Why a commonsense guide?

Toothpaste on a toothbrush. Commonsense Guide to Everyday Poisons

I was inspired to write The Commonsense Guide to Everyday Poisons by my years at poison control. While there, I spoke with thousands of people about accidental exposures to common household products.

Most of these accidents involved children engaging in age-appropriate exploration. But adults had their share of mishaps as well.

In every case, though, the caller was worried and didn’t know what to do. They brought this product into their home because it performed some useful function.

But then something unexpected happened, and suddenly they were afraid it might be harmful.

Why I wrote this book

My goal is to provide useful and interesting information about common household products.

Knowledge is the best defense against fear, and you shouldn’t be afraid of the products you buy and use.

Understanding your household products helps you make informed decisions about which ones you want to live with.

It also helps you react calmly and reasonably when accidents happen.

Why you should read this book

I gained a lot of knowledge as a Certified Specialist in Poison Information (CSPI). I also extensively research the products I write about.

Wherever possible I include uses you might not have thought of for those products. I’ve also included DIY projects and ways to make your own substitutes.

This book has been a true labor of love for me. It has something for everyone, and I think it will fit very comfortably on your family’s bookshelf.

Contact me

Teddy Vincent Angert, RN, BSN, CSPI
[email protected]
FB: commonsenseguide
T: @everydaypoisons

Poison control centers are invaluable resources and Everyday Poisons is not meant to replace them or the services they provide. Always keep the number handy (800-222-1222 in the US) and call whenever you have questions.


Like what you’ve read here? Buy the book!

Front cover for The Commonsense Guide to Everyday Poisons

An informative, fun and useful guide to more than 80 common household products

This indispensable book was written by a poison specialist. Finally—accurate, useful information you can trust.

You’ll find detailed ingredients, safety information and advice on managing accidental exposures.

More than just a first aid how-to, The Commonsense Guide to Everyday Poisons explains what ingredients are, where they come from and what they do.

Historical and surprising information is often included, as well as suggestions for DIY projects.

Now you can make informed decisions about the products you want in your home—and be prepared for the kind of accidental exposures that can happen at any time.

Where to buy the book