10 Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Everyday Home Decor

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The everyday home decor should be comfortable, spark joy and add a little bit of personal style, yet surprisingly some elements can be hiding danger. Items you may have purchased to add beauty to your home often have risks that you might not realize. A lot of these hazards are outright sneaky, while others are the result of accidental mistakes or plain old forgetfulness.

These hidden dangers can impact air quality, cause allergy triggers, or even be bad for your health. Read on for some common decor items that could potentially be a hazard to your cozy space, so you can keep your home safe and inviting.

Lead-based Paint

Lead based paint can still be lurking under newer layers in older homes. If your home was built before 1978, there’s a chance lead paint is hiding beneath newer coats and could be dangerous if it starts to chip or peel. The problem with lead dust is that it can be especially serious in children, causing brain development problems and other neurological damage. If you are planning to renovate, it is best to test for lead, and if it is present, have it removed safely by professionals to ensure you and your family’s health.

Artificial Air Fresheners and Scented Candles

A lot of air fresheners and candles contain chemicals called phthalates that help to make scents last longer. They may also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air and affect indoor air quality. Certain VOCs have been shown to cause respiratory problems and in some cases, hormone disruption with long term exposure. Essential oil diffusers or soy-based candles can give you all the benefits of burning these toxic materials without the known dangers.

Non-stick Cookware

Non stick pans may be convenient but they do release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. Cookware that is nonstick, with chemical coatings that contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), can break down at high heat and give off fumes that are toxic to humans and pets. These chemicals can build up in the body, and have been linked to a number of health risks over time. If you’re considering switching, then consider stainless steel or cast iron pans for a safer, more durable cooking solution.

Flame-retardant Fabrics

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Many sofas, mattresses and rugs are treated with flame retardant chemicals, which sound like a fine idea for fire safety. But as time goes on, these chemicals are broken down, and particles can be breathed in or absorbed by the skin. Some flame retardants have been shown to disrupt hormones and may have other health effects. If you can, look for natural materials like wool, which is naturally flame resistant.

Old Carpets and Rugs

Carpets are something you might think of as cozy and harmless, but older carpets can trap dust, allergens, and even mold, and if they haven’t been cleaned regularly. And newer carpets are often made with glues and fibers that contain VOCs. Vacuum carpets regularly to improve indoor air, however eco-friendly and low VOC carpet options would reduce your VOC exposure.

Indoor Plants

Indoor plants are beautiful, and they help clean the air, but not all plants are as safe as they appear. Philodendrons and pothos are common houseplants that are toxic to pets if ingested and can cause gastrointestinal problems, or worse. Research plants before bringing them home, if you have pets or young children, choose safer ones such as spider plants or Boston ferns, to avoid mishaps.

Vintage Furniture

There is a lot of charm to old furniture, but it can also hide some hidden risks. Older wooden pieces may have lead based paint or finishes with VOC’s, and even more modern pieces may have off gassing adhesives. If you’re buying vintage furniture, make sure to give it a good clean and if you can, seal it to prevent any harmful chemicals seeping into your home’s air. Even better, if refinishing, use eco friendly paint to reduce risks.

Shelves and Heavy Objects That Are Unsecured

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Unsecured shelves and heavy decor items can be a big risk if not properly anchored. In homes with small children or pets, a bookshelf or TV can topple with a nudge. For shelves, use the wall anchors and heavier items like large mirrors or artwork should be anchored properly. There are many discreet and effective mounting options that don’t have to ruin style.

Plastic Decor Items

Lightweight and cheap, plastic items are also prone to breaking down over time, and releasing microplastics into the air, and potentially harmful chemicals like BPA. The effects of constant exposure to microplastics and BPA on the human body include hormone disruption. If you can, opt for more sustainable decor items like wood, glass, metal or even concrete.

Low-quality Art Supplies

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If you love painting or crafting, you should be aware of what art supplies you use. VOCs are chemicals emitted by some paints, glues and finishes that can irritate your respiratory system and may have long term health effects. Low-VOC art supplies are water based and safer for adults and kids to use, and many are just as vibrant and effective as their chemical heavy counterparts.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.