10 Common Household Items That Could Raise Your Cancer Risk

You probably know smoking or too much sun can cause cancer. But did you know some stuff in your home—like your favorite air freshener or frying pan—might also be risky? These things can have chemicals that, over time, could harm your body. Don’t panic, but let’s be smart. Here are 10 everyday items that might increase cancer risk, explained simply with science and tips to stay safe.

1. Air Fresheners

Why They’re a Problem

Air fresheners make your home smell nice, like flowers or clean laundry. But they release chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). One of these, formaldehyde, is a known cancer-causing chemical, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Breathing it in for years could raise your risk of nose or throat cancer, or even leukemia. It’s like spraying a little danger into the air every time you use them.

What Science Says

A 2007 study in Environmental Health Perspectives found air fresheners, even “natural” ones, pump out VOCs like formaldehyde. A 2015 study said using them in small rooms—like your bathroom—makes indoor air dirtier, which could lead to health problems over time. Who knew that “clean” smell could be so sneaky?

How They Harm You

Formaldehyde sticks to your DNA, causing tiny damage that’s hard for your body to fix. VOCs can also mix with other air particles to create ozone, which irritates your lungs and makes things worse. It’s a slow build-up, but it adds up if you use these sprays every day.

Safer Options

Open your windows to let fresh air in—it’s free and safe. If you love scents, try a diffuser with pure essential oils. Make sure the oils are tested for quality, not some cheap knockoff. You can also put a bowl of baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice in a room. It absorbs odors without any risky chemicals. Simple, right?

Can Body Spray Cause Cancer?

Nothing says you have to use body spray, but few actively judge others for using it either. For sporadic use, body spray is typically just fine, but some ingredients in certain body sprays might result in long-term health risks if used consistently.

What’s in Body Spray That May Be Harmful?

• Formaldehyde: Certain sprays release chemicals that produce formaldehyde over time, and formaldehyde is a cancer-causing chemical.
• Phthalates: These are the chemicals that make scents linger. Studies have suggested they can influence hormones and possibly raise the risk of some cancers.
• Synthetic Fragrances: Fake smells in sprays are usually produced with petrochemicals. Those can mess with your hormones and might even raise cancer risks with long-term exposure.
• Propellants (such as butane): They aid in pushing the spray out of the can. Though not directly associated with cancer, breathing them regularly may damage your lungs.

How Does the Risk Develop?

It’s usually fine to use body spray a couple of times here and there though. But if you’re spraying daily or in volume — especially in a small, poorly ventilated space — the chemicals could accumulate in your body. This can elevate your risk over time.

How to Use Body Spray Safely:

• Seek out sprays that are phthalate-, paraben- and formaldehyde-free.

2. Nonstick Cookware

Why They’re a Problem

Nonstick pans are awesome for cooking eggs without a mess. But many are coated with a chemical called PTFE, or Teflon. If you heat them too much—say, over 500°F—they can release perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). This chemical is linked to cancers like kidney, testicular, and thyroid. Even small scratches in the coating can let out similar chemicals that stay in your body for years.

What Science Says

A 2014 study in Environmental Health Perspectives showed people near PFOA factories had higher cancer rates. A 2020 Lancet study said PFOA messes with your hormones, making cancer more likely. It’s not just factory workers—your kitchen could be a tiny risk zone too.

How They Harm You

PFOA messes with proteins that control how your cells grow. This can lead to cells growing out of control, which is how cancer starts. These chemicals don’t break down easily, so they pile up in your blood and stick around, like unwanted houseguests.

Safer Options

Try stainless steel or cast iron pans—they’re tough and safe. Ceramic pans are another good choice; they’re slick without the risky chemicals. If you use nonstick, pick PFAS-free brands and don’t heat them empty. If your pan’s scratched, toss it. It’s not worth gambling with your health.

Extra Tip

I once burned a nonstick pan by accident—smelled awful! That’s when I switched to cast iron. It’s heavier, but my food tastes better, and I feel safer. Give it a try!

3. Plastic Food Containers and Bottles

Why They’re a Problem

Those plastic containers for leftovers or water bottles are super handy. But some, especially older ones, have bisphenol A (BPA). BPA acts like estrogen in your body and can leak into food or drinks, especially if you heat them. This might increase your risk of breast or prostate cancer over time.

What Science Says

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences says BPA can change how your genes work, especially in kids or babies, raising cancer risks later. A 2018 *Environmental Research* study found BPA in almost everyone’s body—95% of Americans! It’s in so many plastics, it’s hard to avoid.

How They Harm You

BPA tricks your body into thinking it’s a hormone, making cells grow too fast in places like your breasts. It can also mess with your DNA’s “stop” signals, letting damaged cells turn into cancer. It’s scary how something so common can do that.

Safer Options

Use glass jars or stainless steel bottles instead. They’re sturdy and don’t leak chemicals. If you need plastic, make sure it’s labeled BPA-free. Never microwave plastic, even if it says “microwave-safe”—heat makes BPA escape faster. Silicone containers are great for packing lunches too.

4. Laundry Detergents and Fabric Softeners

Why They’re a Problem

Some laundry soaps and softeners have a chemical called 1,4-dioxane. It’s not added on purpose—it’s a byproduct from making them. This chemical can soak into your skin from clothes or get into your lungs from scented products. Over time, it’s linked to liver and nose cancers.

What Science Says

A 2015 FDA report warned that 1,4-dioxane in cleaning products was often too high. A 2021 Toxicology Letters study said it damages DNA by causing stress in your cells. That’s not what you want from your “fresh breeze” detergent!

How They Harm You

Your liver turns 1,4-dioxane into harmful stuff that attacks DNA. It’s also water-soluble, so it sticks to clothes and gets on your skin every time you wear them. That favorite hoodie could be a tiny risk every day.

Safer Options

Buy fragrance-free detergents that say “no 1,4-dioxane” on the label. Look for brands with Safer Choice or EWG approval—they’re checked for safety. Instead of fabric softener, try wool dryer balls. They make clothes soft without any chemicals.

Quick Story

My sister used to love scented softeners until she got a rash. She switched to unscented detergent and wool balls, and her skin’s happy now. Plus, she’s not breathing in weird chemicals. Win-win!

5. Flame Retardants in Furniture

Why They’re a Problem

Your couch, mattress, or carpet might have chemicals called PBDEs to stop fires. These slowly leak into your air and dust, and you breathe or touch them. PBDEs build up in your body and are linked to liver cancer and thyroid problems. It’s like your furniture is quietly shedding tiny risks.

What Science Says

The EPA in 2017 said PBDEs likely cause cancer after seeing tumors in animals. A 2022 *Environmental Science & Technology* study found PBDEs in dust from 90% of U.S. homes, and people had more in their blood the longer they lived there.

How They Harm You

PBDEs act like thyroid hormones, messing with how your body grows cells. They also stop bad cells from dying off, which can lead to cancer. They love fat, so they stick in your body for years, piling up the risk.

Safer Options

Buy furniture labeled “no chemical flame retardants.” Wool or organic cotton is naturally fire-safe. Vacuum with a HEPA filter to catch dust, and wash your hands after chilling on the couch. It sounds small, but it helps.

6. Tap Water Contaminants

Why They’re a Problem

Your tap water might have arsenic, radon, or chlorine byproducts (THMs), depending on where you live. Arsenic can cause skin or lung cancer. THMs are linked to bladder cancer. Nitrates, from farm runoff, might lead to stomach cancer. It’s not one glass—it’s drinking it for years.

What Science Says

EWG’s Tap Water Database says 40% of U.S. water systems have too much arsenic. A 2019 *Environmental Research* study blamed THMs for 10,000 cancer cases a year. Your faucet might be serving more than just water.

How They Harm You

Arsenic stops your DNA from fixing itself, causing cell mistakes. THMs stick to DNA, making it act weird. Nitrates turn into nitrosamines in your stomach, which are super bad for causing cancer. It’s a slow, sneaky risk.

Safer Options

Get a water filter that removes metals and THMs—reverse osmosis or carbon filters work great. Check EWG’s guide to pick one. If you have a well, test it every year for radon or nitrates. It’s a small step for safer sips.

7. Scented Candles

Why They’re a Problem

Those candles you light for a cozy vibe? If they’re made of paraffin wax, they release benzene and toluene when burned. Both are cancer-causing, says IARC. The smoke also has tiny particles that go deep into your lungs, and fake scents might have hormone-disrupting phthalates.

What Science Says

A 2009 American Chemical Society study found paraffin candles give off risky VOCs in small rooms. A 2023 Indoor Air study said using them often in stuffy spaces doubles benzene in the air. That’s not so relaxing anymore.

How They Harm You

Benzene turns into DNA-damaging stuff in your body, especially in your bone marrow, raising leukemia risk. Toluene stresses your cells, and phthalates might mess with hormones, possibly leading to breast cancer.

Safer Options

Use beeswax or soy candles with cotton wicks and real essential oils. Burn them where air flows, like near an open window. Trim wicks to reduce smoke. Or try LED candles—they’re safe and still look pretty.

8. Household Pesticides and Herbicides

Why They’re a Problem

Sprays for bugs or weeds, like glyphosate in Roundup, can be trouble. IARC says glyphosate probably causes cancer, especially non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Older products with chlorpyrifos, now banned, might still be in your garage and are linked to lung cancer.

What Science Says

A 2019 Mutation Research study found a 41% higher lymphoma risk for people using glyphosate. A 2021 Environmental Health study saw chlorpyrifos in homes, linked to cancer signs in kids. Your garden shed could be a risk zone.

How They Harm You

Glyphosate damages your cells’ energy, causing DNA errors. Chlorpyrifos messes with your brain signals, sparking inflammation that might lead to cancer. These chemicals stick in dust, so you’re exposed even after spraying.

Safer Options

Use traps or barriers for bugs instead of sprays. Pull weeds by hand or use vinegar. If you need pesticides, try organic ones like neem oil. Store chemicals in a sealed shed, not your home, to keep vapors away.

9. Dry-Cleaned Clothes

Why They’re a Problem

That fresh suit from the dry cleaner might have perchloroethylene (PERC), a chemical the EPA says likely causes cancer. PERC stays on clothes, and you can breathe it or get it on your skin. It’s tied to esophageal and bladder cancers.

What Science Says

A 2018 Environmental Research study found PERC in homes from dry-cleaned clothes, above safe levels. A 2020 IARC report confirmed PERC’s cancer links, especially for people around it a lot, like dry cleaners.

How They Harm You

PERC turns into a toxic chemical that damages DNA and messes with cell growth. It’s very airy, so it hangs out in your closet, and you breathe it longer than you think.

Safer Options

Find “wet cleaning” or “green” dry cleaners that use safe stuff like liquid CO2. Air out dry-cleaned clothes outside for a day before bringing them in. Hand-wash delicate clothes with eco detergent to skip the risk.

10. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Why They’re a Problem

Your shampoo, lotion, or makeup might have parabens, phthalates, or formaldehyde releasers. These soak into your skin, messing with hormones or damaging cells. Parabens are linked to breast cancer, and formaldehyde to leukemia.

What Science Says

A 2010 Journal of Applied Toxicology study found parabens in 60% of breast tumors. A 2022 Environmental Health Perspectives study said formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in cosmetics raise indoor air risks, tied to leukemia signs.

How They Harm You

Parabens act like estrogen, making tumors grow in places like your breasts. Phthalates mess with male hormones, possibly raising prostate cancer risk. Formaldehyde locks up DNA, stopping your cells from fixing damage.

Safer Options

Pick EWG-verified or organic products without parabens, phthalates, or preservatives like DMDM hydantoin. Go for mineral makeup or plant-based skincare. Check labels—if it’s a chemical tongue-twister, put it back.

Personal Note

I used to slather on scented lotions until I learned about parabens. Now I stick to simple, organic stuff. My skin’s just as happy, and I’m not worrying about hidden risks. It’s worth the switch!

Final Thoughts

You can’t avoid every risk, but you can make your home safer with small changes. Get a water filter, use glass containers, and ditch those chemical sprays. Open windows, check labels, and stay curious about what’s in your stuff. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being smarter. You’ve got this!

FAQ: Household Items That Might Raise Cancer Risk

Q1. Are all plastics bad for you?

A1: Not all plastics are bad, but ones with BPA or phthalates can mess with your hormones. Look for “BPA-free” labels and don’t heat plastics in the microwave—it makes chemicals leak. Plastics with a 7 recycling code are often the riskiest.

Q2. Is it okay to use scented candles sometimes?

A2: Lighting a candle now and then in a room with open windows is probably fine. But using paraffin candles a lot, especially in a closed-up space, can build up harmful chemicals like benzene. Save them for special moments.

Q3. What’s adding secret chemicals to my air?

A3: Air fresheners, cleaners, and candles are big ones, giving off stuff like formaldehyde. That “fresh” smell isn’t so fresh. New furniture or paint can also release chemicals, so keep air flowing.

Q4. How do I know if my tap water is safe?

A4: Buy a home testing kit to check for metals or nitrates. Your water company’s yearly report tells you what’s in your water. If you have a well, get it tested by a lab every year or two.

Q5. Are natural cleaners always safe?

A5: They’re usually safer, but some “green” products still have sneaky chemicals. Pick ones with Safer Choice or EWG approval and skip anything with fake scents.

Q6. What’s the easiest way to lower cancer risks at home?

A6: Use natural cleaners, get a water filter, and switch to glass containers. Ditch nonstick pans with PFAS and keep your home airy. Dust with a wet cloth and vacuum with a HEPA filter to catch risky particles.

References

• EWG Tap Water Database, 2023
• EPA Reports: PERC (2018), PBDEs (2017)
• NIEHS: BPA and Cancer (2020)
• American Chemical Society: Candle Emissions (2009)
• IARC: Glyphosate (2015), Formaldehyde (2012)
• FDA: 1,4-Dioxane in Products (2015)
• Journal of Applied Toxicology: Parabens in Tumors (2010)
• Environmental Health Perspectives: Air Fresheners (2007), Cookware (2014), Cosmetics (2022)
• Environmental Research: BPA (2018), THMs (2019), PERC (2018)
• The Lancet: PFOA Meta-Analysis (2020)
• Toxicology Letters: 1,4-Dioxane Damage (2021)
• Environmental Science & Technology: PBDEs in Dust (2022)
• Mutation Research: Glyphosate and Lymphoma (2019)
• Indoor Air: Candles and Benzene (2023)