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Have you heard about formaldehyde in pressed wood furniture or in your flooring? They release the most formaldehyde in our homes, which is a leading cause of indoor air pollution.

Do your part to track down other surprising sources of formaldehyde. Here are my top five:

Nail polish – Formaldehyde is often used in them to act as a preservative and hardener. One solution is to pick polishes that are water-based and formaldehyde free.

Hair products – Formaldehyde is actually released from preservatives found in many personal hair care products. Seeing The ingredients quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea formalin and methylene oxide on the back of any bottle should raise a warning flag. So, just avoid them. And, if you’re at a salon, ask questions about what they’re using, especially if you’re getting a hair straightening treatment.

Bedding – So-called “wrinkle free” bedspreads, sheets and pillowcases are usually loaded with chemical products that release formaldehyde, which can’ be washed away. Opt for bedding made from flannel or cotton jersey.

Kids’ hard plastic dishware – Avoid ones made from melamine resin. One way to tell if it’s labeled not safe for microwaves.

Air fresheners – Formaldehyde is a basic ingredient in the popular brands. But you have many natural options including sprinkling baking soda in problem areas, airing out your home, or lighting a soy candle.

Formaldehyde causes all sorts of problems from asthma to cancer. When you do your part to keep it out of your home and our environment we’ll all breathe easier.