Household Chemicals That Were Once in Every Home but Are Big No-No's Today
These chemicals were formerly praised as domestic heroes, trusted to protect, clean, and even "heal." However, science and hindsight have shown their darker edges. So, continue reading to uncover 10 once-accepted items that we have prudently removed from our homes, ranging from glowing tonics to poisonous bug sprays.
Asbestos
When it came to fireproofing everything from ironing boards to attic insulation, asbestos was the material of choice. It seemed to be a miraculous substance - until we discovered that it was subtly damaging lungs. It is now strictly off-limits!
Lead
Lead paint gave pipes a strong edge and walls a rich, glossy shine. Unfortunately, it also caused a variety of health concerns for adults and developmental problems for children. These days, we’d rather not have a mental fog in our plumbing and décor.
Chloroform
Chloroform was strangely adaptable; it was once included in cleaning goods and even as a sedative (believe it or not!) However, its potentially fatal dark side finally caught up with it. It is now less of a household staple and more of a warning story.
Carbon Tetrachloride
This powerful cleaning agent was used in a wide range of things, including fire extinguishers and dry cleaning. But, shockingly, it was found to be harmful to the kidneys and liver. These days, we've replaced it with safer options that don't harm organs (thankfully!).
Radium
In the past, radium was popular for "health" tonics and glow-in-the-dark devices. It was actually thought to increase vitality - until it began to cause radiation illness - what a plot twist! It is now a shining example of why skepticism and science should coexist.
DDT (Indoor Insecticide)
DDT was the preferred insecticide back in the day, which was widely sprayed in gardens and residences. It was fantastic - until it began to hurt animals and, most likely, people as well. We are a little pickier about what we spray into our precious air these days.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used to maintain furniture coatings and freshen the air. But on the downside, it’s also a possible carcinogen and lung irritant. These days, we're more inclined to open a window than to depend on a chemical that has an uncanny science lab odor.
Boric Acid
Boric acid was popular among do-it-yourselfers for cleaning and pest control. Before research connected it to female health damage, it appeared to be innocuous enough, which makes it all the more terrifying. Nowadays, we would rather hire an expert than scatter dubious powders across our homes!
Mercury
Because of its silvery charm, mercury used to be frequently found in cleaning products and thermometers. However, it has the damaging ability of lingering in the environment and is a neurotoxin. It is now completely forbidden for domestic use and should only be appreciated from a safe scientific distance.
Trisodium Phosphate
The secret weapon for removing dirt from dishes and laundry was TSP. It was a huge success, but it also ruined ecosystems and contaminated streams. These days, we've exchanged its industrial might for kinder, more environmentally friendly substitutes that nonetheless perform the job well.
