By La Jolla Vitality Co.

8 Simple Ways to Limit Exposure to Lawn Chemicals

By La Jolla Vitality Co.

Beautiful lawns often require herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers to control weeds and insects. While these products can be useful when used correctly, reducing unnecessary exposure is a sensible step, especially for young children, pregnant women, and pets, who may spend more time in close contact with the ground.

Here are eight easy ways to reduce your exposure without giving up time outdoors.

1. Stay Off Recently Treated Lawns

Follow the instructions on the product label and avoid walking, playing, or gardening on treated grass until it has completely dried or the recommended waiting period has passed.

2. Remove Your Shoes

Shoes can track lawn chemicals into your home, where they may end up on floors and carpets. Consider removing shoes at the door, especially after spending time on treated grass.

3. Wash Hands After Outdoor Activities

Wash your hands before eating, drinking, or touching your face after working in the yard or spending time on treated lawns.

4. Keep Children and Pets Away

Children and pets are more likely to have hand-to-mouth contact and spend more time close to the ground. Keep them off treated lawns until it is safe to return.

5. Wear Gloves While Gardening

If you're pulling weeds, spreading fertilizer, or working in soil, wear gardening gloves and wash your hands afterward.

6. Rinse Garden Produce

If you grow fruits or vegetables near treated areas, wash all produce thoroughly under running water before eating.

7. Consider Natural Lawn Care Options

When appropriate, choose lower-toxicity or integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, such as hand-pulling weeds, improving soil health, mowing at the proper height, and using mulch to naturally suppress weeds.

8. Wash Outdoor Clothing

If you've been applying lawn products or spending significant time on recently treated grass, wash your clothing separately before wearing it again.

The Bottom Line

You don't have to avoid parks or stop enjoying your yard to reduce your exposure to lawn chemicals. Simple habits like removing your shoes, washing your hands, keeping children and pets off recently treated grass, and considering lower-toxicity lawn care practices can help minimize unnecessary exposure while allowing you to continue enjoying the outdoors.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always follow the manufacturer's directions when using lawn care products. If you believe you or a family member has experienced significant exposure to a pesticide or other lawn chemical, contact your healthcare provider or your local Poison Control Center promptly.