Clean House: How to Get Rid of Domestic Sources of Pollution
Since I gave birth to my children, my primary concern was—and still is—their safety. I immediately started reading the scientific literature on safety issues and very soon I realised that the risks are not limited only to inadequate bottle sterilisation or exposed corners and sockets, but also to invisible sources of pollution that make the house toxic. Let's identify them one by one and see what we can change to purify the space in which we live, and enjoy a healthy living environment for ourselves and our children.
5 of the Most Toxic Items You Have in your Home
FURNITURE
Possible source of: formaldehyde, volatile compounds (VOCs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
Regardless of the construction material, toxic substances are emitted into the atmosphere from glues, varnishes, paints or any “non-combustible” and "stain-proof" wallpapers.
Solution: Avoid furniture made of particle board and polyurethane foam. Go for untreated wood or wood impregnated with ecological varnish, as well as fabrics made of natural fibres, such as cotton and wool.
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Possible source of: asbestos
Although its use has been banned, asbestos is still hidden in insulations of old buildings, pipes, chimneys and glue materials. It is a greatest threat to health when it is damaged or processed, as asbestos fibres diffuse into the atmosphere making it highly toxic.
Solution: Replace suspect materials with certified ones.
Parquet
Possible source of: volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
The root of evil is usually hidden in the varnishes used to polish wooden floors, as they often contain harmful chemicals.
Solution: Go for wooden floors made of bamboo or cork, which are quite robust and do not need frequent care or use ecological polish varnishes.
CARPETS
Possible source of: formaldehyde, phthalates, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzyl benzoate and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
Conventional carpets, especially those with labels such as “stain-proof”, “waterproof”, “antibacterial” or “non-flammable” have acquired these properties through many different chemical processes, which ultimately make them toxic.
Solution: Go for carpets made of natural materials, such as wool, jute and sisal, which undergo less processing.
MATTRESSES
Possible source of: polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates and formaldehyde
Polyurethane foam, thermoplastic elastomers and spandex fibres used in their manufacture release a whole lot of harmful substances that we inhale during our sleep.
Solution: Go for a mattress made of natural rubber, coconut fibres or other natural materials. An OEKO-TEX certification is a plus. A more economical alternative is the use of a polyurethane laminate (PUL) fabric cover.
Clean habits for a clean atmosphere
- Detox your home with indoor plants that clean the atmosphere. For detailed information, see the 10+1 beneficial indoor plants video on my GoodLife by Gina YouTube channel.
- Take shoes off at the entrance.
- Ventilate at least twice a day by opening the windows in all rooms, even in the winter, to refresh the air of the house.
- Avoid scented candles or air fresheners.
- Do not neglect the maintenance of air conditioners.
- Use ecological detergents.
- Replace the classic dusting feather with microfibre cloths that capture the dust and do not diffuse it into the air.
- Get an air ionizer for even more effective cleaning of the atmosphere from pollutants, microparticles and cigarette smoke.
- Get rid of old wood stoves and use more ecological heating methods.
- Don't smoke in the house.
