What it is
Lead is a soft, heavy metal historically used in paint, plumbing solder, gasoline, and ceramic glazes.
It has been progressively banned or restricted in consumer products across the last 50 years, but legacy exposures remain widespread.
Why it matters
The CDC states there is no safe blood lead level in children. Even low exposures affect cognitive development, attention, and behaviour.
Lead from paint (pre-1978 homes), old plumbing, imported spices, and imported ceramics are the most common household sources today.
Water is a leading route of exposure where old lead service lines or brass fixtures are present.
Common uses
- Historical: paint, gasoline, solder, glazes, cosmetics
- Legacy: old plumbing service lines and brass fixtures
- Occasional contaminant: imported spices, cosmetics, ceramics
Safety considerations
- Test drinking water in older homes and use an NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter for lead reduction if levels are elevated.
- Assume painted surfaces in pre-1978 homes contain lead until proven otherwise.
- Prefer bakeware and cookware from brands that publish independent heavy-metal testing.
Where you meet it in the home
- Water — old plumbing, brass faucets
- Paint — pre-1978 painted surfaces
- Kitchen — imported ceramics, crystal, some spices
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Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my water has lead?
The only certain answer is a certified lab test. Local utilities can often provide a free test kit; independent labs are inexpensive.
Does a Brita remove lead?
Some Brita models are certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead reduction; many are not. Check the specific model, and verify the certification, not the marketing.
Editorial references
- U.S. CDC — Lead poisoning prevention
- U.S. EPA — Lead and Copper Rule
Last updated 2026-07-18.