
Medications
Prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause serious harm when taken by the wrong person or in the wrong amount. Some medicines are particularly dangerous in very small quantities.
Keep medications in their original labeled containers and store them somewhere secure. Avoid leaving pills on counters or bedside tables where children or visitors could accidentally take them. Dispose of expired or unwanted medicine through an appropriate medication take-back program when available.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
Perfume, nail polish remover, hairspray, hair dyes, and some lotions contain ingredients that can irritate the skin, eyes, or respiratory system. Products containing solvents can also be harmful if swallowed or used in a poorly ventilated area.
Keep personal care products in their original containers and follow the instructions for use. Open a window when using strong-smelling products such as nail polish remover or hairspray, and keep them away from children.
Batteries
Small batteries deserve extra care, particularly button and coin batteries. If swallowed, they can become lodged in the digestive tract and cause serious internal injuries.
Leaking batteries can also release corrosive material that may damage skin, surfaces, or electronics. Store spare batteries where children cannot reach them, keep them in their packaging when possible, and dispose of damaged or used batteries through an appropriate collection program.
Pesticides and Insect Repellents
Pesticides are made to kill or control insects and other pests, so they should be handled with care. Using more than the label recommends can increase exposure without giving you better results.
Before reaching for a spray, look for ways to prevent the problem. Seal cracks and openings, remove standing water, keep food stored properly, and deal with moisture problems. When treatment is needed, follow the product label carefully and keep children and pets away from treated areas as directed.
Related: 10 Homemade Organic Pesticides You Can Make With Ingredients You Already Have
Paint and Paint Thinners
Paints, solvents, and paint thinners can release fumes, particularly while they are being applied or drying. Older homes can also contain lead-based paint, which can be dangerous when old painted surfaces are sanded, scraped, or disturbed.
If you’re painting, provide plenty of ventilation and follow the product instructions. Low-VOC and zero-VOC paints can reduce indoor emissions, although they still need to be used according to the label. Keep thinners and other solvents tightly closed and away from heat sources.
Certain Houseplants
A houseplant can look completely harmless while still being unsafe to chew. Some popular plants, including philodendrons and peace lilies, contain compounds that can cause mouth irritation, stomach upset, or other problems if eaten.
Some houseplants may be a poor choice for homes with curious pets or young children. Check a plant’s toxicity before bringing it indoors, and place potentially harmful plants somewhere they cannot be reached.
Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work well for reducing germs when soap and water aren’t available, but they are still products that need to be handled carefully.
Swallowing even a relatively small amount can be dangerous, particularly for children. Frequent use can also leave some people with dry or irritated skin. Keep sanitizer bottles out of children’s reach and use only the amount recommended on the label. For everyday handwashing, soap and water remain a great option.
Nonstick Cookware
Nonstick cookware is generally safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, but the coating can become damaged by high temperatures, metal utensils, or heavy scratching.
Avoid heating an empty nonstick pan for long periods, and don’t use cookware with badly damaged or peeling coatings. If a pan has seen better days, replacing it is a better choice than continuing to cook with it.
Cast iron and stainless steel are two durable alternatives that can handle years of regular cooking with proper care.
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