These Household Items Could Kill You - Part 3

If you missed the parts 1 and 2, you can find them HERE and HERE.

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9. Multipurpose cleaners

The multipurpose cleaners widely used for windows and kitchen items have 2-butoxyethanol, the ingredient that gives cleaners their distinct smell. Many products don’t list this harmful chemical on the label because they are not legally required to do so. Side effects include breathing problems, low blood pressure, lowered levels of hemoglobin, and metabolic acidosis (high levels of acid in the body), according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

10. Old medication

Expired medical products can be less effective or risky due to a change in chemical composition or a decrease in strength, according to the FDA. Certain old meds are at risk of bacterial growth. Sub-potent antibiotics can fail to treat infections, leading to more serious illnesses and antibiotic resistance.

11. Pressed-wood products

In 2016, EPA published a final rule to reduce exposure to formaldehyde emissions from certain wood products. Acute and chronic health effects of formaldehyde vary depending on the individual, according to the CDC. Common symptoms from acute exposure to formaldehyde manifest as irritation of the throat, nose, eyes, and skin. This upper respiratory tract irritation can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Chronic exposure can also lead to chronic bronchitis, and obstructive lung disease.

12. Old air filters

A poorly maintained AC system can become contaminated and potentially harmful, studies suggest. Moisture-related HVAC components such as cooling coils and humidification systems may be sources of contaminants that cause adverse health effects. Findings also provide an initial suggestion that outdoor air intakes lower than 18 stories in office buildings may be associated with substantial increases in many symptoms such as worsening asthma problems and allergies.