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Household Products
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Safety Issues

Household Products

Many common household products contain ingredients that can be harmful to your family and the environment if not handled correctly.

Overview

The products you use for cleaning, carpentry, auto repair, gardening, and many other household uses can contain ingredients that can harm you, your family, and the environment. These include:

  • Oven and drain cleaners
  • Cleaning and disinfecting products, including bleach and antibacterial cleaners
  • Laundry powder
  • Floor polish
  • Paint thinners, strippers, and removers
  • Pesticides
  • Grease and rust removers
  • Motor oil and fuel additives
  • Arts and crafts supplies

Safety and Prevention

Toxic substances in these products can cause harm if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin. People respond to toxic substances in different ways. At high doses, a toxic substance might cause birth defects or other serious problems, including brain damage or death.

To avoid problems, keep products in the containers they come in and use them exactly as the label says. Follow label directions or get medical help if you swallow or inhale them or get them on your skin.

Environmental Protection Agency

Frequently Asked Questions

Flush the eyes with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes, keeping the eyelids open and rolling the eyes to ensure thorough rinsing. Remove contact lenses if present after the first few minutes of flushing. Seek emergency medical care even if pain subsides, as chemical burns can be delayed.
Keep all products in their original, clearly labeled containers and store them in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf out of reach. Use child‑proof latches, keep the area dry to prevent label degradation, and never transfer chemicals to food‑ or drink‑type containers.
Wear chemical‑resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene), safety goggles or a face shield, and a long‑sleeved, flame‑resistant lab coat or coveralls. Work in a well‑ventilated area or use a respirator with organic vapor cartridges if ventilation is inadequate.
Never pour oil down drains, toilets, or on the ground. Transfer the oil into a sealed, leak‑proof container and take it to a local hazardous‑waste collection site, auto‑parts store, or recycling program that accepts used oil. Some municipalities offer curbside pickup for household hazardous waste.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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