As every parent knows, you are often worried for the heath and safety of your child but what may be a shock to many mums and dads is how dangerous their home can be for the wellbeing of their child.

Sarah Jeffries, a first aid expert at Emergency First Aid at Work Course, says parents may be unknowingly exposing their children to serious health risks due to simple everyday household items.

Colourful cleaning products, button batteries, and even common painkillers are lethal if ingested by young children.

She highlights the importance of parental vigilance and proper storage to prevent accidental poisonings.

According to Sarah, several household items pose significant dangers to children and items which have featured as popular hacks on social media. Here the Mirror takes a look…

Trending TikTok Hacks

Recent viral trends have raised alarms among experts. One concerning trend involves placing scent boosters, such as Unstoppables, into plug-in air fresheners, which can produce toxic fumes and chemical burns. Parents should exercise caution with DIY household hacks that may seem harmless but can be quite risky.

Cleaning Products

Brightly coloured liquids in easily accessible cupboards are particularly attractive to young children. However, many of these products contain toxic chemicals that can cause serious harm if ingested.

Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers, cold remedies, and prescription medications left within reach are common causes of accidental poisoning in children.

Essential Oils and Cosmetics

Certain essential oils and beauty products contain hazardous substances that can be harmful if swallowed.

Button Batteries

These small batteries, found in remote controls, toys, and hearing aids, can cause life-threatening internal burns if ingested.

Laundry Pods

Often mistaken for candy due to their bright colors and squishy texture, laundry pods contain concentrated detergent that can lead to chemical burns and breathing difficulties.

Alcohol and Caffeine

Even small amounts of alcohol or caffeine found in household beverages can have severe effects on a child’s body.

Nicotine Products

E-cigarette liquid, nicotine patches, and chewing tobacco can be extremely toxic to children, even in tiny amounts.

Popular Household Gadgets

Items such as rechargeable lighters, magnetic toys, and certain herbal supplements trending online may also pose poisoning risks if not stored or handled properly.

According to Sarah, parents should take the following precautions to protect their children:

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