Simply put, a pollutant is a waste material that contaminates the air, soil or water. A household pollutant is one that is found within the parameters of a home. Some of the most common household pollutants are items that many houses have and no one would think of as a harmful or hazardous material. Both biological and chemical pollutants can appear in the home.
Biological
A biological pollutant is or once was a living organism, such as dust mites and cockroach parts, animal dander, bacteria or pollen. These are common indoor biological pollutants. They contaminate the air with poor air quality. They are often invisible to the unaided human eye. Mold is also a biological household pollutant that lives anywhere water can be found. Biological pollutants can cause allergic reactions including congestion, itching and headache, infections such as Legionnaires’ disease and some toxic reactions.
Combustion Gases
In homes with gas appliances, there are open flames present. This means that there is a buildup of nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide that form a common household pollutant. These gases can be present in the kitchen, basement, living room if there is a fireplace or furnace room. If the flame burns yellow or orange, it is a sign of higher pollutant levels. The ideal flame color is blue, according to WholeLiving.com. Combustion gases can cause headaches or poisonings. In 2008, an estimated 660 Americans were said to be killed by carbon monoxide poisoning, according to KitchenTableMedicine.com, a health-information website created by Dr. Nicole Sundene.
Pesticides
Indoor pesticides are a common household pollutant. These are products designed to kill living things like insects, plants, termites, rodents and fungi. Pesticides pose a problem when they are first used and they can linger in fabrics after the initial use. These products are considered “volatile” by the EPA and can cause breathing problems, skin irritation and dizziness. In the long run they have been linked to nervous system damage.
Phthalates
Phthalates are used in making plastics more durable and flexible. They also release gases into the air. Phthalates are found in toys, shower curtains, lotions, decorating and building products and some cosmetics. Phthalates may cause cancer, reproductive issues, endocrine disorders and developmental delays, according to Healthy Child, Healthy World, a nonprofit organization that aims to protect children from harmful chemicals.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde gives off a gas from the products it is used on, such as cushions, floors, cabinets and carpets. It is also considered a volatile organic compound. As a household pollutant, it can cause eye and upper respiratory system irritation and may cause cancer, according to KitchenTableMedicine.com.
Solvents
Solvents can be found in antiseptics, disinfectants, glues and air fresheners. They contain phenols and other chemicals that are harmful. Because many of these materials mix with water when cleaning, they enter the water table, which can cause contamination. Inhaling solvents can cause respiratory issues and if they are ingested can cause digestive issues. Phenols are also ignitable.
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