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6 products in your home that may contain toxic 'forever chemicals'
6 products in your home that may contain toxic 'forever chemicals'
Andrea MichelsonJul 27, 2021, 03:56 IST
A regular living room could have hidden sources of PFAS.Westend61/Getty Images, Andrea Michelson/Insider
PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they linger in humans and the environment.
They can increase the risks of some cancers, low birth weight, and problems with the immune system.
Nonstick cookware, stain-resistant sprays, and water repellent gear might contain PFAS.
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A couple years ago, I had a run-in with potentially toxic cookware.
We left the pot out on the balcony to avoid inhaling any chemical fumes.
Andrea Michelson
That's when I learned about PFAS exposure.
US Environmental Protection Agency's Peter Grevatt and Cosmo Servidio listen to members of the public comment during a PFAS Community Stakeholder Meeting in Horsham, Pa.
AP Photo/Matt Rourke
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Nonstick cookware
I'm not the only one who's wary of nonstick cookware.
Shutterstock
Stain-resistant furniture and carpets
Your furniture and carpets could become "PFAS factories" in your home, according to Toxic Free Future.
NickyLloyd/Getty Images
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Water-repellent gear
Water-repellent gear is great for staying dry, but manufacturing it is harmful to the environment.
Jaromir Chalabala/EyeEm
Grease-resistant takeout containers
Many fast food chains - even the healthy ones - use packaging that contains PFAS.
Erin McDowell/Insider, Sweetgreen/Facebook
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Cosmetics, especially waterproof or long-lasting products
You can grow your eyelashes out with natural remedies like castor oil and by practicing good hygiene when taking off your makeup.
triocean/ Getty Images
Drinking water
Drinking water is the leading source of PFAS in many American homes.
John Keeble/Getty Images