Household Products

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

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

Questions for your care team

General prompts to help prepare for your appointment.

• How does this information apply to my situation?
• Which symptoms or results need evaluation?
• Which tests are useful, and what can they tell us?
• What care options, benefits, and risks should we discuss?
• When should I seek urgent help, and whom should I call?
• When is follow-up, and how will we know whether the plan is working?