Understanding 1,4-Dioxane
You can't see, smell, or taste it, but a chemical called 1,4-Dioxane might be in your drinking water. It's a man-made liquid that easily mixes with water and can spread quickly through underground water sources, making it a tough problem to fix.
Where Does It Come From?
1,4-Dioxane isn't usually added to products on purpose. Instead, it forms as a hidden byproduct when certain ingredients are made. These ingredients are common in many everyday items you use, such as:
- Soaps, shampoos, and skin cleansers
- Laundry detergents and household glues
- Cosmetics, paints, and waxes
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Why Is 1,4-Dioxane Dangerous?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calls 1,4-Dioxane a "probable human carcinogen," meaning it's likely to cause cancer in people. Â
Even small amounts over a long time can increase your risk of cancer, especially liver and kidney cancer. Higher exposures can harm your liver, kidneys, and lungs. Â
The most common way people are exposed is by drinking contaminated tap water. You can also breathe it in from steam while showering or doing laundry with contaminated water. Children and the elderly may be at higher risk. Â
Why You Should Test Your Water
Because 1,4-Dioxane is undetectable by sight, taste, or smell, testing is the only way to know if it's in your water. Here's why testing is so important: Â
- It Stays in Water: This chemical doesn't break down easily and can remain in groundwater for a long time.
- Hard to Remove: Most common water filters can't effectively remove 1,4-Dioxane. Special treatment methods are needed.
- Limited Regulations: There are no federal rules that limit 1,4-Dioxane in tap water across the entire U.S. While some states have strict rules, many do not, leaving it up to you to check your water, especially if you have a private well.
- Special Tests Required: Standard water tests often miss 1,4-Dioxane. You need a specialized lab test to detect it accurately at low, health-relevant levels.
Knowing what's in your water helps you make smart choices to protect your family's health. Our 1,4-Dioxane Water Test is designed specifically to find this contaminant, providing clear, certified lab results.