Air humidifiers
Humidifiers have become crucial for moisturizing dry air, both in summer and winter. However, questions keep about their safety, especially in young children’s bedrooms.
A study has found that both tap water and purified water applied in humidifiers consist of microorganisms after one night. Humidifiers boost bacterial growth because of the stagnant water they contain.
If you don’t keep your humidifier properly, harmful bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Legionella can proliferate, leading to various respiratory illnesses. Wash your humidifier’s tank thoroughly every other day and allow it to dry completely when not in use.
Dry cleaning
Clothes that are hard to wash are often sent to dry cleaners. However, dry cleaning relies on petroleum-derived substances such as benzene and ethylbenzene, which are harmful to health.
Perchloroethylene, the main substance applied, is a known carcinogen. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of esophageal, uterine, and bladder can.cers. Breathing these compounds can cause symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, memory problems, and skin rashes .
Remember to immediately get rid of the plastic from clothes coming out of the dry cleaners and let them air for 3 to 4 hours before putting them away in your wardrobe.
Cash register receipts
Cash register receipts, printed on thermal paper, consist of chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), a well-known endocrine disruptor.
Continued exposure to BPA can cause hormonal disruption, early puberty, birth defects, and be connected to uterine and breast ca.ncer, as well as diabetes and obesity. Control receipts with care. Hold the unprinted portion and avoid keeping them in your pockets or wallet.
