Everyday Things That Went From Normal To Dangerous
It’s wild to think about how much our views on everyday items have changed over the years. Back in the day, things like lead paint and asbestos insulation were just part of the norm, while now we know they’re super dangerous. We’ve come a long way in understanding the effects of toxic materials and other hazards in our homes. It’s not just chemicals, either. Plenty of things once seen as perfectly safe are now frowned upon. Thanks to tons of research and increased awareness, we’ve turned things around.
From Normal To Dangerous: Everyday Things
Not long ago, lead was a common ingredient in paint, household pipes, and even playground equipment. According to EPA findings, “87% of homes constructed before 1940 contain lead-based paint, whereas 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1978 have traces of lead-based paint.”
But after learning about its not-so-friendly side effects like developmental issues in children and neurological damage, strict regulations have phased out its use. Today, lead-free paints and safer materials are the norm.
Heroin and various illegal drugs were once utilized both medicinally and recreationally in the past century. Heroin, originally marketed by Bayer in 1898 as a non-addictive substitute for morphine, was prescribed for pain relief and cough suppression. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that its addictive properties became widely recognized, leading to its ban in many countries.
Similarly, substances like cocaine were once common in medical treatments and even found in popular beverages like Coca-Cola in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, increased understanding of their addictive nature and harmful effects led to legal restrictions and medical guidelines that reshaped their use entirely.
Interestingly, seatbelts weren’t always a requirement in cars. Seatbelt requirements for cars were only mandated in the United States starting in 1966. By 1975, most other countries had also adopted similar regulations.
Apparently, children had the option to sit in the front seat, and infants could be held by someone other than the driver. By 1985, federal laws required children under certain ages to ride in a car safety seat.
This one may throw you off a bit. According to the Smithsonian, Lysol disinfectant was marketed as a feminine hygiene product. One historian said that “feminine hygiene” was a euphemism. Birth control was illegal in the U.S. until 1965 (for married couples) and 1972 (for single people). “These Lysol ads are actually for contraception. The campaign made Lysol the best-selling method of contraception during the Great Depression,” they said.
Now, the disinfectant brand comes with a warning label that says to avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. And to avoid breathing in the vapor or mist and ingesting.
That’s just a few everyday things that used to be normal that are now known to be dangerous.
