The secretly toxic bathroom storage items toxicologists urge you to replace now

When we think of toxicity in our homes, our minds usually go to kitchens full of non-stick pans and black plastic utensils. However, bathrooms can be just as bad, if not worse, toxicologists warn.

In fact, some of the most-necessary storage items we use in our bathrooms could be posing a serious health hazard without us even realizing it.

Here, top toxicologists reveal which bathroom storage items need to go to make this space safer, and what you can replace them with for a healthier home.

The most toxic part of a bathroom

It might be surprising, but the worst toxicity offenders in your bathroom are usually storage items. While they might help keep things tidy, using ones made from toxic chemicals should be at the top of your bathroom decluttering checklists to make a home less toxic.

Bruce Jarnot, global materials compliance expert, toxicologist, and product compliance advisor at Assent says, ‘In the bathroom, personal care, storage, and cleaning products often contain PFAS. Even dental floss may contain PFAS.’

Studies have shown PFAS can have a dire impact on hormones, resulting in low mood and energy, disrupted cycles, and general health implications when used in or on your body in the long term. Cutting them out to the best of your ability is within your best interests.

Luckily, it is fairly easy to switch over to non-toxic home essentials to make your routine less damaging to your health, but don't forget about the toxic items in your bedroom and elsewhere, too.

Bruce Jarnot, toxicologist, adds, 'When shopping, look for items made from natural materials like cotton, bamboo, wool, or glass, and labels that state "PFAS-free" or "PFC-free”. If the ingredient list is long, look for chemicals that include “fluoro” as that signals the presence of PFAS.’

When organizing makeup and organizing skincare, store them in opaque storage off of the counters. This protects them from humidity and sunlight to prevent early deterioration, keeping them in top condition for longer.

Beyond storage, Amberly Johnson, certified toxicologist and director at Utah Poison Control Center at the University of Utah adds, ‘Our bathrooms are filled with products that can cause toxicity, including medications, personal care items, and cleaning supplies. Medications can be dangerous if not taken as directed or if ingested accidentally by children exploring their surroundings. Young children might mistake personal care products or cleaners for something edible. Additionally, getting cleaning products on the skin or in the eyes or inhaling their fumes can also pose serious risks.’

What to do about toxic bathroom storage

Luckily, it is fairly easy to switch over to non-toxic home essentials to make your bathroom storage less damaging to your health. Additionally, when organizing makeup and organizing skincare, keep them off your countertops to protects them from humidity and sunlight. This will to prevent early deterioration.

Amberly Johnson adds that organizing medicine cabinets correctly can help to keep your medications safe and in good condition, preventing early deterioration. They suggest, ‘Prevention is key to avoiding poison exposure in our homes. Store medicines out of reach or in places where they are not visible, such as behind closed cabinet doors or inside a locked box [available at Walmart]. Always keep medicines in their original, child-resistant packaging to make them harder to access and easy to identify.

‘Don’t forget to organize cleaning supplies the same way,’ she adds. ‘Place cleaners, including dishwasher detergent, in high cabinets that children cannot reach, and store them away from food to prevent cross-contamination. Remember, your local poison control center is available to help 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222 in case of a poisoning incident or if you have any questions.’

FAQs

Are shower curtains toxic?

Shower curtains are relatively unassuming bathroom items, but they are one of the most toxic.

Dr. Paul Savage, toxin expert and chief medical officer at MDLifespan explains, ‘Most of the ones on the market are made from PVC, which can release volatile organic compounds (or VOCs) into the air. These VOCs aren’t great, and they’ve been linked to respiratory issues and other health concerns. Swapping to a fabric or PEVA shower curtain is a simple change that can make a big difference.’

How you clean a bathroom can also make a big difference to its toxicity. When choosing cleaning products, opt for less astringent cleaners such as cleaning with vinegar or pick up plant-based cleaning products to make your bathroom healthier, creating a relaxing wellness space that actually does you some good, not harm.