The IAA One Minute Blog

A new study has shown that household dust can expose people to a wide range of potentially toxic chemicals.

Toxic Dust

Every house has a little dust and its own unique “dust load” based on a variety of factors like where you live, what you cook, if you smoke, the climate, and how many people and animals live there. Ordinary house dust is a complex mixture of pet dander, fungal spores, tiny particles, soil tracked in on your feet, carpet fibers, human hair, and skin.

A new study reported that 90 percent of dust samples taken from houses in 14 states contain harmful chemicals, including one that’s known to cause cancer. The chemicals studied come from all sorts of common consumer goods, including:

• Baby products
• Cleaning supplies
• Fast food
• Flooring
• Food packaging
• Furniture
• Personal hygiene products

Chemicals are released into the air and then seep into the dust that settles on furniture and floors. People can inhale or ingest small particles of dust or even absorb them through the skin.

Ten harmful chemicals were found in 90 percent of the dust samples tested:

1. Phthalates:  Used in toys and vinyl flooring, this chemical occurred in the highest concentration.
2. Phenols:  Often used in cleaning products, this chemical had the next highest concentration.
3. Flame retardants
4. Fragrances
5. Perflouroalkyl substances: Used in carpets, textiles and leather to make them water, oil and stain repellent and to create grease-proof and water-proof coatings for products such as paper plates and food packing.

The chemicals of top concern are:

1. TCEP: A flame retardant added to couches, baby products, electronics, and other products.
2. DEP, DEHP, BBzP, and DnBP: These chemicals, which are different varieties of phthalates, are found in an array of drugstore items, as well as some highly processed and fast foods. Phthalates are linked to IQ and respiratory problems in children.
3. PFOA and PFOS: These chemicals are found in cell phones, pizza boxes and many non-stick, water-proof and stain-resistant products.  They have been linked to issues with the immune, digestive and endocrine system.

The authors of the study say small amounts can add up over time and potentially impact your health.      

Cut Down on Toxic Dust

To help improve dust in your home:

• Caulk and seal cracks and crevices to prevent dust from accumulating in hard to reach places
• Clean up quickly and thoroughly when you finish a home improvement project, since these can involve dust and toxic products
• Day-to-day hand washing with plain soap and water can cut down on the amount of dust you come into contact with
• Keep electronic equipment dust-free by damp dusting it frequently, this is a common source of chemical fire retardants in dust
• Leave your shoes at the door: Shoes are a common way to bring outdoor pollutants inside.
• Vacuuming with a HEPA-filter
• Wet mop and dust with a damp cloth

Young children are of special concern because their developing bodies are more vulnerable to toxic exposures. They ingest or inhale more dust than adults since they, and their toys, spend lots of time on or very near the floor.

What IAA has to Say

Insurance Administrator of America wants you to get cleaning! Dusting is never a fun chore, but this new study shows how important it is to your health. Just think of IAA as your third party cleaner.

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