Toxins and chemicals can harm your health. Your developing baby is especially vulnerable.

Ways to reduce exposure

• Don’t allow smoking in your home and stay away from public places and people who are smoking.
• Stay away from recently remodeled homes and rooms.
• Use personal care products with safe ingredients and fewer chemicals.
• Don’t kill bugs or mold with pesticides or pet collars.
• Assure all foam products like crib mattresses are flame retardant free or comply with TB-117-2013. Flame retardants can be toxic to brain development.
• Clean your home with non-toxic products like vinegar and baking soda.
• Avoid sweeping, which can stir up toxic substances in dust. Use a HEPA system vacuum and wet mop to clean floors instead.
• Avoid plastics like shower curtains and toys with BPA and vinyl chloride.
• Only use glass dishes in the microwave. Avoid plastic ware for hot drink or food.
• Do not have items with mercury such as certain light bulbs and thermometers in your home. Avoid certain fish high in mercury.
• Avoid lead exposure. Call 800-424-LEAD to learn how to prevent exposure.
• Test for radon if you have basements or ground floors.
• Wash fruits and vegetables. Eat organic foods if budget allows; if not, try to find ones with the lowest pesticide levels.
• Eat foods with low levels of animal fat.
• Avoid canned and processed food. If budget doesn’t allow for fresh vegetables and fruits, choose cans that say BPA-free lining.
• Talk to your employer about potentially harmful substances and ways to avoid exposure.