Dangers of toxins from household items identified

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Scientists from Germany have named the dangers of exposure to toxic substances in the air through household items. This is especially true in the first weeks of using the goods.

According to experts, many new household appliances, furniture or building materials emit odors and pollutants that pose a threat to the health of their owner. Examples include formaldehyde, plasticizers, emissions from vinyl, parquet or carpet coverings (especially those that are firmly installed), adhesives, varnishes, plywood, asbestos fibres, wood preservatives such as pentachlorophenol, polychlorinated biphenyls, mould, yeast and bacteria. A particularly strong load on the air in the room comes from recently purchased furniture. Typical symptoms of illness caused by pollutants in the air include headaches, eye and mucous membrane irritation or impaired concentration.

When choosing household items, it is worth relying on environmental labels. For example, when buying a box spring bed, the consumer is advised to keep it in a well-ventilated room for some time. For electrical appliances, it is wise to read the fine print in the operating instructions, as there is often a hidden indication that the devices should only be operated with the window open. It is also worth being more careful when using household appliances that heat up during initial use, including steam stations, ovens, and toasters. They are also better used with ventilation.