Reducing Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

Reducing your exposure to toxic chemicals and reducing impacts on the environment are important components to sustainable living at home. Non-toxic chemicals that work well and also save money can be substituted for many cleaning and garden products containing toxic chemicals. Following the label directions for use and being aware of the type of warning label on a product is very important. Don’t assume that chemicals you use everyday are not harmful to you or the environment. There are excellent substitutions for household cleaning supplies, garden pesticides, and solvents.

Check the label. Many household products used for household cleaning, car care or yard care can be toxic, corrosive, flammable or reactive. All of the designations are considered hazardous. The signal words on the label are "CAUTION," "WARNING" or "DANGER." "CAUTION" indicates a lower level of toxicity and "DANGER" is the highest level of toxicity.

General Rules for Managing Toxic Household Products

• Select the least toxic products for your home
• Buy only as much as you will use
• Read the label! It will list ingredients, instructions for use, storage, and disposal
• Avoid aerosol spray cans whenever possible. Buy liquid, paste or powder forms of products.
• Dispose of toxic waste as recommended visit http://www.pinellascounty.org/utilities/swapshop.htm for locations