Household bleach is used for cleaning and disinfecting and can also be used in “bleach baths” as a medical treatment for atopic dermatitis. Swallowing, inhaling, or injecting bleach can cause serious medical problems.
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Fiberglass is often used by mattress manufacturers to meet fire safety standards. Fiberglass may be present in mattress foam or covers, and human exposures to fiberglass can occur when mattress covers are unzipped or removed. Health effects from fiberglass exposure can include eye injuries, skin irritation, and lung disease.
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Some drywall (gypsum board) imported in the early 2000s can emit sulfurous gases, resulting in damage to copper wiring and pipes, as well as some human health effects. When wet, drywall can be affected by mold.
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A variety of cleaning products are available to maintain wood floors. Wood floor cleaners are usually based on hydrocarbons, detergents, or glycol ether solvents. Each type carries its own precautions and potential adverse effects. Floor cleaners can also contain alcohol, weak acids, or alkaline chemicals to strengthen their cleaning properties.
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Ice packs are common household items; some are intended for single-use only, while others are intended to be reused many times. Typically, unintentionally swallowing some of their liquid contents usually causes minor effects such as mouth irritation. However, depending on the ingredients and the amount swallowed, ice packs do have the potential to cause toxicity.
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Vinyl chloride is a synthetic chemical used in PVC manufacturing and is also a component of cigarette smoke. Short-term inhalation of vinyl chloride vapors can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause headaches and dizziness. Chronic exposure to vinyl chloride is associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.
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At one time, the usual sources of lead poisoning were lead paint and leaded gasoline. Now, more unusual sources of lead poisoning include jewelry, cosmetics, imported herbal and traditional medicines, and even hobby supplies. Lead poisoning damages the nervous system but the symptoms can be misleading. Lead poisoning can only be diagnosed with a blood test.
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There are many sources of bad smells in and around the home including spoiled food, mold, volatile organic chemicals, leaky or backed-up pipes and drains, and pet odors. Mixing some household cleaners such as bleach and ammonia or acid can produce toxic fumes. Some toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide are odorless. Symptoms of toxicity will depend on the gas.
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When used as directed, bath bombs and bath fizzies are safe. Skin irritation can occur in some people, and eye irritation is expected to occur if splashed in the eyes. Unintentional ingestion of small amounts is expected to cause minor effects such as oral irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
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Antifreeze is a sweet-tasting poison. Studies show that adding a bittering agent to antifreeze does not decrease poisonings or suicides with antifreeze.
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