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21 Everyday Chemicals Guide: Where They Lurk & How to Avoid Them

Guide to chemicals with smoke swirl along a white wall.
Picture of Artemis

Artemis

Hi! I'm a sex-positive environmentalist. And this is How i Healthy.
The goal? Green Living: Kitchen to Bedroom.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Are you ready for this Chemicals Guide?

Buckle up!

Below you’ll find a LONG list of chemicals/contaminates/nasty things to avoid.

You’ll learn where they’re found, and how to avoid them.

A note about exposure & avoiding chemicals:

Because of environmental racism, Black, Indigenous, and Latinx communities are disproportionally impacted by chemical exposures while simultaneously having fewer resources to leverage to avoid exposure.

These books expose these issues through data and research in great detail. They are great reads:

Chemicals Guide A-E

1. 1,4-Dioxane

1, 4-Dioxane, or dioxins for short, is a synthetic industrial chemical. It is a contaminant by-product produced during some industrial processes. (43)

Where is it Found?

  • Chlorinated bleach period products e.g., tampons, pads, and panty liners.
  • Deodorants
  • Foaming body care products.
  • Paints, grease, wax, dyes
  • Chemical waste can contaminate groundwater and soil, thus contaminating drinking water.

(43, 45, 47, 49, 117)

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), dioxins link to nose and throat irritation, kidney and liver damage, vomiting, and death. (43, 44)

Dioxins are a byproduct of production. It is not required on product ingredient labels. (31)

1, 4-Dioxane is a carcinogen, according to California’s Proposition 65. (32)

In 2002, a study tested 1,4-Dioxane levels in four different brands of tampons and diapers. The findings? 1,4-Dioxane was detectable in tampons and diapers. But the risk of dioxin was not “significantly contributing to dioxin exposures in the US.” (117)

But this study did not consider the permeable tissues of the perineum or the duration of exposure. An important factor because most folks who use these products do so for decades. (115, 116)

How to Avoid It:

1,4-Dioxane is a prevalent contaminant. It’s difficult to avoid altogether. But doing what we can to limit our exposure.

  1. Choose organic products, not just organic food.
    • A study on 100 products from companies like Kiss My Face®, Jason®, Whole Foods 365®, Alba®, Method®, Seventh Generation®, and Dr. Bronner’s® revealed that nearly half of the products tested had dioxin contamination. But the researchers concluded that products marked with the USDA® Organic certification generally had none. (45)
    • Choosing organic products, not just food, with the USDA seal might limit exposure.
    • 100% Organic Cotton Period Products are an option for some folks.
  2. Read labels.
    • Dioxins do not require disclosure on labels. Look for ingredients like PEG, polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethyelene, polyoxynolethylene, and chemicals ending in –eth and –oxynol. These chemicals often mean 1,4-dioxane contamination. (48)
  3. Activated carbon reverse osmosis water filter.
    • According to the World Health Organization, drinking water contamination is low. But in-home water filters equipped with activated charcoal and reverse osmosis filters can further reduce potential exposure (46, 47, 48).
  4. Use unbleached coffee filters. Use a French press.
    • The bleaching process can cause 1,4-dioxane contamination in paper goods. (47, 49)
    • According to the EPA, the exposure risk of dioxane contamination in coffee filters is low. (49)
    • But most of the research is over 40 years old and does not account for long term exposure (Coffee for decades!). Plus, dioxin can accumulate in the body for 7-11 years. Even small daily exposure has the potential to compound. (47)
    • Make the switch to unbleached coffee filters or try a French Press.

2. Atrazine, Herbicides, & Pesticides

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Where is it Found?

  • Drinking water
  • Herbicide
  • Non-organic produce and cotton products like tampons

Atrazine is a herbicide for crops. Studies link it to endocrine disruption, reduced fertility and sperm count, birth defects, and cancer. (50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55) 

In one study, 80% of drinking water tested contained concentrations of atrazine above 3ppb (parts per billion); exceeding the EPA standards for allowable amounts of contamination. (55)

Pesticides, which go by many names, also pose health concerns. The EPA confirms that many of the approved pesticides are “possible”, “probable”, “likely”, and “known” carcinogens. (189)

Testing of non-organic cotton tampons reveled three of these suspected carcinogen pesticides. (190, 192)

Besides the carcinogen risks, pesticides aren’t good for our Earth either. Pesticides are regarded as biohazards that disrupt environmental equilibrium, kill pollinators, and don’t biodegrade. (185, 186, 187, 188)

How to Avoid It:

  1. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) recommends activated carbon water filters. Look for filters that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 53. (55)
    • APEC® water filter systems are great, made in the USA, and are NSF certified.
  2. By organic produce. If unable to, wash produce well before eating.
  3. Choose organic products and clothing. If finances are a concern, focus on Organic Period Products. These products come in contact with the most vascular parts of the body. And often for decades. (115, 116)

3. Benzocaine

Benzocaine is a numbing agent.

Where is it Found?

  • Chemical sunscreen
  • Personal lubricants
  • Teething gels for infants

 (1, 58, 118)

In lubes, benzocaine can decrease sensitivity or prevent the gag reflex. Numbing parts of our bodies limit our ability to detect harm, such as tissue tearing. It also can cause contact dermatitis. (1)

In 2018, the FDA issued a safety announcement against benzocaine teething gels. Benzocaine can increase the risk of methemoglobinemia, a rare but life-threatening condition where oxygen to the brain is reduced. Plus, benzocaine’s can suppress the gag reflex, increase choking risk in children. (58)

Benzocaine is also in sunscreen, after sun products, and sunburn care. (118)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Choose Natural Lubricants without benzocaine.
  2. Use Natural Rubber Teething Toys for infants and skip the teething ointments.
  3. Choose Benzocaine-free sunscreens like Badger® Clear Zinc SPF 40 or Earth Harbor SPF 30 Sheer Face Sunscreen.
  4. Use Aloe Vera (with no extra junk) for sunburn relief. (It’s great for More than Sunburns!)

4. BPA: Bisphenol A

BPA has a long history. I’ll try to summarize.

Bisphenol A, also called BPA, has been around since the 1890’s. Considered an artificial estrogen, BPA (also called diethylstilbestrol/DES) was used in medical treatments. (56)

During the 1950’s, BPA became the go-to material for plastics, not only hormone therapies. (56)

But after links to vaginal cancer were found, DES was banned as a medical treatment in the 1970’s. (56)

So, BPA found its way into non-medical industries. Products like electronics, automobiles, toys, baby bottles, and aluminum cans. By the 1980’s, the plastic market boomed. BPA production in the United States reached almost one billion pounds per year. (56)

By the 2000’s research mounted against the safety of BPA. BPA exposure linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive harm, cancer, and behavioral problems. (101, 102, 103)

But in 2007, Sciences International, the agency reviewing BPA toxicity, released a report contradictory to most other research of the day. It claimed that BPA posed no risk. Turns out though, Sciences International, had some conflicts of interest. The agency had ties to the manufacturing and production of BPA. (56)

In 2008, the National Toxicology Program confirmed the detrimental effects BPA could cause. Within days, the Canadian government declared BPA toxic. Both American and Canadian consumers demanded BPA-free products. (56)

In recent years, bans on BPA products in children’s toys, canned food, and baby bottles have passed at the state level across the United States.

Maybe that wasn’t so brief…Here’s the abridge version:

Where is it Found?

  • Canned foods
  • Children’s toys
  • Plastics, including food storage plastics, cutting boards, and water bottles. 

How to Avoid It:

BPA is practically everywhere. While eliminating exposer at this point is close to impossible, there are some ways to reduce exposure.

  1. Avoid canned foods. Buy fresh and frozen produce if possible.
  2. Enjoy food prep on a Solid Wood Cutting Board.
  3. Opt out of plastics as best you can. Use glass products for water bottles, food containers, baby bottles, etc.
  4. Choose children’s toys made from non-plastic materials, like wood. Earth Hero® has many good options.
  5. Choose BPA-free Sex Toys.
  6. Use a BPA-free Water Filter. Some filters have BPA in them, and can contaminate water.

5. Chemical UV Blockers

Chemicals used to block UV light. There are many different kinds/names:

  • Avobenzone
  • Benzophenone
  • Ethylhexyl salicylate
  • Homosalate
  • Octinoxate
  • Octisalate
  • Octocrylene
  • Oxybenzone

(152)

Benzophenone as a carcinogen . Benzophenone is also an endocrine and hormone disruptor detectable in breast milk and urine. (153, 156, 157)

Oxybenzone links to coral reef bleaching, algae die off, neurotoxicity, and marine life infertility. (154, 155, 156, 157)

Where is it Found?

  • Chemical-based sunscreens

How to Avoid It:

  1. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens. The Sunscreen Guide explores this topic in depth.
  2. Badger® Clear Zinc SPF 40 or Earth Harbor SPF 30 Sheer Face Sunscreen Are my favorite mineral-based sunscreens.

Chemicals Guide F-N

6. Flame Retardants

Flame-retardants go by many names.

Like: TRIS, Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, Brominated phthalate fire retardants, Chlorinated phosphate fire retardants, TDCPP, and BFRs.

Chemical flame-retardants date to the 1970’s to prevent fires caused by cigarettes. As much as 90% of upholstery fires at the time were due to cigarette use. (60)

Today there are over 175 different flame-retardants. (64)

Where is it Found?

  • Camping tents
  • Car seats and strollers
  • Carpet/carpet padding
  • Furniture, mattresses, upholstery
  • Loose fitting infant and Children’s sleepwear

(61, 64, 126, 127, 193, 194)

That said, not all children’s sleepwear has chemical flame-retardants. Both the US and Canada require clothing have flame-retardants or be tight fitting. (126, 127)

Flame-retardants link to decreased fertility and sperm count, altered hormone levels, and neurotoxicity. (62, 63)

Flame-retardants, especially those present in clothing, can pass to skin. Flame-retardants are detectable in urine, placentas, and breast milk. (59, 65)

How to Avoid It:

It can be difficult to avoid flame retardants completely. It’s in many things and chemical-free options are limited and expensive.

Focus on what you spend the most time with, like your mattress. The Mattress Guide dives more into why.

Or focus on the most vulnerable in your family, which are infants. Car seats and infant mattresses are two flame retardant heavy hitters. And infants spend a lot of time in them. 

  1. Opt for furniture, mattresses, pillows, and car seats made with wool. Wool is naturally flame resistant and passes flammability testing without adding chemical flame retardants (125).
  2. Remove carpets and choose flooring materials like tile. Or skip the flooring and have your concrete slab polished and sealed with a VOC-free sealant.
  3. Avoid flame retardant clothing. Choosing certified organic cotton without flame retardants or 100% wool clothing can help limit your exposure.
  4. If you camp, opt for a flame-retardant free tent. 

7. Fragrance & Phthalates

The word “fragrance” is vague. And so are the chemicals that comprise it.

Where is it Found?

  • Cosmetics, soap, shampoo, lotion, body care products
  • Disinfectant spray & wipes
  • Lube
  • Plastics, vinyl flooring
  • Scented candles, room sprays, detergents
  • Sex toys
  • Tampons, pads, panty liners

 (2, 5, 6, 39, 135, 183)

Companies are not required to disclose what “fragrance” actually means. That’s because the FDA considers it a “trade secret,” (2). Often these “fragrances” include chemicals such as phthalates.

Phthalates leach out of products and do not biodegrade easily. Aquatic wildlife and drinking water sources are polluted with phthalates. Not only can we ingest them, but Phthalates can also pass through the skin and into our bodies. (5, 39, 183)

Pregnant people with high levels of phthalates in their blood and urine are more likely to have children with birth defects. (3, 4, 5)

The International Fragrance Association has a master list of “fragrance” chemicals. Not surprising it includes carcinogens, irritants, allergens, and potential endocrine disruptors. (6)

Phthalates also link to lower testosterone synthesis, sperm count, decreased fertility, and sperm DNA damage. (4, 7, 8, 119)

Phthalates can cause an early onset puberty and premature breast development (66, 120).

Because of these health concerns, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission now prohibits certain phthalates in children’s toys and care childcare products. (41)

But not adult toys. I’m talking about sex toys. (39). The Sustainable Sex Toys Guide explains it all.

How to Avoid It:

Phthalates are everywhere. It’s hard to avoid phthalates completely. It’s all about limiting exposure:

  1. Avoid products listening “fragrance”. This includes soaps, shampoos, detergents, intimate products, and lotions.
    1. All My Favorite Products are free of artificial fragrance.
    2. For skincare, Earth Harbor is the only thing I’ll put on my face. It’s free of Phthalates & artificial fragrance. See the Earth Harbor Review for more!
  2. When burning candles, light USA made fragrance-free 100% Beeswax Candles. 
  3. Choose children’s toys made from non-plastic materials like wood. See Earth Hero® for some great options. 
  4. Choose Sex Toys made from stainless steel, glass, or medical grade silicone.
  5. Avoid plastic anywhere you can. Swap out plastic food containers for glass and avoid heating food in plastic.
  6. Choose fragrance free Organic Period Products.

8. Glycerin/Glycerol

Glycerin/glycerol is a viscous liquid.

Where is it Found?

  • Condoms
  • Cosmetics, soap, shampoo, lotion, body care products
  • Foods and beverages as thickening agent
  • Lubes

(9, 10, 70)

The big issue with glycerin/glycerol is osmolality. Because of its humectant properties, it draws in moisture. Like a dry sponge.  This has pros and cons. (70, 168)

 On hair, it can draw moisture from the air. If its humid out, you’ll get more moisture. But depending on your hair structure, it could be too much. Causing frizz. (70)

If the climate is arid, Glycerin/glycerol can pull moisture from your hair. Drying it out. (70)

Glycerin/glycerol can work in some cases but could also be the source of hair problems. Depending on your hair type and the climate.

Now, apply those concepts to lube. Lubes with Glycerin/glycerol are called Hyperosmolal, or high-osmolality, lube. It works like a dry sponge.

Used internally, glycerin/glycerol draws moisture away from tissue. Drying it out. Yep Glycerin/glycerol lube can dry out the vagina, anus, or mouth. (169, 170, 171, 172)

Worse? It can dehydrate tissue cells, leading to tissue damage, death, and increased susceptibility to bacterial infection, pH disruption, and STIs. (10, 11, 12, 169, 170, 171, 172)

How to Avoid It:

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

  1. Choose Condoms and Natural Lube without glycerin/glycerol.
  2. Read labels of body and hair care products. Avoid products with glycerin if you find these dry out your hair or skin.

9. N-Nitrosamine

A known carcinogen found in some condoms. (13)

Where is it Found?

  • Condoms

In one study, 16 of 23 condoms tested by exceeded EU regulations for children’s toys. Children’s toys intended for use by mouth or by children under the age of three. (13)

The study also states one condom exceeded California’s Propositions 65 limits. (13)

Children’s toys and N-Nitrosamine don’t mix, why should condoms be different.

How to Avoid It:

  1. Choose natural rubber latex Condoms without N-Nitrosamine.

10. Nonoxynol-9

Nonoxynol-9 is a spermicidal. (137)

Where is it Found?

  • Condoms
  • Spermicidal products & lubes

Not only does this stuff damage sperm, but it can also damage tissue and alter bacterial flora. This increases the risk of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. (10, 14, 15, 16, 137, 139)

Nonoxynol-9 can also cause inflammation of the genital mucosa. (17)

Clinical testing shows that Nonoxynol-9 can be absorbed rapidly through the vagina and pass into the bloodstream. (18, 19)

Nonoxynol-9 in condoms does not provide any extra protection against pregnancy either, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). (20) 

The FDA now requires packaging disclosures for condoms with Nonoxynol-9. (21)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Choose Condoms without nonoxynol-9/spermicide.
  2. Avoid spermicidal products and opt for Natural Lubricants instead.

Chemicals Guide M-P

11. Parabens

Parabens are a chemical preservative used to extend the shelf life. (197)

Where is it Found?

  • Body care products, soap, lotion, sunscreen, deodorant
  • Cosmetics, makeup
  • Hair products, shampoo
  • Lube
  • Processed foods

(71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 135, 197)

Parabens are transdermal. Meaning it can pass through skin and into our bodies. (71)

In a 2019 study, makeup users had 20% higher levels of parabens detected in urine than those that did not use makeup. (71)

Sunscreen, deodorant, cologne, lotion, and hair product use can link to higher levels of parabens detected in urine. (72, 73, 74)

Parabens are associated with hormonal imbalance and endocrine disruption. This can lead to decreased fertility, sperm count, and sperm motility. Parabens link to birth defects, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. (22, 23)

Parabens can have environmental impacts. Butylparaben, a paraben in sunscreen, can destroy aquatic ecosystems and cause coral bleaching. (76)

The EU banned certain parabens and defined several others as endocrine disruptors. (37,77)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Read those labels and avoid products listing parabens.
    • Parabens can go by many names like “methyl”, “butyl”, “propyl”, or “benzy”,
  2. The Lube Guide only has paraben-free options listed.
  3. Check out My Favorite Products, all of which are paraben-free.
  4. A special shout out to Elate® Cosmetics for their awesome paraben-free makeup.
  5. Another awesome company? Earth Harbor! This skincare line is the only thing I’ll put on my face. It’s free of parabens (and lots of other things I avoid).

12. Para-Phenylenediamine (PPD)

PPD, is an additive.

Where is it Found?

  • “Black” henna
  • Hair Dye

Fun Fact: It was also voted the “Allergen of the Year” several times by the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS). (129, 130)

PPD is prohibited in cosmetics but not in hair dye. (130)

Allergic reactions to PPD include dermatitis, edema, blisters, eyelid swelling, hypopigmentation, keloid scarring, urticaria (hives), inflammation, anaphylaxis, and death. These reactions be mild but worsen over time with recurrent applications. (129, 131, 132)

 “Black henna”, a misleading and dangerous concoction, is henna mixed with PPD. (130)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Use Henna to Dye Hair Naturally, and ditch the chemical dyes. By the way, you can do more than just red! Henna with other plant dyes can make browns, blacks, blondes, and everything in-between!
  2. If you do use henna for hair or skin, use good quality henna, like Ancient Sunrise®  and not  “black henna” which often has PPD. (130)

13. Perchlorate

Perchlorate is an environmental contaminant.

Where is it Found?

  • Explosives, rocket fuel, fireworks
  • Fertilizers, crops, soil
  • Infant formula
  • Ground and drinking water
  • Medications
  • Milk

 (78, 79, 80)

Perchlorate can decrease the transport of iodine (as iodide) in the body. Iodine is a nutrient the thyroid uses for hormone synthesis. Decreased iodine, or an iodine deficiency, can lead to thyroid issues like hyperplasia, hypertrophy, and hypothyroidism. Perchlorate is often associated with thyroid disorders. (78, 79)

Despite its widespread contamination and adverse health effects, regulation of perchlorate is limited. Avoiding it entirely might not be possible.

How to Avoid It:

  1. Choose organic produce grown without chemical fertilizers. If not possible, wash produce thorughly before eating.
  2. Don’t use fireworks and avoid areas with firework pollution.
  3. Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns about iodine deficiency, thyroid disorders, or iodine supplementation.
  4. Use activated carbon reverse osmosis Water Filter to remove perchlorate from drinking water. (80

14. Perfluorinated Chemicals

Perfluorinated chemicals are chemical compounds. Not to be confused with fluoride, a naturally occurring trace mineral.

They go by many names: PFCS, PTFE, PFOC, PFOA, PFAs, Teflon, Non-Stick, “stain resistant fabric”, and “water resistant fabric”.

Where is it Found?

  • Bras, leggings, athleticwear
  • Drinking water
  • Microwave popcorn bags
  • Non-stick coatings on cookware like Teflon (pre 2013)
  • Nonstick coated ovens
  • Period products, especially period underwear.
  • Stain resistant fabrics & carpets
  • Water resistant/repellent fabrics like: rain gear, tents, backpacks, water repellent, snow gear, winter coats.

 (81, 198, 199, 204)

Perfluorinated chemicals go by many names like: PFCS, PFOC, PFOA, PFAS, Teflon, non-stick.

Most folks use the acronym PFAS to mean all perfluorinated chemicals.

Regardless of the name, these all link to genotoxicity, DNA fragmentation, endocrine disruption, reduced fecundity, infertility, kidney disorders, thyroid & hormone disruption, and metabolic dysfunction. Several studies have noted the PFAs might link to several types of cancer. This health concerns impact humans and animal species alike. (82, 83, 84, 202, 203)

Perfluorinated chemicals are found everywhere in the world, including the North and South Pole. It has been found in marine, soil, and atmosphere samples across the globe. It bioaccumulates, meaning it does not break down. (203)

Typical water treatment plants do not filter out perfluorinated chemicals. Consumption through drinking water is the highest exposure for most people around the world. (203)

And perfluorinated chemicals are under-regulated in most products and industries in the USA. Allowing for widespread exposure. To compound this issue, most official health agencies have conflicting statements about the safety or these chemicals, often omitting relevant studies, data, and evidence pointing to toxicity. (201, 202, 203)

In 2013, the US Environmental Protection Agency set standards to remove perfluorinated chemicals from non-stick cookware. (85)

But perfluorinated chemicals exist in many other places still.

Like period products. PFAs have been found in period underwear (resulting in a class action lawsuit), tampons, and pads. (205, 206, 207, 208)

And ‘PFAS’ in outdoor gear is EVERYWHERE.

Coats, tents, raingear, snow gear, shoes, active wear, leggings. Everything.

These PFAS shed off gear and contaminate the environment further. It’s ironic that many nature enthusiasts for years have unknowingly introduced toxic PFAS into the Earth’s most remote places.

More companies are making steps to eliminating PFASs and other perfluorinated chemicals from their products. But it’s a slow transition. It will take years before an entire line is transitioned.

Till then: read the fine print.

How to Avoid It:

It’s really hard to avoid entirely.  But there are a few ways to reduce exposure:

  1. Ditch non-stick cookware, or at least Pre-2013 non-stick. (81)
  2. Do not heat non-stick cookware above 280°C/536°F. (86, 124)
  3. Do not use the “self clean” feature on non-stick coated ovens. (86, 124)
  4. Pop corn the old-fashioned way! Ditch the bagged stuff and opt for air popped or stove top popped. (81)
  5. Use an activated carbon reverse osmosis Water Filter to remove perfluorinated chemicals from drinking water. (87)
  6. Use 100% Organic Cotton Period Products.
  7. While I prefer to shop at thrift stores, old & used gear is likely to have PFAS. So, buying new, vintage (pre-PFAS), or used natural materials (like wool & leather) are the better way to go.
    • PFAS Central has an excellent directory of PFAS-free brands & products.
    • For a robust ski jacket, Houdini is awesome. Made in Japan with biodegradable plant-based water repellent, OrganoTex. You can find their stuff (sometimes on sale) at REI.
    • For plastic-free wool-based jackets, Wooly® NatureDry is the way to go. Or find a sheepskin or wool coat at your thrift store, my sheepskin coat cost me $30. And is the best coat I’ve ever worn.
    • Arms of Andes for 100% alpaca wool underwear & bras (harder to by those secondhand). No PFAS, no plastics, no toxic dyes. The entire line is biodegradable, single origin, supports Peruvian family & farms, and so much more! Seriously, these folks are great.

15. Petrochemicals

When we think petroleum and petrochemicals obvious things like oil, fuel, greases and synthetic rubbers come to mind. But petrochemicals lurk in many places.

Ant they go by a few names: Polyethylene Glycols (PEG), Propylene Glycol, Petroleum, Plastics, Polypropylene, polyethylene.

And of course, microplastics.

Where is it Found?

  • Condoms
  • Cosmetics, soap, shampoo, lotion, body care products
  • Cutting boards
  • Personal lubricants
  • Petroleum Jelly
  • Plastics
  • Synthetic Clothing

(27, 28, 121, 166)

Products like these do more than create the physical waste polluting the earth and oceans. Its creation requires crude oil or natural gas that releases greenhouse gas emissions and VOCs (more below) into the environment. (164)

PEG compounds can also contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, cobalt, cadmium, and arsenic. (121)

Conventional lubes with PEG compounds can cause damage to the tissues of the vagina. (27,28).

Synthetic clothing is, to some degree, plastic. Synthetic clothing can release microplastics that pollute water supply, oceans, and landfills. It travels via the grey water from washing machines and dryer lint. 35% of microplastic pollution comes from synthetic clothing. (167)

Plastic cuttings boards made from polyethylene and polypropylene contaminate food and are a “substantial source of microplastics in human food, which requires careful attention”, according to a study by North Dakota State University. (210)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Avoid plastics when possible. And remember, plastics don’t just mean hard plastics. There’s plenty of plastics in body products too.
  2. Read labels. Avoid products that include wording like; “PEG”, “polyethylene glycol”, “glycol ethers”, “2-butoxyethanol (EGBE),” and “methoxydiglycol (DEGME)”.
  3. Check out these guides to for petrochemical-free Condoms, Lube, and Body care products.
  4. For makeup, Elate® Cosmetics is all I’ll put on my face.
  5. Opt for natural fibers for clothing and avoid synthetics that can shed microplastics.
    • Choose 100% cotton from your local thrift store for most items.
    • And Arms of Andes for plastic-free alpaca wool bras and underwear (hard to buy those used!). Even the bands are natural biodegradable rubber!
  6. Use a Solid Wood Cutting Board. Treeboard is a gorgeous cutting board. Microplastic-free, glue-free, mineral oil-free, and made in the USA! Seriously, the best cutting board out there.

16. Polyvinyl Alcohol

Greenwashing Alert. This is a sneaky one. 

That’s why I gave it a sperate distinction from petrochemicals.

PVA is plastic. And it’s often found in “plastic-free” laundry detergent pods and strips. (209)

Where is it Found?

  • Laundry detergent pods and strips

(209)

~17,000 metric tons of PVA are used in laundry pods and strips per year. (209)

Landry detergent pods and sheets often use PVA while claiming to be “plastic-free” or “biodegradable” in water.

However, the science backing this this statement is limited. In fact, studies show the exact opposite. (209)

PVA does not breakdown in most wastewater treatment facilities in the USA. (209)

PVA can leech into groundwater, and alter gas exchanges, like carbon dioxide. Both impact aquatic ecosystems. (209)

The total environmental impact of PVA is not yet fully understood. More research is needed.

How to Avoid It:

  1. Avoid laundry detergent pods and laundry sheets/strips. Even the ones that claim to biodegrade.
  2. Use laundry detergent powder. I like Meliora® Laundry Powder and Bleach-Free Oxygen Brightener.

Chemicals Guide Q-Z

17. Quats

Quats, or ammonium quaternary compounds, are EPA registered pesticides. Quats kill bacteria.

Quats have many names, including:

  • Benzalkonium Chloride
  • Benzethonium chloride
  • Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chlorides (C12-16)
  • Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (C14 60%, C16 30%, C12 5%, C18 5%)
  • Alkyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chloride (C12-14)
  • Alkyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chlorides (C12-18)
  • Didecyldimethylammonium chloride
  • Dioctyldimethylammonium chloride

(184)

Where is it Found?

  • Household cleaners
  • Disinfectant sprays & wipes
  • Antibacterial soaps
  • Toilet cleaners
  • Sex toy cleaners

(175, 183, 184)

Killing bacteria sounds good right? But it’s not that simple.

Some bacteria are now quat resistant. Repercussions from overused quat disinfectants.  (176)

Quat resistant bacteria are often antibiotic resistant as well. Antibiotic resistance has already affected medical care and outcomes for people around the world. (176, 177, 183)

Studies on rats found Quats can kill beneficial vaginal bacteria, decrease fertility and sperm motility, and cause neural tube defects in offspring. (173, 174, 179, 180, 181, 182)

Quats also build up on surfaces and the environment. They stick around. Up to months. Quarts are hard to remove. So just because that disinfectant dried, it doesn’t mean quats are gone. (179)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Ditch the disinfectant sprays and wipes.
  2. Opt for non-antibacterial Soap, Dish Soap, and Natural Cleaners when cleaning most things around the house.
  3. Wash your sex toys with just soap and water. No need for fancy quat-filled cleaners.

18. Silicone

Silicone isn’t a ‘chemical’ or ‘contaminate’ for the purpose of this guide.

But I’ve added it here because silicone is often misunderstood (like “Biodegradable Bioplastic”)

Silicon is the naturally occurring element, silica, heated up. Silicone is a synthetic polymer that requires petroleum or natural gas to form. (139, 138)

Here’s how silicone is made:

  1. First, there’s Silica, or more accurately, silicon dioxide (SiO2) because it’s linked by oxygen (O). It’s the most abundance substance on Earth. It’s found in beach sand, quartz, and most rocks.
  2. Silicon dioxide is heated with carbon (typically charcoal). This creates silicon. Silicon is a semiconductor, perfect for electronics, circuits, and microchips. Silicon and computer tech? Ring a bell? Silicon Valley, in San Francisco.
  3. Silicon then reacts with fossil fuel-derived hydrocarbons, typically petroleum or natural gas. This creates Silicone, a flexible, heat-resistant, and plastic-like material used in many applications.

(139, 138)

Silicone has many characteristics:

  • Silky Smooth: Found in lotions, hair products, paint, and lubricants.
  • Heat-Resistant: Found in heat-protectant hair spray, industrial lube, bakeware.
  • Coating/Sealing: Protects against rust, corrosion, moisture, and salt. Found in electronics, airplanes, sealants, and so much more.
  • Non-porous and Resistant to Bactria: Easy to sanitize/sterilize. Found in Sex Toys and surgical equipment.

(151)

Because of its versatility, Silicone has made its way into many industries. It’s even used in dry-cleaning to soften and smooth out fabrics. (151)

Silicone is complicated when it comes to eco-friendliness. There’s pros and cons. The big ones being:

  • Although not petroleum-derived like some plastics, silicone production still requires some oil or natural gas. But less than plastic does. (139, 138)
  • Silicone is not biodegradable. But is does not breakdown into micro plastics like many plastics do. But oil-like silicones, like those in hair products and silicone lube, can harm aquatic wildlife and microorganisms. And it’s detectable in the arctic ocean. (141, 142, 143)
  • Silicone, especially silicone bakeware, when heated above recommended limits could release toxic particles. It’s important to read temperature recommendations. Not all silicone products have the same heat tolerances either. (144, 145, 146)

Because of these reasons, I reserve silicone for sex toys only. It’s not in my bathroom, kitchen, or lube.

Medical-grade silicone is a subclass under silicone that is designed, produced, and purified to medical industry standards. It’s a great material for sex toys. (147, 148)

But here’s the thing, medical-grade silicone isn’t cheap. Anything with a low price point is a red flag. A cheaper silicone product could a blended material and not 100% medical-grade silicone. (149, 150)

Where is it Found?

  • Bakeware
  • Hair Products
  • Lubricant
  • Sex Toys

How to Avoid It:

  1. Avoid silicone-based lubes. The Lube Guide gives several body and Earth friendly options.
  2. Choose glass bakeware and food containers over silicone bakeware and reusable bags.
  3. Avoid vague terms like “rubber silicone”, “silicone”, “food-grade silicone”, “silicone-blend” or “silicon”. You want “medical-grade” silicone products. Be ready to pay more for it too.
  4. Choose Silicone-free Products.
  5. If you do bake with silicone, follow the recommended temperature ranges. Remember, not all silicone products have the same heat tolerances.
  6. Choose an Alternatives to Silicone Sex Toys or opt for medical-grade silicone only.

19. Sulfate

Sulfates, like sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate, are surfactant and foaming agents.

Where is it Found?

  • Body care products like soap and shampoo
  • Dish soap
  • Household cleaning products
  • Laundry detergent

(128)

One concern with sulfates is its surfactant properties.

Surfactants remove dirt, oil, and microorganisms from the skin. But its abrasiveness and its ability to penetrate the epidermis. This can cause dryness, irritation, and itching. Sodium laurate links to increased histamine release. This can contribute to the pruritogenic (itch) sensation sulfates can cause. (99, 104)

Sulfates are often contaminated with 1,4-Dioxane, a carcinogenic by-product of various chemical processes (100, 128). For more information, read the section about 1,4-Dioxane.

How to Avoid It:

  1. Read labels.
  2. Avoid ingredients like “sodium lauryl sulfate”, “sodium laureth sulfate”, “SLS”, or “SLES”.
  3. See My Favorite Products for sulfate-free laundry, cleaning, and body products.

20. Triclosan

Triclosan is an antimicrobial chemical.

Where is it Found?

  • Antibacterial/surgical soap
  • Disinfectant sprays and wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Mouthwash
  • Toothpaste

 (33, 183)

Triclosan links to antibiotic resistance, skin irritation, altered skin microbiome, allergies, decreased cardiovascular function, thyroid issues, endocrine disruption, mitochondrial function disruption, cancer, and low sperm count. (33, 183)

Soap and water are as effective as Triclosan, according to one study. (42)

Triclosan’s cancer classification is “Not Yet Determined,”. (34)

The EU banned Triclosan. (36)

In 2016, the FDA called to remove Triclosan from over-the-counter antibacterial hand and body soaps (35).

But not triclosan in products like mouthwash, surgical soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and toothpaste. (33)

How to Avoid It:

  1. Choose mouthwash and toothpaste, like Unpaste™ Tooth Tabs, without triclosan listed on the label.
  2. Ditch the disinfectant wipes & sprays.
  3. Use plain Soap and water instead of hand sanitizer or antibacterial soaps.

21. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOC include many things.

Including, but not limited to: 

  • Benzene
  • Carbon Tetrachloride
  • Ethylbenzene
  • Formaldehyde
  • Styrene (BTEXS)
  • Tetrachloroethylene
  • Toluene
  • Trichloroethylene
  • Xylenes
  • 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
  • 1,4-Dichlorobenzene

(108)

Where is it Found?

  • Car exhaust, interiors
  • Cigarettes
  • Cutting boards
  • Fingernail polish
  • Glue, adhesives, grease
  • Jet fuel
  • Household cleaning products
  • Paint thinner & paint
  • Permanent markers
  • Pesticides, insecticides
  • Petrochemicals and plastics
  • Scented paraffin wax candles, air fresheners & deodorizers
  • Sunscreen

 (108)

Some VOCs can harm the body.

Exposure, even at low levels, links to headaches, blood disorders like anemia, confusion, balance difficulties, dermatitis, breathing problems, impaired neurological functioning, reproductive problems, coma, central nervous system damage, liver damage, tumors, cancer, and death. (67, 68, 69, 105, 106, 108, 196)

That’s a pretty potent list!

One VOC, toluene, has an intoxicating effect that can cause dizziness, relaxation, hallucinations, cardiac arrhythmia, and poor oxygenation. (106)

Pregnant people exposed to toluene-containing products were more likely to have complications. Such as: growth restricted babies with congenital malformations, developmental delays, and neurological delays. Children and teens exposed to toluene are more likely to have impaired cognitive function, developmental delays, neurological functioning. (105, 106)

Similarly, expectant parents who decorated a nursery or home with new carpets or new vinyl floors increased their home’s VOC concentrations and increased the risk of respiratory diseases in infants. (195)

Toluene, despite its dangers, can be found in paint thinners, glue and candles. Yep, those nice mood-setting candles can contain toluene. And benzene, ethylbenzene, and styrene also! (107, 109)

Another popular VOC is formaldehyde.

Formaldehyde is a carcinogen according to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), American Cancer Society, National Cancer Center, International Agency for Research on Cancer, and National Toxicology Program. (67, 68, 69)

Formaldehyde goes by many names: Formic aldehyde, Formalin, Methanediol, Methanal, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, and Methylene oxide. (67, 68)

Ever smelled “new car smell?” Get headaches from it? Seems there’s a reason for that.

Turns out those smells are actually VOCs. Benzene, a known carcinogen, cyclohexanone, and styrene off gas into the air and right up your nose. (111)

Formaldehyde is also in many glues and adhesives, including wood glue used on cutting boards. Wooden cutting boards with separate wood pieces glued together might use glues containing formaldehyde. There are formaldehyde-free wood glues, but their use is not yet industry standard. (211)

Benzene was also detected in 27% of tested sunscreens in 2021 (151). Ironic that something to prevent skin cancer could potentially cause another kind of cancer.

A big source of VOCs? Petrochemical production, the petroleum industry, and plastics. Making plastics and petroleum products emits huge amounts of VOCs into the environment. (160, 161, 162, 163)

How to Avoid It:

VOCs are hard to avoid, but there are a few things we can do to limit exposure.

  1. Fresh air! Open the windows whenever you can. Have proper ventilation during house projects, after buying new furniture, or installing new flooring.
  2. Choose a mineral-based sunscreen, many of which did not contain benzene according to independent lab tests (151).
  3. Ditch the chemical candles and choose 100% unscented soy or beeswax candles. They don’t have harmful VOCs. (109)
  4. Be sure wicks are 100% cotton! Candlewicks can contain lead. A single burn can raise ambient air lead concentrations above EPA recommended levels. (110)
  1. If you have a new car, or even a car that smells chemically, roll the windows down and get some fresh air as often as you can.
  2. Avoid plastics when possible. Even small things, like Avoiding Silicone Lube are opportunities to support non-petroleum businesses that use less plastic and emit less VOCs into the environment.
  3. Buy VOC-free products. Look for Greenguard Gold® certified paints, materials, and furniture like Mattresses. Typically, water-based paints are lower in VOCs than oil-based. I painted my whole house in Greenguard Gold® certified white paint. Often adding colors to the base white also means adding in VOCs. 
  4. Ditch the carpet, vinyl, and VOC sealants. If you can, tear out that off-gassing flooring and replace with tile. Or buff out your concrete slab and coat with a VOC-free sealant.
  5. Resist the urge to “nest” for a new baby. Leave what you already have (it’s probably off gassed over the years already). Or if you do decorate a nursery, opt for VOC-free paint and flooring options. Choose natural fibers for throw rugs.
  6. Houseplants! Some species can absorb VOCs and can improve indoor air quality extremely well. (112, 113)
    • Rubber Plants, Ferns, Peace Lilies, Bamboo Palms and English Ivy removed 9% of benzene, 75% of ethylbenzene, 72% of xylene, 75% of styrene, 36% of acetaldehyde, 35% of acrolein with acetone, and 85% of toluene. In just two months! (114)
    • Use a Solid Wood Cutting Board. Treeboard cutting boards are glue-free. Only wood, with a beeswax & linseed oil finish. 

The Takeaway Message

Guide to chemicals with smoke swirl along a white wall.

Whew! That’s a long chemical guide.

In a nutshell, here are some things that might limit chemical exposure:

Read Labels

  • If you walk away with nothing else but this, yay!
  • Simply reading labels is a powerful tool. We are our own advocates. There are not enough consumer protections in place for the products we use.

Be Skeptical

  • If there’s an ingredient that you can’t pronounce, chances are it’s not something you want in or on your body.
  • If a product is claiming to be “natural,” verify the claim. Learn buzzwords for Greenwashing Scams.
  • And remember, there’s Greenwashing in the Sex Toy Industry too.

Look Out for Counterfeit Goods

  • Counterfeits are huge potential sources for heavy metals, & undisclosed toxins.
  • Check out this Counterfeit Guide to learn how to spot potentially harmful fakes.

Eat Organic Foods & Skip the Processed Junk

  • Check out Local Harvest.org to find a farmers’ market or CSA (community Supported Agriculture) near you!
  • And skip the organic processed junk too.
  • If organic is not possible for you, then wash your produce well and avoid processed foods as best you can.

Research

  • Chemicals can lurk in the most unsuspecting places. Some products don’t have material or ingredient disclosures. Unless we investigate, we might not know what we’re exposing ourselves to.
  • Read these Product Guides too! They dive into different products and industries, laying out all the info you need to make informed choices.

Shop Through Trusted Marketplaces and Stores

That’s How i Healthy!

-Artemis

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A Terrible Thing to Waste: Environmental Racism and Its Assault on the American Mind

By Harriet A Washington

Washington, with a multidimensional approach, exposes the link between racism, environmental policy, health, and child development in America and beyond. Why are Communities of Color disproportionally exposed to environmental hazards? What are the impacts of that exposure?

From segregation & racist city planning, to land & water contamination, this data-packed book delivers example after example of how policy failed, and continues to fail, marginalized communities.

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There’s Something in the Water: Environmental Racism in Indigenous & Black Communities

By Dr. Ingrid R.G. Waldron

This is a case study, packed with empirical evidence, exposes racist environmental policy against Black communities and Mi’kmaq First Nations in Nova Scotia.

Typically, environmental justice conversations focus on toxin exposure and pollution marginalized communities disproportionally experience. Dr. Waldron goes one-step further. Through community-based participatory research (CBPR) she investigates the mental health impacts of land dispossession, forced migration, settler-colonialism, and intergenerational trauma. And it’s only the start of Dr. Waldron’s work.

For more information about Dr. Waldron’s ongoing activism, check out the ENRICH Project.

Buy at: Bookshop® or Better World Books®

Coming Soon!

  • Water-Free Hair Care: Solid Shampoo that Actually Works
  • 10 Eco-Friendly Sex Swaps
  • How to Keep Produce Fresher & Longer: The Veggie Saver
  • My Top 5 Ethical & Sustainable Sex Toys
  • PFAS In Sex Toy Storage Bags
  • Treeboard Review: The Best Solid Wood Cuttings Board

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