Household maintenance
What to look for on a label
- Pay attention to signal words: caution, warning and danger. These words tell you about both physical hazards (fire, injury) and chemical hazards (burns, toxicity). “Caution” is the least hazardous; “Danger” and “Poison” are the most.
- Notice how a product should be used. Some products will tell you to wear protective gear, use with ventilation, or take other precautions to avoid exposure. If you cannot use the product in a way that meets the label instructions, it is best not to buy that product.
- Know which green claims are meaningful. Not all “eco-friendly” claims are ones you can count on—but some certification for green products can be very helpful. When in doubt, use the web site at ecolabelindex.com to learn what labels mean.
How to reduce exposure to toxic products
When you do have to buy products that are hazardous, there are ways you can handle them to reduce exposure.
- Store toxics away from living spaces. Paints, adhesives, solvents and other materials that contain VOCs can release toxics to the air even when the lids are on. Store them where they won’t pollute indoor air.
- Take leftovers to household hazardous waste recycling. Most communities have either a facility or events for collecting unwanted hazardous materials. If your products are clearly labeled and in good shape, they may even go on a “give-away” table. Earth911.com can help you locate a collection event.
Signal words
If a product poses an immediate hazard, it must carry a signal word to describe the level of risk posed by its toxic, corrosive, irritant, or flammable properties. These signal words indicate the level of risk from immediate exposure:
CAUTION: Exposure could result in minor or moderate injury.
WARNING: A larger exposure can result in death or serious injury.
DANGER OR POISON: A minor exposure can result in death or serious injury.
Safer choices for household products
Some products are more toxic than they need to be for the job at hand. Consider these alternatives:
- Choose pump sprays over aerosol bottles. Aerosol sprays are so fine that they hang in the air and can be breathed deep into the lungs. A safer alternative is to use pump sprays. It is best to point them down, so that you are not exposed.
- Choose water-based inks, paints, glues and cements. Water-based solutions are not only less toxic, but they won’t require clean-up with paint thinners and hand cleaners that contain harsh chemicals.
- Try hot water for tough jobs. Hot water or steam can melt away greasy dirt, or kill germs without using harsh chemicals.
- Try good tools for tough jobs. A drain snake for unclogging a drain; a vacuum for removing pests; a good scrub brush and steel wool—all good alternatives to toxic formulas.