Protect Your Children from Hidden Pesticides in Your Home

Some pesticides have been shown to cause cancer in humans, especially when people are exposed at high levels. Children are at increased risk for pesticide poisoning because of their smaller size and because pesticides may be applied to surfaces that are easily accessed by children.

Antibacterial Soaps and Disinfectants: May contain any number of 275 different active ingredients classified by the EPA as pesticides. Frequent use of antibacterial soaps selects for more resistant bacteria.

Alternative: Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with regular soap.

Mothballs: Can cause serious health problems if ingested or by inhaling the fumes. 1,4 Dichlorobenzene, found in mothballs, may be reasonably anticipated to be a carcinogen.

Alternative: Always keep mothballs out of reach of children. Use cedar balls or lavender sachets to ward off moths.

Synthetic Carpets: May contain anti-mildew pesticides, as well as toxic adhesives. Many chemicals used on carpets are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may cause carcinogens to be released into the air.

Alternatives: Choose alternative flooring: ceramic tiles, untreated hardwood, cotton or hemp rugs (with non-toxic adhesive and non-plastic backings.)

Paint: Several brands contain anti-mildew pesticides and emit VOCs. Test paint chips from walls and windows for lead, which is very dangerous to children's health.

Alternatives: Choose "No-VOC" or natural milk paints. Keep children away from chipping and peeling paint; clean sills with a damp rag.

References:

• National Cancer Institute: www.cancer.gov
• ATSDR: www.atsdr.cdc.gov