Ways to Avoid Asbestos During the Holidays

During the holiday season, you may find yourself decorating the home, purchasing gifts for others, and spending time with loved ones. While doing so, you also want to be sure to practice ways to keep yourself and others free from asbestos products.

A lot of everyday consumer products are surprisingly linked to mesothelioma claims due to the use of asbestos to make certain appliances or products, or asbestos contamination of other ingredients. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that can cause cancer when disturbed and broken up into sharp fibers that float in the air.

During the 20th century, buildings were made with asbestos due to the mineral’s durability. Other products can be contaminated with asbestos through other mineral ingredients.

For example, asbestos can contaminate talc, a mineral found in the same geographic locations as asbestos. Talc and asbestos can mix together during the mining and manufacturing process, which makes talcum powder dangerous for consumers.

Surprisingly, despite this danger to consumers, there are still many personal care items, holiday items, and home items that contain asbestos or talc.

That’s why it’s important to stay away from products containing asbestos. Even the tiniest exposure to this mineral can lead to a cancer diagnosis of mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen.

Since asbestos fibers can easily be inhaled or ingested without knowing, avoiding it entirely is the safest option. The risk isn’t worth it when the consequences can be so severe.

Here is some guidance on how to avoid them during the holidays.

Check the Labels on Christmas Decorations

A lot of older holiday decorations, like fake snow or vintage ornaments, can actually contain asbestos, which isn’t something you want to be breathing in. To keep yourself and your loved ones safe, make sure to check product labels closely.

If you see anything mentioning hazardous materials, it’s best to avoid using those items. Newer decorations are usually safer and meet today’s consumer standards, so they’re a better bet. Plus, switching to eco-friendly options is a great way to avoid unnecessary risks!

Opt for Natural or Modern Materials

When you’re picking out holiday decorations or gifts, it’s best to opt for natural materials like wood, cotton, wool, or paper, or go with modern, non-toxic options. These materials are not only safer but often are more sustainable. By choosing natural products, you’re creating a safer, healthier environment for your loved ones while also supporting eco-friendly choices.

Use Talc-Free Personal Care Products

It’s important to choose talc-free personal care products. Some cosmetics are made with talc, which is ground into a talcum powder to absorb moisture and keep skin dry and healthy. This talcum powder can sometimes be contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen.

Talc-based products, like certain powders and makeup, pose potential health risks when inhaled or applied over time. Opting for talc-free alternatives helps reduce the risk of exposure to harmful substances, promoting better long-term health and safety.

Consult a Professional for Home Testing

As the weather gets colder and we cozy up around the fireplace, it’s a good time to have your home inspected by a professional to check for asbestos. Older homes, especially those with vintage insulation or older fireplaces, may have asbestos-containing materials to absorb heat and insulate parts of the fireplace.

Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed, but using a fireplace is one method to disturb asbestos and release sharp fibers into the air you breathe. These fibers can also stick to clothes and expose other people later. A professional inspection or your fireplace or another part of your home early in the winter season ensures your home is safe before you make the most of the cozy features.