In many ways your home is an extension of your
body. In order for your home to nurture your physical well-being,
you need to be just as mindful of what you put in your home, as
what you put in your mouth. Many common household items, including
certain types of paint, finishes, carpeting, mattresses, curtains,
dry cleaning, pressed wood (particleboard, MDF), and cleaning products,
contain toxic chemicals. Many of the chemicals used in these household
products, such as formaldehyde, toluene and benzene, are Volatile
Organic Compounds (VOC’s) that, through a process called “off-gassing,”
release fumes into the air, causing indoor air pollution. A study
by the Environmental Protection Agency found that pollution inside
a home could be two to five times higher than outside the home,
even in large, industrialized cities.
Fortunately, there are a number of simple solutions to help you
create healthier air in your home. |
| 3. Buy All Natural Cleaning Products.
Household cleaning products are one of the leading causes of indoor
air pollution. Many household cleaning products contain chemicals
such as ammonia and phenol, which can irritate your skin and lungs,
and can cause headaches. Look for non-toxic, environmentally safe
household cleaning products. There is now a wide-range of all-natural
cleaning products available in stores such as Whole Foods. Many of
these products contain essential oils, so they have the pleasant aroma
of lavender, basil, orange, or lemon. |
| 5. When purchasing new furniture for your home or office, invest in natural materials Select furniture made of solid wood instead of pressed wood, like particle board or MDF, which contain chemicals. Also avoid synthetic carpets and opt for hardwood floors or natural floor coverings made of untreated wool, jute, sisal or bamboo. Next time you buy new bedding look for organic, untreated cotton sheets, untreated wool pillows and a wool or latex mattress. |
