Household Appliances

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to chemicals from household appliances?
  • Some household appliances may expose you to chemicals that are on the Proposition 65 list.  These chemicals can cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm.
  • Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about significant exposure to listed chemicals.
 

Household Appliance icon - refrigeratorHOUSEHOLD APPLIANCESHousehold Appliance icon - washer

 
  • It is difficult to generalize about chemical exposures from household appliances because each appliance is different.
  • If you see a Proposition 65 warning on an appliance and have questions about whether using it may expose you to Proposition 65-listed chemicals, contact the product manufacturer for more information.
How can exposure to Proposition 65-listed chemicals from household appliances occur?
  • Appliances that use natural gas, such as some ranges, dryers, and hot water heaters, may emit benzene, carbon monoxide, or formaldehyde when in use.  Benzene is present in natural gas, and carbon monoxide and formaldehyde are created when natural gas is burned.  Consumers may be exposed to significant amounts of these chemicals, especially if the appliances are not properly vented.
  • Some flame retardants and phthalates may be present in plastic components of appliances.
  • Proposition 65 chemicals may also be present in enclosed components of the appliance (such as printed circuit boards).  During normal use, consumer exposure to these chemicals is expected to be negligible.
Main ways you can be exposed to Proposition 65-listed chemicals from household appliances:
1. Breathing in air or dust that contain chemicals 2. Transferring chemicals from the hands to the mouth, and swallowing 3. Touching surfaces or dust that contain chemicals, and absorbing them through the skin
  • During pregnancy, some of these chemicals can pass from mother to baby.
How can I reduce my potential exposure to Proposition 65-listed chemicals from household appliances?
  • Ensure that all appliances are installed correctly and maintained in good condition, especially if you repair an appliance yourself.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for appliances that use natural gas or propane.  Make sure they are properly vented to the outside.
  • When cooking on an indoor gas range or cooktop:
    • Use a range hood that is vented to the outside, and try to use the back burners, which may be better ventilated than the front ones.
    • Alternatively, use an exhaust fan that is vented to the outside.  Try to open windows and/or exterior doors.
  • If you think you may have a gas leak associated with a gas-powered appliance, have the appliance inspected and fixed.  If there is a strong gas odor, leave the building immediately.
  • Appliances designated for outdoor use, such as barbecue grills or fuel-burning generators, should not be used indoors.
  • Install a carbon monoxide alarm in your home, test it frequently, and replace its batteries as needed.
  • Minimize your exposure to dust.
    • Wash your hands and your child’s hands frequently, especially before preparing food and before eating.
    • Clean floors regularly, using a wet mop or a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if possible.
    • Wipe up dust regularly, using a damp cloth.
  • Safely dispose of unwanted electrical and electronic household appliances:
    • Do not disassemble or burn them, or abandon them on the street.
    • Find out if your city or county has a program to pick up or accept bulky items for recycling.
    • Some smaller household appliances that have electronic components, like microwave ovens, are considered e-waste, and must be taken to a designated handler or recycler.
    • Ask if your retailer offers a haul-away service for your used household appliance when you purchase a new one and have it delivered.
  • Contact the manufacturer if you have questions about a Proposition 65 warning.
For more information:

General Fact Sheets and Resources

Proposition 65

Updated July 2022
Fact Sheet - Household Appliances

Related Chemical(s)

References
Product/Place