Tips to reduce toxic chemicals at home
Many everyday household products—like cleaners, furniture, and flooring—can contain toxic chemicals that may harm your health. These substances can build up in air and dust, increasing your exposure over time. Children and pets are especially vulnerable. These simple, low-cost tips can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals at home.
Dust isn’t just dirt—it can carry toxic chemicals
Since toxic chemicals can collect in dust, removing and preventing dust buildup around the home is one of the best ways to reduce your exposure:
Wipe dusty surfaces
Use a microfiber cloth or a damp rag to remove dust buildup. You can also use non-toxic cleaners or try one of our DIY cleaning recipes.
Vacuum with a HEPA filter
Vacuuming with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter prevents toxic particles from getting back into the air once they’ve been captured.
Leave your shoes at the door
Take your shoes off as soon as you get home so you don’t bring outside chemicals indoors.
Use safer cleaning products
Look for the Safer Choice label or make your own cleaning products (see below).
How to make your own safer cleaning products
These DIY (do-it-yourself) cleaning recipes use less-toxic ingredients you may already have at home.
Click through the recipe cards or read Healthier Living Starts at Home.
Other tips to reduce chemical exposure
Improve indoor air quality at home
Indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air. Reduce indoor air pollution with these simple tips:
- Open windows regularly to let in fresh air and improve ventilation.
- Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to remove moisture, smoke, and fumes.
- Install HEPA or high-MERV filters in air purifiers or HVAC systems to capture dust, allergens, and toxic chemicals.
- Avoid air fresheners and scented candles—they can release harmful chemicals.
Shop for safer products
Look for the following labels or search their database:
- Safer Choice (cleaning products).
- Design for the Environment (DfE) label (disinfectants and sanitizers).
- Cradle-to-Cradle certified (multiple product categories).
Check out our shopping for safer products for businesses webpage.
Dispose of hazardous household products properly
To ensure household products don’t pollute the environment, your community, or your home:
- Never put toxic chemicals in the trash or down the drain, sink, or toilet.
- Find recycling programs or household hazardous waste sites.
More tips to improve the health of your home
Related links
Contact information
Safer Products for Washington
SaferProductsWA@ecy.wa.gov
360-407-6700
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