They’ve been household staples for years, but health experts warn that these everyday products could be doing more harm than good.
Boomers grew up with products that were marketed as safe, effective, and essential for daily life. Whether it was the cleaning sprays under the sink, the beauty products on the bathroom counter, or the cookware used to make family meals, these items became trusted staples in homes across America. Many Boomers still swear by them today, insisting they’ve “been using them for years with no problems.”
But just because something has been around forever doesn’t mean it’s safe. Over time, research has exposed the hidden dangers of certain chemicals and materials once considered harmless. Some of the products Boomers have relied on for decades are now linked to serious health risks—yet many people continue using them simply out of habit. If you or someone you love still has these items in the house, experts say it might be time to reconsider.
1. Nonstick cookware that releases harmful chemicals.
For years, Teflon-coated pans were the go-to choice for effortless cooking. They made flipping pancakes easy and kept scrambled eggs from sticking, all while cutting down on oil and butter. But what many people didn’t realize is that when overheated, these pans can release toxic fumes that are dangerous to inhale. Older nonstick cookware, especially those made before stricter regulations in the early 2000s, may still contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical that has been linked to hormone disruption, organ damage, and even cancer, according to experts at the CDC.
Scratched or peeling pans are even riskier, as tiny bits of the coating can break off into food and be consumed without anyone realizing it. While newer nonstick coatings claim to be safer, experts still recommend using stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic-coated cookware as a long-term, toxin-free alternative.
2. Bleach-based cleaners that irritate the lungs.
Bleach has long been the go-to cleaner for wiping out germs, whitening laundry, and disinfecting just about everything. Many Boomers grew up believing that if your house didn’t smell like bleach, it wasn’t really clean. While there’s no doubt that it’s effective at killing bacteria, it also comes with serious risks. The fumes can be harsh on the lungs, especially for those with asthma or respiratory conditions, and long-term exposure has been linked to chronic breathing issues.
Mixing bleach with other common household cleaners, like ammonia or vinegar, can create toxic gases that are downright dangerous, reports Rebecca Joy Stanborough writing for Healthline. Some experts argue that frequent exposure to strong disinfectants may even contribute to weakened immune function over time. For a safer clean, natural alternatives like hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or plant-based disinfectants can get the job done without the harsh side effects.
3. Artificial sweeteners that mess with metabolism.
Boomers looking to cut sugar without sacrificing sweetness have been turning to artificial sweeteners for decades. Products like Sweet’N Low, Equal, and Splenda were once marketed as the perfect guilt-free solution, promising all the taste without the calories. But recent studies suggest these sugar substitutes may not be as harmless as once thought.
Research has shown that artificial sweeteners can interfere with gut bacteria, disrupt metabolism, and even increase sugar cravings rather than curb them, as discussed in an article in Scientific American by Ellen Ruppel Shell. Some have also been linked to a higher risk of weight gain, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular issues. While the occasional diet soda or sugar-free gum won’t do much harm, regularly consuming artificial sweeteners could have unintended consequences.
4. Talcum powder with links to cancer.
For years, talcum powder was a bathroom staple, praised for keeping skin dry and fresh. Many Boomers remember using it after showers, on babies, and even to prevent chafing. But what they didn’t know at the time is that talc, the main ingredient in many powders, has been found to sometimes contain asbestos—a known carcinogen, according to Paul Frysh writing for WebMD.
Studies have linked long-term talc use to an increased risk of ovarian cancer and lung disease, leading to massive lawsuits against major brands like Johnson & Johnson. Some companies have since reformulated their powders, but concerns still linger, especially for older products that may still be sitting in medicine cabinets. Experts recommend switching to cornstarch-based powders or avoiding these products altogether to eliminate unnecessary health risks.
5. Mothballs that release toxic fumes.
For generations, mothballs were the go-to method for protecting clothes from fabric-eating pests. Boomers kept them in closets, dresser drawers, and storage bins, believing they were the best defense against moth damage. The problem? The strong-smelling fumes that come from mothballs aren’t just unpleasant—they’re actually toxic.
Most mothballs contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which release harmful gases that can cause headaches, dizziness, and, with long-term exposure, even liver or kidney damage. Breathing in these chemicals regularly isn’t just bad for moths; it’s bad for humans, too. Instead of relying on these outdated products, natural alternatives like cedar chips, lavender sachets, or vacuum-sealing clothing can protect fabrics without the health risks.
6. Air fresheners that fill homes with chemicals.
Boomers grew up in an era where a clean house wasn’t just about being tidy—it had to smell fresh, too. That meant plug-in air fresheners, scented sprays, and even those little trees hanging from car mirrors. While these products might make a home smell pleasant, they’re also loaded with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the lungs, trigger allergies, and even disrupt hormones.
Some even contain phthalates, chemicals that have been linked to reproductive health issues. Unlike natural scents, these artificial fragrances don’t just disappear—they linger in the air and settle on surfaces, exposing people to toxins for hours. Experts recommend swapping artificial air fresheners for safer options, like essential oil diffusers, beeswax candles, or simply opening windows for fresh air.
7. Plastic food containers that leach harmful chemicals.
Plastic food storage became wildly popular in the mid-to-late 20th century, and many Boomers have been using the same sets for decades. But older plastic containers, especially those made before BPA regulations, can leach harmful chemicals into food, particularly when exposed to heat. Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, commonly found in older plastics, have been linked to hormone disruption, fertility issues, and even cancer.
Heating food in plastic—whether in the microwave or dishwasher—only increases the risk of these chemicals seeping into meals. Experts suggest switching to glass or stainless steel food storage, especially for anything that will be heated, to reduce long-term exposure.
8. Antibacterial soaps that contribute to antibiotic resistance.
For decades, antibacterial soaps were marketed as a superior way to fight germs, and Boomers were quick to embrace them. Products containing triclosan, a once-popular antibacterial ingredient, were found in everything from hand soaps to toothpaste. But research has since revealed that triclosan doesn’t just kill germs—it may also contribute to antibiotic resistance and hormone disruption.
In fact, the FDA banned triclosan in over-the-counter hand soaps in 2016, but many Boomers may still have old bottles lurking under their sinks. The best way to keep hands clean? Regular soap and water do the job just as well, without the unnecessary risks.
9. Pesticide-laden weed killers that linger in the environment.
Boomers who took pride in maintaining pristine lawns often turned to chemical weed killers like Roundup, which contains glyphosate. This widely used herbicide was once considered safe, but mounting evidence suggests prolonged exposure may be linked to an increased risk of cancer.
While it’s still available on store shelves, several lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers, claiming they failed to warn consumers of the potential dangers. Many environmental and health experts now recommend switching to natural alternatives like vinegar-based weed sprays or manual removal to keep outdoor spaces safe.
10. Aluminum foil and cookware that may contribute to cognitive decline.
Cooking with aluminum foil and using aluminum cookware have been common practices for decades, but some studies suggest that high levels of aluminum exposure may be linked to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
While the research isn’t entirely conclusive, experts recommend limiting exposure by avoiding high-heat cooking with aluminum and opting for safer alternatives like stainless steel or cast iron.
11. Chemical-laden hair dyes that could pose serious health risks.
Boomers who have been dyeing their hair for decades might not realize that certain chemicals in permanent dyes, especially older formulas, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Ingredients like p-phenylenediamine (PPD) can also cause severe allergic reactions.
While occasional dyeing is unlikely to cause harm, those who have been using these products for decades may want to consider ammonia-free or plant-based alternatives.