Question from Rachel

Hello! I am wanting to use a natural soap to bathe with and make laundry detergent. I came across Kirks Castile Soap. I found a recipe on their website on how to make homemade laundry soap. Do you know if the bar soap has any “toxic” ingredients? I also thought about using Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap to bathe with. What are your thoughts?

Debra’s Answer

I used Kirks Castile Soap many years ago because it was one of the only soaps I could find at the time that didn’t have artificial fragrance and colors in it. However, it’s made primarily from coconut oil, which made my skin so dry I had to stop using it. Just went to their website to check the ingredients and OMG! Lots of industrial chemicals! Compare these ingredients with any of the natural handmade soaps I’ve listed on Debra’s List. This is also a good source for soaps for bathing. I have no objection to Dr. Bronners, but to me, handmade soaps are more interesting and they are made by hand.

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Question from Linda

Do Swarovski crystals pose a health danger? Say if I wear a Swarovski crystal necklace, can the lead leach off the beads and penetrate my skin and into the bloodstream causing lead poisoning? What about their Aurora Borealis beads? Those are quoted with tin foil (so I’ve been told) at back, meaning this would directly touch the throat area. If it’s hot and I’m wearing either, is leaching inevitable or are they somehow safe? Thank you for your help.

Debra’s Answer

Swarovski crystals DO contain lead, however, they say “the crystal manufacturing process creates a matrix which inhibits the mobility of lead. In other words, lead is bound into the structure of the crystal. Because of this structure, lead crystal poses no significant risk of excessive lead exposure to human health via surface contact (hand to mouth), mouthing or even ingestion. Indeed, Swarovski crystals have been tested under a variety of test methods for extractable lead. Test conditions and procedures do vary, but lead levels are well below regulatory limits even when the crystal is tested in an acid solution to maximize the release of lead.” Read more about this at http://www.i-kandi.com/CPSIA-Crystal-Lead-Statement.htm

Tin could be absorbed by the skin with contact, so I would not recommend wearing the Aurora Borealis beads against your skin. You could wear them over clothing if you want.

Question from Sheri

I have MCS also..I need a new couch and new chair. What advice can you give me on brands or what to look for to protect myself and my pets from the outgassing. Glue really bothers me and formyaldehyde. Thanks, Sheri

Debra’s Answer

Readers, any other creative suggestions?

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TB117-2013 is a new California flammability standard for upholstered furniture (which includes, couches, padded chairs, but NOT mattresses). Because it is not feasible for manufacturers to make different versions of products for different states, the California standard has effectively been and will continue to be the standard for the entire United States. Currently it’s still in the proposal stage, but it’s in the news this week because the deadline to make comments is next Tuesday, March 26.

California Governor Jerry Brown has directed the Bureau of Electronic & Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation to redo the TB117 flammability standard in a way that reduces the use of flame-retardants while still maintaining fire safety. But will the currently proposed revision actually do that?

The existing TB117 rule requires the filling materials of household furnishings (polyurethane foam in most cases) to pass an open-flame test. This is where the foam is exposed to a flame and the foam is required to meet specific flammability criteria. Because polyurethane foam is has an “open cell” structure, there is a tremendous amount of air available between the thin cell walls, which makes the foam extremely flammable. In order to comply with the extisting law, foam manufacturers have to add flame-retardant chemicals into the foam.

These flame-retardant chemicals, however, are only of limited value, because once the foam does ignite, the resulting fire can be just as massive as a fire with untreated foam. Even worse, once there is a fire, the various flame-retardant chemicals are released into the air and create even more toxic conditions for residents and fire fighters. Fire retardants have been found in the blood of fire fighters, and cancer rates are up among them.

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Question from mc19

Hi Debra, I have a question about soap dispensers for liquid soap. I have been searching for an affordable non-plastic liquid soap dispenser for our sinks (we use bar soap in the shower, but liquid soap suits our needs better by the main sinks) and I think I may have found a possibility. I found two options one is a bronze foaming pump and the other is copper (I plan to attach the pump to an old glass beverage bottle). Both according to the website are made of real metal and not metal-plated plastic. Is there anything to be concerned about with these leaching? We wash our hands quite frequently with having a little one, so I just want to be careful. Also, is it anything to be concerned about that all liquid soap dispensers have the plastic tubing that the soap travels through? I can’t find any source of information that tells me what kind of plastic that is. Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

There’s nothing to be concerned about those metals leaching as long as they are not touching the soap.

All the liquid soap dispensers probably have plastic tubing because plastic is “non-reactive”, that is, it won’t react chemically with the soap in the dispenser.

I called around and found that the plastic used for that part that touches the soap in the bottle is typically made from either polyethylene or polypropylene, two of the safest plastics there are.

So I’m not concerned about these soap dispensers.

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Question from Catherine

Hello, I let my niece borrow my breastpump and upon getting it back noticed a strong floral perfume scent. I called her and she laughed…I guesss it was stored in her front room where she has candles and oils present all the time. I had to throw all of the plastic componants away tubing etc…they wouldn’t wash out. Now I am wondering if the motor is okay or if I should buy a new pump altogether. I don’t think the scent can contaminate with new parts, but want to be sure

Debra’s Answer

Personally, I would just buy a new pump.

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Question from J in Va

I have done away with harmful cleaning products in our home. My concern is any accidental contact with bleach or ammonia residue from cleansers that may have been used previously. For example, I am becoming a big fan of vinegar. Is it safe to clean bathrooms that may have previously been cleaned with a cleaner containing bleach? Is a good rinse with water sufficient before trying a different product? And what about laundry? Can I use vinegar in my laundry immediately following someone else who may have used bleach? Trying to avoid any mishaps! I also have discovered Scotch Brite disinfecting wipes with cleanwell. Do I need to take any special precautions with using those? If only labels would be clear! Thanks so much for all you do to keep us on the right track!

Debra’s Answer

There are some cleaners you do need to take care to not combine, particularly ammonia and bleach, which can produce deadly fumes.

Don’t combine bleach with vinegar either, as it releases toxic chlorine gas from the bleach. But I doubt there would be enough bleach, if any, on a surface previously-cleaned-with-bleach to cause any problem. If you have any doubt, rinse the surface first with plain water. Also any bleach residue in the washer should not be a problem.

You don’t need to take any special precautions with Scotch Brite disinfecting wipes with cleanwell. “Cleanwell” is simply thyme oil. This product is made with sodium lauryl sulfate and thyme oil. It’s the thyme oil that is the disinfectant. You could just mix thyme oil with anything you want as a carrier.

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Question from Linda

I have central heating with duct work that is not sealed tight so it is not energy efficient and it has asbestos. I need to decide between leaving the existing duct work with the asbestos or removing and replacing it.

The company I am working with is recommending air ducts that are Greenguard certified for Indoor Air Quality and for children and schools. These ducts have a fiberglass core. I am confused by this certification that is rating it as safe and yet it has a fiberglass core. I do not know enough about this subject to be able to evaluate whether this is a good option.

Here is a link to the Greenguard Environmental Institute, www.greenguard.org. Here is a link to the air duct company ,http://www.jplflex.com/products/default.asp. The product I am considering is the “silver jacket.” If you click on it, you can get more detailed info, click again and you can see the “data sheet.”

Do you recommend this product or another product? Removing the central heat is not an option. Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any experience with this product but it looks to me that the fiberglass in between two layers of stainless steel. So it should meet that Greenguard standard. I don’t see a problem with this product.

Readers, any suggestions for air ducts?

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Question from E.K

I came across a placemat that is made of durable sheets that have been laminated. I did a search on laminates but I couldn’t find anything pertaining to this type of lamination or if it has any relation to laminate flooring. I was hoping you would be able to help with this situation. I’m looking for non-toxic placemats that are not cotton. (Have a toddler and would like something that I could wipe down) I have come across silicone placemats and children’s rubber placemats but that’s about it. Are there any other option that you know of? Does the laminate off gas or unsafe to eat off of? Thanks so much for all you do!

Debra’s Answer

The word “laminate” simply means that multiple layers have been fused together to improve performance. A laminate is usually made permanent with heat, pressure, welding, or adhesives.

A laminate floor is made from layers of wood and adhesives.

A laminate placemat is usually some type of artwork sandwiched between two pieces of plastic. If you’ve ever taken a driver’s license or luggage tags to a copy store to be laminated, it’s the same process. You put the driver’s license between two sheets of plastic and run it through a machine that applies heat and pressure, and when it comes out, it’s protected with a thin film of hard, clear plastic.

The standard plastic for lamination is polyethylene perephthalate (PET), the same plastic used to make soda bottles.

Antimony is used as a catalyst in the production of PET. After manufacturing, a detectable amount of antimony can be found on the surface of the product. This residue can be removed with washing. Antimony also remains in the material itself and can, thus, migrate out into food and drinks. Would this be a danger on placemats? Probably the more you wipe it, the less antimony there would be.

Personally, I don’t have any laminated placemats in my house. I use cotton placemats that I can throw in the washer and sanitize with hot water.

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Question from kristen

Are you familiar with Phenol-formaldehyde used in cookware products? Specifically a metal tea kettle, where the lid and handle are made of this material. I know formaldehyde is toxic, but in this application do you think it is releasing anything or could leach out in any way? Thank you for your time.

Debra’s Answer

Yes I am familiar with this. It’s been called “the first real plastic”. It is formed from an elimination reaction of phenol with formaldehyde. During the manufacturing process, the phenol and formaldehyde react to make a new material that is not toxic. It has been used to make many consumer products and is still used today. It’s not releasing anything and not leaching. You can use it without concern.

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Question from rachel

how long does it take vinyl flooring and the glue they use to stop making one sick It gave me bronchitis

Debra’s Answer

It can take months or years depending on conditions.

If this is a problem for you, I recommend that you tear it out and install a floor that doesn’t make you sick.

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Question from Cindy

I bought two unfinished pine beds at IKEA for my granddaughters that I would like to paint or varnish, but I’m not sure how to go about doing this in the most nontoxic way. I’m not only concerned with toxins, but also termites getting into the wood. Would the wood need to be treated with Timbor or something similar before painting? Or would a nontoxic wood finish be sufficient? And if I decide to paint a color, would the wood finish need to be applied first, or is the color alone sufficient? I would appreciate your best recommendations. I’ve already purchased wool mattresses from Shepherd’s Dream, & want to make sure both of my granddaughters have a good nontoxic bed. Thank you so much for all you do.

Debra’s Answer

You don’t need to treat the wood first. According to Dr. Don’s Termite Pages , “If they don’t know it is wood, they may not find it. Keep all exterior wood well coated with paint or varnish, especially the larger bits and at the joins and ends. Drywood termites begin their attack with just two termites. First the female selects a likely place to live and then pairs up with a male before they start tunnelling. So if you can make the wood unattractive, the termites won’t even try. A bit of preservative can go a long way. If it doesn’t taste good, the termites won’t hang around.”

If you decide to paint a color, generally the color is applied first and then the wood finish goes on top, or a colored finish is used.

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Question from Carol

As I was searching online for products to re-do our kitchen, I came across Green Planet Paints at one of the stores. It sounds good. What do you think?

Debra’s Answer

What a great find!

While I haven’t yet tried these paints myself, on paper they look great…zero VOCs, plant based (soy), and a beautiful palette of natural colors that come from mineral and clay pigments instead of petroleum.

I’m going to try these paints.

Let us know how you like them!

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Question from Dawn

Has anyone found information about the new Pampered Chef white ceramic-coated cookware? I called the company two weeks ago to get more information, and was referred to the Test Kitchen. I left a voice message there, and have not heard back.

The rep who transferred me to the test kitchen told me the same thing a PC consultant sent me: “Features & Benefits: Aluminum cookware is attractive and lightweight for easy handling. The interior of the cookware features a white ceramic easy release coating that allows for easy release of foods and for quick clean-up. Plus, the white color makes it easy to monitor food and delicate sauces. The 4 mm thickness allows for even heat distribution while minimizing hot spots and reacts to temperature adjustments quickly. The cookware features riveted stainless steel and silicone handles making them secure and durable. Silicone handle diffuses heat and makes for a soft and comfortable grip and features a hanging loop in handle which allows pans can be hung for storage. Cookware can be placed in oven to 400°F (200°C). Lids feature a stainless steel, tempered glass construction with a silicone handle; this allows you to cook and look. Lids are dishwasher safe and oven safe to 400°F (200° C).This gives cookware versatility; food can be started on the stovetop and then finished in the oven. All pieces have a shaved aluminum rim and base for increased durability. Hand wash to optimize the maximum life of the cookware.”

I wanted more information on what “white ceramic easy release coating” means. If I hear back from the test kitchen I will post again.

Lisa’s Answer

Updated January, 2020:  I do not recommend ceramic coating.  You can read more in my Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Cookware.

Question from Stacey

I have recently read that recycled paper products contain BPA. I switched to recycled paper towels and toilet paper, and even paper plates, thinking they contained less chemicals, but now worry about the BPA in the recycled paper. What are we to use? I use Seventh Generation paper products but think they must be tainted since they are recycled. I am contacting the company…I feel nothing is safe! Thanks so much!

Debra’s Answer

That’s right, BPA is found in virtually all recycled paper.

I understand how you feel. On March 1st, our local water company started adding fluoride back into our water supply. I have a water filter that removes fluoride to nondetectible levels, but I went out to lunch and thought, “All this food is prepared with fluoridated water…” I just didn’t want to eat.

The way things are today, we can’t escape toxic chemicals 100%. What needs to happen is they need to stop being used. It’s possible, we have the technology, it’s a matter of making the choice. Most people still don’t understand there is even a problem.

You actually don’t need to use paper towels or toilet paper. I use cotton towels. And there is such a thing as a bidet, which requires no toilet paper. There are separate bidets, and also bidet sprays that can be added to your toilet. I haven’t really explored this option myself, so that’s about all I can tell you about that.

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Question from Bonnie

I have a friend who recently purchased a foam mattress from a company called CertiPUR-US. It claims to be a green item with very little off gassing. I have an older mattress in my guest room and was thinking about replacing it. Any info on them?

Debra’s Answer

CertiPUR-US certifies polyurethane foam that is advertised by various retailers as “certified nontoxic foam.”

CertiPUR-US is a registered certification mark of Alliance for Flexible Polyurethane Foam. The Alliance itself has no website.

The Polyurethane Foam Association describes the Alliance as “A voluntary testing, analysis and certification program developed by members of the global foam industry in response to an increase in substandard imported foam products.”

And on a promotional piece published by the Alliance, it says “The Alliance for Flexible Polyurethane Foam is a joint program of The Alliance for the Polyurethanes Industry and the Polyurethane Foam Association.”

So this is not an independent third party certification program, but rather the industry certifying itself.

This CertiPUR-US “certified nontoxic foam” is a petrochemical polyurethane foam that has been tested and certified by an independent lab to meet specific standards for “physical performance, indoor air emissions and environmental stewardship.”

CertiPUR-US does not perform the independent lab test themselves, but instead directs manufacturers to a CertiPUR-US approved laboratory. Then the signed application and all test data are sent to CertiPUR-US for review and certification. www.certipur.us/pages/for-foam-suppliers/#how

www.certipur.us/about-our-seal/

The CertiPUR-US emissions criteria are:

• Made without ozone depleters
• Made without PBDEs
• Made without mercury, lead and heavy metals
• Made without formaldehyde
• Made without phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission
• Low VOC emissions (less than 0.5 parts per million)

Their website (www.certipur.us/about-our-seal/) explains the CERTI-PUR claims as follows:

* Made without ozone depleters

“Ozone’s presence is important in our upper atmosphere, where it provides a shield from the sun’s radiant energy. The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, mandated that industries eliminate ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) by the year 2000. U.S. foam producers were well ahead of schedule in complying with this regulation. Unfortunately, in some parts of the world, CFCs are still used to manufacture foam. The CertiPUR-US label prohibits the use of any CFCs, or other ozone depleters, in the foam manufacturing process.”

NOTE: US manufacturers don’t use ozone depleters, so any US foam qualifies

* Made without PBDE flame retardants

“These controversial fire retardants have been linked inconclusively to chronic illness in cats and humans. Some PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) were used in foam to meet certain state flammability requirements, but those PBDEs were effectively banned in the U.S. by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in January 2005. U.S. foam producers no longer use PBDEs. Laboratory testing verifies that CertiPUR-US certified foams are made without using PBDEs.”

NOTE: PBDEs are no longer used by US foam producers at all because they were banned by the EPA in January 2005. This certification does not guarantee that there are no fire retardants, only PBDE is disallowed, which is not even legal to use any more. Even if they add more single flame retardants to their list, the field of chemical flame retardants is broad, and any of these chemicals could be present in the foam.

* Made without mercury, lead and other heavy metals

“Though not common components of foam chemistry, heavy metals in food (mercury in fish) and in the home (lead paint in children’s toys) have made the entire heavy metal family an area of concern. CertiPUR-US laboratory testing subjects material extracted molecular analysis capable of detecting even trace amounts of heavy metal content. CertiPUR-US verifies that registered foams are made without mercury, lead and other heavy metals.”

NOTE: heavy metals are not commonly used to make foam

* Made without formaldehyde

“Like heavy metals, formaldehyde has never been used as a raw material in foam. Formaldehyde has been labeled as a cause of poor indoor air quality. The absence of formaldehyde in foam is verified in CertiPUR-US-certified foam by a small chamber emission test.”

NOTE: formaldehyde has never been used as a raw material in the making of foam

* Made without phthalates are prohibited for certification.

“Phthalates (pronounced ‘thal-āts) are mainly used as a softening agent in the manufacture of some consumer products. The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (2009) eliminated the use of seven specific phthalates for use in children’s toy and child care items. CertiPUR-US goes a step further by requiring detailed laboratory analysis of foam extractions and prohibiting the use of phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission in all CertiPUR-US certified foams.”

NOTE: Only the prohibited phthalates are prohibited for certification. This certification does not guarantee that there are no phthalates, only the seven regulated phthalates are disallowed.

* Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million)

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a major component of air pollution. VOC emissions from household products are also a concern for indoor air quality.CertiPUR-US certified foams are tested using a small chamber test standardized by ASTM International. In the test, foam samples are conditioned for 72 hours after which emissions of total organic compounds are measured. Results of this test verify that CertiPUR-US compliant foams can be identified as low emission.

NOTE: Low emission does not mean “no emission.”

So pretty much every foam manufactured in the USA could be certified.

My conclusion is that this certification gives consumers a false sense of security that the CertiPUR certified polyurethane foams:

1. are certified by an independent third party certification program, to
2. meet a higher standard than other foams manufactured in the USA.

But in fact, it’s the polyurethane foam industry certifying that the foams that carry the seal meet a standard for which any polyurethane manufactured in the USA could qualify.

Question from Jennifer Abromowitz

Hi Debra, I am planning plaster walls for a bedroom addition. I am intending to plaster over wallboard rather than use wood lathe (which is usually fir and aromatic, or metal – which I don’t like to surround myself with).

Wondering if wall board contains any chemicals, mold inhibitors, paint etc. What about the joint compounds used to mud it? Are there any preferred products from an Environmental standpoint?

I have been told that drywall is exactly the same stuff as plaster, so why plaster? Is this true? It doesn’t feel the same to me. Is there a preferred kind of plaster to use for plastering – that is plastering over drywall (ie do you just buy Plaster of Paris or are the options all the same?)

Last I have been told that plaster will not stick on regular wall board without a toxic vinyl acetate glue…but that I could use blueboard without the glue. Is blueboard usually ok? It is supposed to be basically wall board with a rough texture skin that plaster adheres better to. Any advice? Thanks

Debra’s Answer

OK. I understand that you want plaster walls. I can understand that. I have old plaster walls in my house and they are beautiful. And they don’t need to be painted.

I applied colored plaster on my bathroom walls, which already had wallboard. I had to apply a “sanded primer” so it would stick. I got the primer from AFM Safecoat. And then I used plaster from American Clay.

Wallboard is made from gypsum, with a paper cover. It may contain performance additives, but if you get just regular wallboard, it should just be gymsum.

Blueboard is standard wallboard with a blue paper cover that is specially treated with a form of aluminum to hold plaster. There is no offgassing, but it does create a dust hazard when cutting. If you want plaster walls, this is probably the easiest way to go.

There are three types of plaster:

I think I answered all your questions.

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Question from LLB52

Does anyone know where to buy affordable organic towels? Mine are worn out and everywhere I look they are very expensive. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have an answer offhand, but I’ll tell you what I would do to find the least expensive organic towels.

Google has a “shopping” feature where it will tell you prices. Here are the results for organic cotton towels

If this link doesn’t work, just type “organic cotton towels” into google and look for the shopping feature.

Scroll down to the bottom of the page and it will let you shop by type ie washcloth, hand towel, bath towel.

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Question from Gustavo R

Hi Debra! When I moved to my house 10 years ago, I had the hardwood floor sanded and then varnish was applied. The brand of the varnish was “Synteko”. I googled it and found a Data Sheet ( http://www.nam.synteko.com/DataSheets-Classic.pdf ) of this product, but I can’t be 100% sure that the ingredients of the varnish are still the same of the one applied 10 years ago, as they might have changed. But I’m pretty confident it had at least urea/formaldehyde, as I had to stay out of my house for a few days because of the strong smell. I wish I had read your book by then and this varnish would’ve never been applied. Now that I know about the dangers of these chemicals, should I be concerned about off gasing and health problems that might arise because of this varnish? Or after 10 years, there’s little to be concerned about? Many thanks, Gustavo

Debra’s Answer

Yes, pretty toxic during application, but the solvents evaporated long ago. It’s highly unlikely there is any outgassing going on now.

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Question from Gigi

Debra,

Thank you again for expertise, skill and wisdom.

Regarding stainless steel, now we have another threat that is nearly unimanginable.

The DoD is proposing that they to sell 14,000 tons of radioactive scrap metal from government nuclear sites to the marketplace. That means we could soon be buying radiation tainted silver and cutlery ware, belt buckles, zippers, surgical implants, and other consumer products.

As you can imagine, scrap metal businesses are NOT happy about being told to recycle this hazardous material.

We are already seeing these tainted products. Due to a random inspection of a commercial truck in Northern California, Cobalt-60 radioactivity showed up in metal bathroom tissue boxes within the truck. Enough to set an alarm off at a CHP inspection station. A recall had to be issued for theses boxes which were being sold at Bed, Bath, and Beyond (one of my favorite local stores).

Debra’s Answer

Will they never learn?

Another reason to take Pure Body Liquid Zeolite. You never know what you are going to run into. Pure Body will remove radioactive particles from your body as well as heavy metals and other toxic chemicals. I take it every day just as a safeguard.

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Question from K Hill

If polycarbonate leaches BPA, then what about the Vitamix container?

Debra’s Answer

Since late 2007, all of the Vitamix containers and lids are BPA-free (since Model 5200). If you have an older Vitamix you can swap out the container and lid for a new one.

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Question from Dierdre

Can you suggest an insulating spray foam product I can use around a window?

The code requires that window installers/builders fill any gaps with insulating material – caulk doesn’t count. They usually use the insulating foam, but my builder said he can use fiberglass instead. Do you think this would be better? With fiberglass, of course, I worry about any airborne fibers, but I guess if it’s sealed inside it wouldn’t be an issue. I guess the fibers couldn’t escape via infiltration of air through the building envelope.

Thanks so very much, Debra. And thanks for all the great work you do in general.

Debra’s Answer

Here’s the story about these insulating spray foams.

First, they are all alike. There’s not one better than another, so your contractor can use whichever one they want to use.

They are VERY TOXIC to apply. Like they should be wearing respirators and hazmat suits. But once they cure, these foams are totally NOT TOXIC. So you can have it in your house, but don’t be there while it’s being installed and air your house thoroughly after.

Be careful when looking for a nontoxic insulating spray foam because websites will say “nontoxic” referring to the end result, and neglect to tell you how toxic it is during installation.

Fiberglass would be much better.

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Question from JAD

I run a native plant nursery and we try to be chemical free.

One of the volunteers has brought in volck oil. I looked it up and it is 97% petroleum oil.

We have 3 Chemical Sensitive volunteers and one complained about feeling ill after being in the nursery 5 days after this product was used. Do you think this could still made her ill. I have had a headache this last 10 days and have been puzzled why and maybe this is it?

Before I mention to everyone not to use it I would like some Professional help on what to tell them.

Thank you as always.

Debra’s Answer

I’m looking at the MSDS for Volck Oil and it says, as you noted, that it is 97% mineral oil. Mineral oil is not very toxic, but it is made from petroleum and anything made from petroleum could cause a reaction in someone with MCS, regardless of the toxicity.

But I’m more concerned about the “inert ingredients.” The MSDS says

This product contains a petroleum distillate. Due to the low viscosity of petroleum distillate, it can directly enter the lungs if it is swallowed (this is called aspiration). This can occur during the act of swallowing or when vomiting the substance. Once in the lungs, the substance is very difficult to remove and can cause severe injury to the lungs and death.

This product certainly could cause symptoms.

A safer thing to do would be to just get plain mineral oil and spray that on the plants for pest control. Since mineral oil is the active ingredient in Volck oil, it should work just fine. You don’t need those toxic chemicals.

Question from Mary

Not exactly a question, but I was looking at a pillow case that I had bought years ago through a mail-order company that you had listed in one of your early books. You had named several sources of cotton clothing and cotton bedding, etc. That was a long time ago, before we had the Internet. Looking back, I have to wonder how you found all those wonderful companies. I just wanted to say thank you for providing solutions to so many problems over the years!

Debra’s Answer

You’re welcome. It’s my pleasure. It really is. It’s a delight to discover all these great nontoxic products in a world where so much is toxic and I enjoy telling others about them. It’s a win-win. All of you get to find the products you want and need to be healthy, and your purchases help the wonderful businesses who provide these products to stay in business. I’m happy to be the connection.

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Question from Mary A.

I just purchased a beautiful handmade pottery mug online. Unfortunately, It has a strong smell of perfume and also of smoke!.. The artist says she stores her materials in her laundry room …hence the perfume smell, and smokes in the garage where some items are stored. She will take the item as a return, however, I would love to keep it if I can ‘deodorize’ it . Any suggestions? also, even if the odor itself is gone, could the substance still be there for me when I drink hot tea in it ? thanks for your input!

Debra’s Answer

Well, this is the first I’ve heard of this! I would just return the mug and find another one you like.

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Question from Eddi

Has any of you heard about the “Scentsy” products? I got one as a Christmas present, but hesitant to use it in case it’s toxic…

Debra’s Answer

Please do not use this. It’s one of many scented products that contain artificial fragrances that are very toxic. Read Q&A: Fragrance is Hazardous to Your Health

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Question from Lauren

Hi Debra,

Thank you so much for your website. I have learned so much from it and I really appreciate the time you put into answering readers’ questions and conducting research.

I know from reading your site that clothes that are cotton/poly blends are treated with formaldehyde, and so I try to stick to 100% cotton clothing for myself and my family.

However, I realized that some of the clothing (like pajamas with “satin” trim) say 100% cotton exclusive of decoration. If the decoration, such as the embroidery, the trim, or in some clothing the drawstring made of ribbon, is polyester but the rest of the garment is cotton, would this item still be treated with formaldehyde?

Also, what about 100% cotton items that are sewn with polyester thread (and how do you know if something is sewn with polyester thread?) are they also treated?

Finally, I am also curious about buttons—we have lots of clothing with buttons and they are all plastic—-is the plastic in buttons harmful (like possibly containing BPA)?

Debra’s Answer

Cotton poly fabrics are treated with a formaldehyde resin to keep them wrinkle-free, however those “decorations” probably aren’t even if they are made from polyester. As far as I know, it’s only the fabric.

Polyester thread would not be treated with formaldehyde as far as I know. Most cotton clothing is sewn with polyester thread because cotton thread breaks too easily. But there are some manufacturers who sew with cotton thread. For myself, I don’t reject an item of clothing over polyester thread.

Buttons are made from many different types of plastic, but I’ve never seen a button I thought was toxic. You are exposed to more BPA handling cash register receipts than you are from buttons.

I wouldn’t be concerned about any of these items as being a source of toxic exposure. However, some people with MCS may react to them because they are made from petrochemicals.

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Question from Debbie

Thank you Debra, for all that you do to help all of us. I sure do appreciate all the help you give.

We had our shower torn out due to mold and are trying to decide on what to rebuild it with. Fiberglass, acrylic, or vinyl is out.

Cultured marble seems easy to clean and there are no grout lines to have to seal yearly and clean with a toothbursh. Having had mold, a solid, non-pourous surface like that makes sense.

However, I am chemically sensitive and am wondering if taking a shower with cultured marble and breathing the steam from the hot water would cause problems?

Please help me as we need to make a decision very soon. Thank you, Debbie

Debra’s Answer

I looked up “cultured marble” to find out what it is actually made from and found that it falls into a category called “solid surface.”

A few years ago I did some research on solid surface products and found that they varied widely in toxicity.

Corian, for example, may emit methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate vapors, according to their MSDS.

On the other hand, Swanstone, another solid surface countertop, is completely inert, no VOCs, and OSHA does not even require any kind of protection for workers in their factories. It’s certified safe for food preparation. It’s also compression molded to be five times stronger than Corian. So you need to look at each brand individually.

I think if you want a solid surface, Swanstone would be a good choice.

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Question from RedondoSun

Hello! I am getting ready to purchase a comforter from White Lotus Home and wanted some advice. I see their wool is not organic, but 100% virgin wool. Is there a difference? Or shall I go for the organic cotton comforter to be safe? Thank you always, Debra!

Debra’s Answer

Actually White Lotus Home DOES have organic wool. So you could choose from their organic wool or organic cotton comforter. I have a wool comforter and I love it!

I asked White Lotus Home President Marlon Pando to respond about the wool. Here is his reply:

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Question from Kathy

I am looking to buy stainless steel drink ware, including straws, to use for both hot and cold beverages. My thoughts conflict on nickle content vs environmental responsibility. Comments?

Debra’s Answer

As a rule I don’t recommend stainless steel anything if there is another alternative, both because of heavy metals that can leach into food and beverages from the stainless steel but also because of the environmental effects of producing steel. Yes, much steel today is recycled, which lessens the impact, but it still requires mining of metals and heavy industrial processes.

I’m not sure what environmental responsibility you are referring to exactly, or what use you have that requires unbreakable drinkware and straws.

Is your question the health effects of nickel from stainless steel straws versus the environmental impact of throwing away numerous plastic straws?

First I would question if straws need to be used at all. I rarely use straws. I have some reusable glass straws, but since I rarely use straws, they rarely get used. If you need a reusable straw, these glass straws would be much better from a health viewpoint than stainless steel, and better for the environment in terms of manufacturing as well. Glass straws may seem fragile, but they are actually quite heavy-duty and well made.

If you really want to use stainless steel straws there probably would be little problem with nickel. In order for a metal to leach into a beverage, there needs to be a factor of time present, and a beverage whooshing through the straw for less than a second is hardly enough time for leaching. What would be more important would be the time the straw is sitting in the glass or the time your lips are on the straw. And then with stainless steel drinkware, the length of time the beverage is in the glass.

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Question from Peru Lover

Does anyone know what kind of varnish they use on soapstone carvings from Peru and how toxic it is?

I want to buy a cute mini animal sculpture but it’s awfully shiny. Seller is in the USA and doesn’t know. Assuming it’s old enough and is done off-gassing, would this be a liver-toxic chemical? (I have liver disease which I think is the cause of my MCS).

I Googled and can’t find anything further than “varnish” or “butcher’s varnish” and “wax”. On Google images, unvarnished soapstone is definitely dull and this shines all over.

Is it possible to strip the varnish at all with like vinegar&baking soda? Anyway any input will be much welcome, sorry if it’s a silly question, I know I should shop safe sellers but it’s just something inexpensive I found and well I kinda fell in love with 2 of them. Thank you so much!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know anything about this. “Varnish” and “wax” are two very different things and could have varying degrees of toxicity, from very to not at all.

When I am uncertain about the toxicity of something, I avoid the exposure.

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Question from Angelique

My husband took a new job at a company that uses a lot of auto-spray air “fresheners” in certain areas of the building. There was one in his office, but thankfully he was able to remove that.

He talked to HR, because he knows that they have a “no fragrance” policy, and if they’re worried about harming employees with fragrances, he wondered why they weren’t worried about harming them with air “fresheners.”

It turns out that the building is old and has poor ventilation, and some areas just get stale, stuffy and smelly, which is why they use the auto sprays. They told him to ask me what they could do instead of spray air fresheners. I asked him if they were trying to cover the odor of bodies, mold or something else, but he doesn’t know.

I’d love to talk to HR myself, but he’s brand new there and I don’t know if he wants me to ask them a bunch of questions. At least we have on opportunity to change the situation. Since it doesn’t sound like they’re about to improve the ventilation, I need suggestions!

Obviously I’m going to suggest air purifiers. But I know from experience that even the best purifiers — because I own $1500 Aller Airs — don’t get rid of all the odors an old building can produce. I’ve even thought of gentle fans, which help circulate stale air.

What natural, non-chemical thing would make a stuffy room seem less stuffy?

Debra’s Answer

Zeolite works very well for passive odor control, as it simply absorbs odors. Here’s a page with more information and some zeolite products: http://www.refreshinglyfree.com/Online-Catalog/Zeolite-Odor-and-Moisture-Control-Products

Also, talk to Daliya at Nirvana Safe Haven. She has a number of options for removing scents and odors.

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Question from Deanna

I’m in search of a safe at home enema kit for my family.

I have narrowed it down to silicone or stainles steel bucket kits.

I called and spoke with the owner of optimalhealthnetwork.com— she said that their SS is the 300 series and is “coated with chrome containing oxide so that it does not leach metals into the enema fluid”. I knew that if SS is scratched it can leach so I dug in again and found your post on SS that goes into the details of this.

My question is, if we were to use sterilized water with an added powdered probiotic & kept care to not scratch the bucket, would this SS be a safe non toxic option for my family? The only other additives I would use may be coffee, plain chamomile tea or 24 hr yogurt.

With these I wonder if I should worry about leaching, even if it is not scratched.

My first thought was to just get silicone but it is sometimes hard to clean – the stains should be fine but it can get linty.

Debra’s Answer

It sounds like the manufacturer has done everything possible to make the stainless steel bucket as safe as possible. I would say there would be minimum leaching. It sounds like you would prefer the stainless steel.

My rule of thumb is to always do the least toxic thing, but then I balance it out by the benefits also. There may be a very large health benefit to doing enemas, and a very small toxic exposure.

We live in a world where toxic chemicals are all around. We cannot achieve zero toxic exposure. But reducing our toxic exposure in our homes and the toxic load in our bodies can greatly improve our health.

I personally don’t know of a better option, but my readers might have some suggestions. Readers?

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Question from Mattress Mama

Dear Debra, I would like to replace several coil spring mattresses at once , so cost is a big issue.

I have been looking at White Lotus Home and am deciding between the Green Cotton Mattress wrapped in wool with a non organic fabric cover and the Organic Cotton Mattress wrapped in wool.

The Organic Cotton version is double the price of the Green version so I was going to go with Green.

However you said in another post … “There are few, if any, pesticide residues in non-organic cotton FABRIC. This has been laboratory tested. However, there are pesticide residues in non-organic cotton BATTING. The processing of the cotton into fabric removes most, if not all, of the pesticides. The problem with pesticides on cotton is that they do go into the environment, where they pollute the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil our food is grown in”

Isn’t cotton BATTING what makes up the core of the Green Cotton Mattress? What is a budget minded mom to do? Please advise. Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Yes, cotton batting does make up the core of the Green Cotton Mattress, but it is a better choice than a synthetic mattress that is made from toxic materials and fire retardants.

You could ask them to make a mattress with non organic fabric and organic fill. That would reduce the price and still no pesticides.

I’m going to say something that I say a lot but it pertains here. Remember we live in a toxic world. What we are trying to do is REDUCE our toxic exposures because we cannot eliminate them entirely. So if you can’t afford all organic, do what you can afford. It will make a difference.

Or see if you can reduce your expenses on other items so you can buy the organic mattress. Or figure out how to get some extra money.

I always keep in mind that whatever I spend on eliminating toxics now will be fewer medical bills in the future. When I compare the cost of an organic bed now against the financial and personal cost of cancer in the future, I do what I need to do to get the money together.

Over the holidays I found I needed some money to make up for the holiday slump in my business and I just wrote emails to everyone I know locally and asked if they needed any help for the holidays. And the result was that I made a new friend and am helping him start a new business, while at the same time learning new marketing skills that are helping me in my business.

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Question from Mickie

Hi, I am looking for a non toxic hair color to color grey hair, I was wondering if you have heard of Apivita Hair Color, or if you can suggest something else. Thanks, Mickie

Debra’s Answer

This product looks good to me. Let us know how you like it after you try it.

Other suggestions are on various blog posts and Debra’s List. Just type “hair color” into the site search box.

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Question from Mickie

Is Sobakawn Cloud or buckwheat pillows o.k. for severe mcs? Bad neck and head pain from accident and no drs etc can help me can not take meds.

Mickie

Debra’s Answer

As I’ve said before, it’s difficult to evaluate anything to be safe for every individual with MCS because each has their own unique set of sensitivities.

I can tell you there is nothing I am aware of about buckwheat hull pillows that are toxic.

The Sobakawn Cloud pillow is full of “air beads” that appear to be some type of plastic. They don’t say the type of plastic and have no telephone number on their website, so I would pass on this one.

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Question from Cats

Debra, Just found your site and love it. Learning so much it has got me thinking.

We have 2 indoor cats, 12 and 14 years old. Both have over active thyroid problems and take medication. My previous cat died of cancer.

Wondering, since you live a non-toxic life, do your animals fair better than the general population when it comes to health? I assume you keep them indoors?

Debra’s Answer

I currently don’t have any pets, but I have had cats in the past.

I had two cats who lived for well over ten years with no diseases. And they were outdoor cats, but I was living in a forest. Very healthy.

Of course, they were drinking filtered water and eating organic food. Real food, not cat food. But they were also living in a nontoxic enviornment.

I do think our modern lifestyle is affecting the health of our animal friends as well as our own human bodies.

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Question from Helen

Our teenaged son brought home a department store cologne. We went through the ingredient list on the Environmental Working Group website and found that most of the ingredients are a “moderate” hazard.” Is there a hip, manly, non-toxic scent out there that he might like?

Debra’s Answer

A hip, manly, non-toxic scent.

Hmmm. That’s not something I am looking for every day… Colognes are mostly alcohol with fragrance. Common colognes are made with alcohols and fragrances that are completely petrochemical and toxic to varying degrees.

The solution would be a natural alcohol (such as vodka) plus natural essential oils.

Try searching on organic cologne.

I found quite a few, but many had essential oils that might be problematic even if organic.

Here are a couple that sound nice to me.

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Are you eating organic but using an ordinary over-the-counter laxative?

If you are, then read this article about polyethylene glycol in super-laxative products. The FDA has collected more than 2000 “adverse events” from such products, ranging from forgetfulness to death.

http://drkaayladaniel.com/the-poop-on-miralax/

Now if you need a laxative, that’s a sign you need to change your diet. Eat more vegetables. Drink more water. Green smoothies are fabulous. Take probiotics to repopulate your gut and enzymes to help digestive processes. Get your gut going again. Get professional help if you need to.

Digestion is vitally important to your health, to release and absorb nutrients from food and to move toxic chemicals out of your body.

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Question from sttlove

I have city water, and I recently found out that it is treated with Chloramine. I haven’t had it tested yet, but I can tell just by the smell that it is probably a high content. My family is suffering from it and it has become undesirable to bathe or shower. So, I would like to get a whole house Chloramine filter system. Does anyone know of a reputable company that specializes in this? I live in Pennyslvania. I know that Chloramine is much more complicated to remove than Chlorine, so it is important that I have the correct filtration. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Yes, I do know of an excellent whole house chloramine filter. You are very wise to make sure you are getting the right one.

I’ve been recommending PureEffect Filters since I installed their undersink filter in my own home (read why I chose the PureEffect Ultra-UC filter to install in my own home…. They also have a whole house filter that removes these same pollutants (chloramines, fluoride, radiation, etc) from your entire house.

Go to PureEffect Filters then click on “Filter Units” in the menu. The whole house filter for city water is the last item on the page. And right at the moment they are on sale.

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Question from nicolette

Hi there. Are Debra and anyone else still recommending “ManPans” for cookware? I need a saucepan quickly. I burnt up my old Reverware pan, and I read reviews on amazon that the new Reverware is just not of good quality anymore. ManPans sound just what I’m looking for. Just so it is safe! Thank you all!

Debra’s Answer

I have a Man Pan skillet that I’ve been using for a couple of years now and it works very well. The only thing about it–and this is my personal preference, not something “wrong”–it the pan is very lightweight, and I prefer a thicker layer on the bottom. Otherwise I’m totally happy with it.

Readers? Any other comments on Man Pans?

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Question from Bed Question

Questioning my recent order of a new “big kid” mattress for my 3 year old son. He has no allergies, I am simply trying to get the toxins out of our house.

That said, I purchased a double sided Pure Echo Mattress from mygreenmattress.com.

I had one inch of Talalay latex added to each side. Now I am reading Talalay latex is not that safe and that Dunlop latex is a better product?

Quite honestly, I am finding it impossible to figure out who is telling the truth. Can you at least tell me if this mattress is better for my son (and our home) than purchasing one from a conventional mattress store?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know where you are reading about latex, but I will tell you what I know.

I recently have been researching latex and can’t go into the whole story here, but to answer your question about Talalay and Dunlop…

Here is a page from a manufacturer of Talalay latex that thoroughly explains both types: http://www.latexfoam.com/latex-material/how-latex-is-made

Talalay and Dunlop are two processing methods. But the materials used are the same. One is not more or less toxic than the other. The difference is in the quality. “Talalay latex is like a chocolate soufflé; although the process is long, your end product is a buoyant, airy, complex delight. Dunlop latex is more like a tray of brownies; tasty, but dense and flat in comparison.”

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Question from Angelique

Does anyone have experience with Bona or Safecoat wood floor finishes? Or any other finishes? And I mean PERSONAL experience, or the experience of another chemically-sensitive person. We don’t need stain, but if we decide to install 100% mesquite wood floors (nails only, no glue) we will need a sealer. For my husband’s office we’ll need an “ordinary” sealer, but my husband wonders if we want to put the wood in the kitchen too, instead of new tile (our tile is very chipped) so I think that will need a thicker, more waterproof sealer. The wood company likes Bona products. I have had good results with other Safecoat products.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any experience with these products?

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Question from Shelly

Hello Debra. I thought I read about a rebounder on your site but can’t find any links. Do you have an opinion about using rebounders (mini-trampolines)?

Thanks,

Shelly

Debra’s Answer

Yes. My opinion is they are great exercise. Especially to move the lymph system, which is vital for moving toxic chemicals out of your body. Unlike your blood, which moves by the action of the pumping of your heart, your lymph fluid moves only when you move your body. So daily exercise is extremely important.

The problem is that all the rebounders I’ve ever seen are made from some material that smells very strongly right out of the box. However, it does outgas fairly quickly. I have my rebounder in a corner of my living room and it doesn’t smell at all.

If you can rebound outdoors with fresh air, that would be all the better.

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Question from Kimberly

Do you know anything that helps if you have an “adverse reaction” to monosodium glutamate or it’s too numerous hidden names. I have also found it at every turn. Sometimes I feel like I am going to die…bad feeling! One time passed out fell on my face, busted my lips and my nose. Had a concussion. I am suppose to believe… FDA says it is safe.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know what can stop an MSG reaction. My advice would be to simply prepare all your own food from fresh ingredients. That’s what I do.

Readers, any experience with this?

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Question from kathy

I need to get area rug pads – I would like more than just the grip kind. A thicker, felt-like one is ideal. Do you know of any sources that are not toxic, don’t off-gas, etc.

Thanks,

Kathy

Debra’s Answer

You might like Earth Weave’s Enertia Carpet Padding

They also have an all natural rubber gripper pad.

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Question from Lisa

I’m hoping someone can help.

I’ve lived in a small cottage for three years and have had no health issues. I’m chemically sensitive, but this place has been perfect. And I’m in super health and very fit.

In December, I started having symptoms out of the blue while in the cottage (headache, lung pain, hoarseness, fatigue, dizziness, foggy head, dry cough, etc.) similar to those that I experience when exposed to chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene, etc. I felt so bad that I moved to friend’s house for a week and was totally fine again. The symptoms returned when I returned to the cottage. I left again for a weekend and was great again. All symptoms back when I returned.

I had PG&E test for CO and gas and they found nothing. I had the cottage tested for mold and it came back with an extremely low count (much higher outside) and the inspector said that it was very very low, that there’s more mold outside. I have no sinus issues or itchiness. There is no new furniture and nothing about the environment has changed. Nothing is new. I even asked the neighbors about pesticides and nothing.

I’m hoping someone can offer ideas about anything I might be missing here. Again, have been fine for three years. Am fine when out for a day. Someone mentioned florescent bulbs as a possible problem, but none are broken and never have been. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any ideas?

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Question from Annie

Do u think glow in the dark stickers are bad? I assume they have some sort of phosphor containing chemical on them? Bad to touch?

Debra’s Answer

All glow-in-the-dark products contain phosphors, a substance that radiates visible light after being energized.

Chemists have created thousands of chemical substances that have a phosphor effect. Phosphors have three factors:

The type of energy they require to be energized

The color of the visible light that they produce

The length of time that they glow after being energized (known as the persistence of the phosphor)

A glow-in-the-dark toy needs a phosphor that is energized by normal light and that has a very long persistence. Two phosphors that have these properties are Zinc Sulfide and Strontium Aluminate. Strontium Aluminate has a much longer persistence than Zinc Sulfide does. Whatever the phosphor, it is mixed into a plastic and molded to make something glow-in-the-dark.

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Question from EK

Hi Debra! I’m looking to buy a new a comforter and unfortunately i’m allergic to feathers and my husband doesn’t handle wool very welI. I came across a comforter which was made of recycled polyester and lyocell fibers and was hoping you would be able to explain what this is and if its a less toxic option than polyester. I’d also like to thank you for many years of guidance!

Debra’s Answer

Recycled polyester isn’t any less toxic than virgin polyester, it’s just recycled rather than going into a landfill.

Lyocell is a type of rayon. Rayon is made from regenerated cellulose fiber of various types. In the past, rayon was usually made from cotton fibers too short to spin into yarn. Lyocell is made from wood pulp. Bamboo fabrics are made by the same process, but will cellulose from bamboo.

There are other natural comforter fillings you might want to try, including silk, milkweed, cotton…there’s even a bamboo comforter with bamboo cover and fill. Google each of these for sources.

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Question from Sofas

Hi Debra, your website is great! So glad to have found it. I’m finding the organic toxin free furniture is so very unaffordable. Is there any website you have come across that doesn’t have flame retardants at least. Basically second best I guess. Ikea? Looking for a couch or two. From Canada too.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know of any readymade sofas that do not have fire retardants of some kind or another. They are required by law.

I suggest that you type “sofa” in my site search box and read all the other posts on this subject, if you haven’t already.

Readers? Any suggestions?

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Question from GREENDAD2B

Debra – you rock. Just interested as to why the Ikea Sniglar is okay in your book, given the fiberboard. Hoping you have a great explanation so I can buy it and be happy that it’s not only the offspring of the wealthy who get to breathe clean air. Thanks

Debra’s Answer

I saw this crib at IKEA. The frame is solid wood. The fiberboard is the platform on which the mattress sits. I don’t believe it is particleboard. There are many different types of “fiberboard.”

I don’t have a crib in front of me at the moment to look at it again. But even if it is particleboard, that platform could easily be replaced and the crib is very inexpensive.

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Question from June

Has anybody used Wet and Forget? It’s for removing stains and mold from outside patios. You just spray it on and leave it…the rain is supposed to wash it away….there are concerns about pets listed on the label…Is it even safe to breathe? Would appreciate any information anybody has…Thank you…June

Debra’s Answer

Here is the MSDS for Wet and Forget

It lists the health effects.

Readers, any experience with this product?

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Question from Melissa

I am trying to find out the safety of a product called Bio Oil. I want to use it on my dark under eye circles. I have heard such positive reviews but it contains mineral oil, so I’m leery. Any advice?

Debra’s Answer

The ingredients are: Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Triisononanoin, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Isopropyl Myristate, Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) (Lavender Oil), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil (Rosemary), Calendula (Calendula Officinalis) Flower Extract, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower), Glycine Soja (Soybean Oil), BHT, Bisabolol (L-Alpha), Parfum/Fragrance (Fragrance), Amyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Salicylate, Citronellol, Coumarin, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Hydroxyisohexl 3 Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Limonene, Linalool, Alpha Isomethyl Ionone, CI 26100.

I don’t like products like this, which contain some good healing things in a base of mineral oil made from petroleum and useless artificial fragrance.

The active ingredients are the botanicals. It would be better to get a similar product that is 100% natural, or even better, 100% organic.

There are many remedies for dark circles under the eyes and many causes. They can be a sign of a malfunctioning organ or a nutritional deficiency.

Better to find the cause and handle it than use a product such as this.

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Just want to pass along a very well researched article about why we should stick with our incandescent light bulbs.

“People are reporting migraines, rashes and epileptic seizures caused by the CFLs. Lessor concerns are general ill feelings, achy joints, anxiety and common headaches. I’ve had one report of school children gaining 20 IQ points when moved from a CFL environment to natural light augmented with incandescent light.”

CFL Fluorescent Light Bulbs: More Hype Than Value

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Question from Pam

Hi Debra, Do you know of any chemicals that on old furnace might emit, other than carbon monoxide? Our furnace is 23 years old and is giving me a headache when it runs, but it has been checked out and is in good working order. I’m stumped as to why this is happening. Also, I’m a little worried about getting a new furnace—odors, etc. Do people with MCS generally have any problems when getting a new furnace? Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Old furnaces can emit much more than carbon monoxide. The burning of any type of fuel produces a whole group of toxic chemicals known as “combustion by-products.”

These include benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, radon, PCBs, dioxins and many more. Different types of fuel produce different pollutants. To find out what might be produced by your furnace, type “combustion byproducts” and the type of fuel, such as “combustion byproducts coal.”

“Good working order” may still be emitting pollutants that can make you sick.

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Question from Annette Tweedel

Hi Debra, Is there anything toxic about Stackable Plastic Storage Drawers?

Debra’s Answer

You just need to check and see what type of plastic they are made from. Polyethylene and polypropylene are the least toxic plastics used to make this product.

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Question from Get Dr Oz to ban air-fresheners!

Wondering if we can’t get organized & contact Dr. Oz so he does a show on the toxicity of air-fresheners and perfumes and all-around phthalates-containing products?

There’s a lot of ignorance out there & the biggest scam is calling these air-pollutants “air-fresheners”.

Who’s with me and how can we do this!?

We need lots of emails from tons of IPs to make an impact here.

Perfumes need to be banned from the workplace, and chemicals such as air-fresheners from apt. buildings (bathrooms, gyms and other common areas & eventually from people’s apts. as they waft onto other apts.) so maybe we can get the ball rolling by spreading awareness to those clueless souls who wait hand & foot on the good Dr instead of doing their own research but do take what he says as gospel.

Dr Oz has been rehashing the same 2 topics ad-nauseatum: how to lose weight, how to get skinny and how to lose wrinkles, how to get young-looking like a broken record for years on end.

Debra’s Answer

OK. Here’s where you can make a suggestion for a show: http://www.doctoroz.com/contact

Fill out the form and in the Subject menu choose “I have an idea for a segment.”

I suggest you say whatever you want to say about fragrance and why Dr Oz should talk about the subject.

Then give them this link to Scent-free Victory! and tell them to read the letter from Dr. Anne Steinemann about the toxic chemicals found in scented products.

Tell them to have me as a guest on the show. Give them this URL about my book Toxic Free.

Pass this on to everyone you know. Post a link to this blog on your Facebook and Twitter pages and anyplace else. Now. Today. Let’s send them a lot of messages all at once and see if they pay attention.

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Question from audrey

My mattress, sheets, etc are all organic or green (dye free etc). I need to buy a plain lightweight quilt and the organic ones are so expensive. What do you think about just a regular one – that obviously is washed and aired out so it doesn’t smell (even the organic items smell in the beginning). I am leary because it will be on my bed, but the expense of the organic ones are a bit more than I can afford. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know the size of your bed or your “affordable” price range.

If you’re not going to go organic, I would choose something as plain and simple as possible, such as: coverlets from Garnet Hill.

Or this dream quilt also from Garnet Hill which is on sale right now.

Garnet Hill has been selling natural fiber bedding since before I started writing thirty years ago. Ask them about finishes.

Stay away from cheap quilts that may have polyester and formaldehyde.

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Question from Alex

Does anyone here shop ebay? Any tips on how to address sellers?

My very polite inquiries fetch replies that fall into 4 categories:

Very few are honest.

The others are either truthful about no chemical items, or truthful about their houses being smoker’s homes or chemicals-wafting homes

And the 4th category is quite colorful & leaves me puzzled: they either reply flippantly, are rude, make insensitive jokes or tell me that “everything has an odor” &, although they do not use any chemicals in their homes, they cannot guarantee where the (non-toxic, odor-free, natural) product has been!

It’s very frustrating, as an impulsive buyer (don’t judge please) to have to query them first; by the time they reply I’ve often changed my mind & these are things I need.

Debra’s Answer

I’m not sure what your question is.

It seems that all of the ebay sellers you have contacted are responding negatively, which to me indicates they are not the right sellers for you.

All the websites on Debra’s List sell the type of products you are looking for and will answer your questions, I’m sure. I’ve even marked some who are accustomed to the needs of those with MCS.

I think the problem is not how you are addressing them, but you are addressing people who may not even know what you are talking about.

That’s why I created Debra’s List. So you can find businesses that understand and offer nontoxic products.

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Question from Russ

I have a couple questions in terms of finding a healthy place to live for those of us with MCS.

In my case I’m looking at rentals.

Remodelling: Many rentals will have either a recently remodeled kitchen/bath, recently re-finished hardwood floors, or fresh paint. Most MCS info I’ve seen says these places need to be avoided. Do folks here agree with that or might some of these places still work. I’m especially interested in the case of refinished or new hardwood floors.

I know that gas forced air heat is a big no-no (except maybe if it is a high-efficiency sealed combustion furnace). But what about hot water radiant heat that is fueled by a gas furnace in the basement. Is this still a no-no due to combustion products rising up into the rest of the house?

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I wish I could give you a general answer, but these issues really need to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

A recently remodeled kitchen/bath is likely to have new particleboard cabinets that reek of formaldehyde. Usually, but not always.

Recently refinished hardwood floors might have very toxic oil-based finish or much less toxic water-based finish. How much the floors are outgassing depends on how recently they were finished. You may be able to use heat to speed up the outgassing.

Fresh paint also depends on the type of paint used. Oil-based paint is difficult to outgas, but a low- or no-VOC paint or even regular latex paint can be easily outgassed with heat.

With a gas heater in the basement, whether or not that is OK has to do with the amount of air that seeps up into the house from the basement. If it is well-sealed, it may not be a problem.

If you find a place you like, I can help you determine if it can be fixed to be less toxic with a paid phone consultation.

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Question from Bohdan Lychacz

Staples is a large chain in Canada selling business supplies.

Just recently they started piping in fragrance throughout the store. Here is the response to my letter of concern.

I want your readers to know that yesterday I sent my husband into Staples ahead of me into the store to check for the fragrance they had vented in. He gave me the all clear.

The sickening fragrance was no longer in the air.

I hope this is a permanent decision on their part.

I am heartened by their decision to suspend the air fragrance.

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Question from Juliee

Debra, I read some of your articles re: chlorine. I swim 3 X a week. Before going into the outdoor pool, I cover myself w/ Coconut oil. When I get out, I pour a bottle of H2o over me that has 1000 mg of Vit C dissolved in it. I then go into the sauna from 15-30 min. I really am trying to get rid of any chlorine that I have absorbed while swimming. Am I wasting my time doing this routine?

Debra’s Answer

We discussed this in 2007 at Q&A: How to minimize risk from swimming in chlorinated pool.

I just was searching about this and came across a useless article that gave ste-by-step instructions for removing chlorine from your body after swimming with soap and water.

Chlorine is immediately absorbed through your skin on contact, so there is no way to remove it after the fact, you need to apply a barrier, like you are doing with coconut oil. I don’t know how effective that is, but it would be better than nothing.

There is a field called “toxicokinetics” that is the description of what rate a chemical will enter the body and what happens to it once it is in the body. It’s very useful stuff to know. You can seach on “toxicokinetics” and the name of the chemical to get this information online. Unfortunately, it isn’t always available or complete.

I searched on “toxicokinetics chlorine” and found that there wasn’t anything on the effects of chlorine in your body when absorbed through the skin, only when inhaled. So I’ll tell you when it is inhaled, it basically is absorbed into the body through the airways. The distribution, metabolism, and excretion of chlorine is determined by how it reacts in one’s individual body.

The purpose of chlorine is to kill micro-organisms. It doesn’t care if those micro-organisms are in the pool or in your body, and it also doesn’t know which are harmful and which are beneficial. It just kills them all. So it’s best to keep chlorine out of your body as best you can. I imagine it would leave your body fairly quickly as it is a gas. It’s not something your body would store.

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Question from Susan

Hello Debra, Do you have any suggestions to find a mold-resistant shower curtain that is not vinyl? And if it has to be vinyl perhaps a less toxic version?

Thank you, Susan

Debra’s Answer

I know all about this, having been through this problem myself with cotton shower curtains molding.

I’m told hemp shower curtains do not mold.

You can get shower curtains made from nontoxic EVA plastic at IKEA stores (not online) very cheap (I think it’s something like $3) or online at Vita Future

Nylon shower curtains are also nontoxic and don’t mold.

But what I did was just install glass shower doors, which cost less than $100 at Home Depot and Lowe’s. Much nicer than a curtain and mold-free.

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Question from Rebecca

About safe (safer) hair coloring: I worked with a somewhat organic/safer hair colorist for the last several years who gave me blonde highlights (my hair is dark blonde naturally with some greying on top). She is no longer available….so on the search for a new person AND a safer hair product. I see there are now a number of hair-color products on WFoods shelves, etc, that claim to be less toxic (no ammonia, resorcinol, etc.) Can anyone recommend a hair coloring product, esp if you go “blonde highlights”, which has worked reasonably well for you? I’m also very scent-sensitive with MCS, so have to take great care. Thanks much!

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Your experience?

My suggestion would be to find the new hairdresser and discuss this with him or her, as they are responsible for the outcome. They also will want to work with professional products and not an off-the-shelf product designed for home use.

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Question from Christie Fairman

I never knew that even the picture frames in our homes have chemicals that can offgass. There is a new labeling system for “formaldyhyde compliant” with a phase number. I have looked everywhere for solid wood frames. But, mostly I kept finding the toxic picture frames. I am also trying to slowly replace items in my home.

Debra’s Answer

First I want to explain “formaldehyde compliant”.

The statement is “California 93120 compliant for formaldehyde” and it means that the amount of formaldehyde offgassing from the product at 73 degrees in a room that has one air exchange per hour will be at or below the California standard.

This standard was set up in California after a 2009 study showed that 98 percent of the homes tested exceeded the recommended formaldehyde limit established by the state, and the typical home exceeded the limit by four times.

But being formaldehyde compliant does not mean that the product is safe. This is based on meeting the standard when the temperature is 73 degrees and there is one air exchange per hour.

This means all the air in the room is replaced by new outside air every hour. Is that the case in your home? Keep in mind that when you are using your HVAC for heating or cooling, it probably is recycling the air to preserve the heat or coolness.

It also means that the air needs to be at 73 for compliance. The reate of offgassing doubles with every 10 degrees of temperature.

Wondering why we now have all these fragrances on products and in stores? It’s because scent makes shoppers buy more.

“It basically enhances the environment for a first great impression,” says Biondi, whose company serves everyone from Express clothing to Mandalay Bay Resorts. Retailers, hotels, and even car makers use scents, he says, to evoke certain moods that will make customers happier with the brand.

“It’s very subtle,” he says. “When it’s done best, it’s not overwhelming, just enough for someone to look around and say, ‘It really smells nice.'”

It’s well known in marketing circles: Scents can have a powerful effect on consumer behaviour. After sound, scent is the second most powerful sense, experts say, and the only one of our five that bypasses the rational part of our brain to tap directly into our emotions. By spraying the right molecules into the air — into their merchandise, or even onto their letterhead — companies can make customers feel relaxed, energized, safe, young or sexy.

Read more at ABC News: Smells Like Profit: Scents in Stores, on Products, Makes Shoppers Buy More

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Question from liza

Hi debra, i want to purchase a Kugelhopf Mold but they are either made from something covered with nonstick, or tinned steel or anodized 18 gauge aluminum. which is the safest choice? thanks so much

Debra’s Answer

How about none of the above?

One thing I have learned in the past thirty years of living toxic-free is that there are some things that are just not worth the toxic effect.

Not only do you have whatever might leach from the pan, there’s also refined flour and refined sugar, both of which are toxic foods.

I’ve learned to find new pleasures that are nontoxic and support good health, and leave the toxic treats behind.

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Question from Beth

I’ve been perusing your list for under counter water filtration systems. I see that Multipure is not on there, but it is the only company I’ve seen yet that makes stainless steel housings. Plastic housing on a water filtration system is counterintuitive to me. What can you tell me about the effectiveness of Multipure vs., the ones on your list, especially the top one that has the “accustomed to MCS” icon? Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

First in general I want to say that just because something isn’t on [Debra’s List] doesn’t mean it’s a bad product. I only have so many hours in the day and there are many products that qualify that aren’t on the list because 1) I don’t know about them or 2) I haven’t yet had time to add them or 3) I think other products are better and don’t want to make things so confusing you don’t know what to choose.

For many years I recommended MultiPure and still would recommend their filters if they fit your need.

Multipure filters are mainly carbon block filters that [reduce a long list of contaminants]= http://www.multipure.com/mpscience/contaminant-reduction-list/. The list includes both chlorine and chloramines, but it’s my understanding that you need a special kind of carbon to remove chloramines, so this doesn’t make sense to me. Also I don’t see a lab test that says how much of these contaminants are removed.

As for plastic vs stainless steel housing, in fact, both plastic and stainless steel can leach into water, but the contact time is so slight in a water filter that it’s unlikely that either is leaching much, if at all. What you need to look at is a lab test of the product water to see if substances that leach are in the product water.

I can’t compare this to all the other water filters on Debra’s List here in a blog post, but I will compare it to the top one on the list, the Pure Effect filters. These are very different. You can read my comments about them at why I chose the PureEffect Ultra-UC filter to install in my own home…

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Question from Bluebird

Do you have any idea how to remove tape residue which is hardened onto glass or plastic? The masking tape and other tape has been sitting for a few years and it seems welded to the plastic and glass. I tried alcohol but that is only partially effective. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Good question!

I actually had that problem once on a window and removed it by scraping it off with a razor blade

Not sure what to do with plastic.

There are various cleaners that will melt it, however the cleaner would need to be nontoxic.

Readers, any experience with this?

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Question from lindab

Hi Debra,

So glad to have found your website.

My husband has developed a multiple chemical sensitivity after I started making homemade laundry detergent using Fels Naptha soap. It took awhile to pin it down to that since his symptoms started a month after using this concoction.

I am heartsick that I brought this on him by trying to save money on something as simple as laundry detergent.

Thanks for all your helpful information. You will probably save me hundreds of hours searching the web for organic alternatives to everything I will need now. So hard to determine what is really organic and what is not.

Thanks, thanks, thanks!!!

Debra’s Answer

You’re welcome, you’re welcome, you’re welcome!!!

Here’s what I wrote about Fels Naptha: Fels Naptha Soap.

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Question from Hannah

Hi Debra, My question is about flame retardants. First of all, is drywall treated with flame retardants? I can’t find any info about that. Second, do you know of any information about whether flame retardants are able to be excreted from the body or do they build up. It would be helpful to know which chemicals we can detox and which ones we can’t so if you know of any databases with that info that would be great! Thanks very much!

Debra’s Answer

Drywall does NOT contain fire retardants. If it did, they would be listed on the MSDS. And it’s not. http://www.ncs-stl.com/msds/Drywall.pdf

Nor have I ever heard drywall associated with fire retardant exposure.

Whether flame retardants can be excreted from the body is a good question. Here’s a study that shows 92% of tris was excreted after 5 days. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6117442

The problem is that usually we are exposed to fire retardants day in and day out. So if you have say five hours of exposure sitting on a sofa watching tv and it takes five days for your body to excrete it, you’re putting it into your body faster than your body can remove it. And it will build up in your body. That’s the problem today. We are exposed to toxics faster than we can excrete them.

For more information on how you can help your body detox, see my book Toxic Free and my Toxic Free Nutrition website.

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Question from Steve

I am specifying a wire fence to be used in a kennel. I have learned that PVC coating on fencing is toxic. But I am considering polyester powdercoat. Would it be toxic to dogs if they chew on it?

Debra’s Answer

Polyester powdercoat coating is less toxic than PVC coating. And this applies to any wire product, like shelves, baskets, and dish drying racks.

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Question from JC Gandhi

We are looking to replace our hardwood floor as we have had 2 leaks in the past year and it has buckeled in several places. We are considering both laminate and engineered hardwood but would like to know if there are any other options. We saw one that is ‘antibacterial porcelain stoneware’ which seems to be green but then we had concerns about triclosan and antibacterial products in general. We had bamboo floors in our old place which I loved but they dented so easily. We have 2 young children and a ton of guests that come through this area – it’s the main area in the house (kitchen plus living). Any suggestions would be greatly apprec iated.

Debra’s Answer

I’ve written a lot about hardwood floors elsewhere on this blog (in particular see Types of Wood Flooring).

I don’t recommend laminate or engineered hardwood.

The other option is solid wood hardwood flooring. And I recommend prefinished so you don’t have to deal with toxic finishes.

Solid wood flooring is not difficult to find. It is more expensive. You can find it at Lowe’s and Home Depot, but also try Lumber Liquidators, as it costs less there.

Just ask for “solid wood hardwood flooring.”

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Question from audrey

I cannot go in to shoe stores so I only have two pairs of shoes because I find it very hard to order shoes over the internet/catalog due to sizing and comfort issues. Over the weekend I ordered a pair of shoes from QVC. I spoke to a friend the next day who said when I told her I order Clark’s, that they are treated with antimicrobials. I called Customer Service but they did not have any info about this. The next day I cancelled the order. Do you know if Clarks (and other shoes) are treated with antimicrobials? If I wore socks would this prevent my body from absorbing the antimicrobials? Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have a list of shoes treated with antimicrobials or not treated. However, I would assume that most standard shoes are treated with them nowadays, and that would include Clark’s.

It’s good you called Customer Service about this, and they should be able to tell you yes or no. That they had no information about this is not very helpful, but doesn’t indicate whether their shoes have antimicrobials or not—they just don’t know. In a case like this, ask to speak to the Supervisor. I’ve gotten a lot of information about products by just going up and up within the company until I reached someone with answers.

A better choice would be to consider shoes made by more natural companies. See Nontoxic Shoes and Are there any nontoxic shoes?.

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Question from DonnaH

Hi Debra, My husband replaced two 6×6 tiles in our hall bath shower using TEC Invision floor and wall adhesive. Later, I looked on your site and saw where you say never use mastic in a shower because of its toxicity. I can’t smell any fumes, but am very concerned because this bathroom is next to my son’s bedroom. Should we rip it out or leave it alone, as it’s only two tiles? Will ripping it out generate toxic dust? In the meanwhile, no one is allowed to use this shower. Thank you so much for all that you do!

Debra’s Answer

Part of evaluating the toxic effect of something is how much of the toxic material is present. There’s a big difference in the concentration of emissions from laying two tiles vs using mastic for the entire shower.

If you don’t smell any fumes, it’s probably fine. Ripping it out will not generate toxic dust, but you will then need to clean up the mastic, which would be a toxic experience.

I would probably just leave it. The tile and grout are blocking the fumes.

My warning about mastic really applies to installing an entire shower or floor with it. A lot of toxic fumes in the installation and someone with severe MCS would still be able to smell it. No reason to use it because thinset mortar works just fine.

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Question from sandra vb

Hello!! Thank you for this opportunity. I have a dinnerware christmas set made in Romania “Arpo”, the dishes are so beautiful,colorful, when a see in the store I feel in love rigth away. But now I don’t know if they are diswhasher safe or toxic. Can you please let me know as much you can, and I like to know how much is worth. The set is 8 cups, 8 small plates, 8 medium plates, 8 plates for soup and 8 plates flat. Thank you very much for your time and you help.

Debra’s Answer

I have no way of knowing how toxic or nontoxic this dinnerware may be because I don’t have it here to test.

But I can tell you that brightly colored ceramics from foreign countries are exactly the type of dinnerware that might have lead in the paint or glaze and should be tested. You can get 3M LeadCheck Swabs at amazon.com if you don’t find them in a local hardware or home improvement store.

If the LeadCheck swabs test positive, there’s lead. If negative, they are lead-free.

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Question from ENrico

Hey Debra, I purchased the Sultan heggedal mattress from Ikea. I wanted to know your opinion if it is a good opinion. Does it off gas VOC? Thank you

Debra’s Answer

Here is the Product Description from Ikea:

Product description

This isn’t 100% natural, but I don’t see any horribly toxic components I would be concerned about. Looks like they are using a wool layer to meet the fire retardant standards, but it would be worth double checking with them about this.

Synthetic latex and polyester are made from petrochemicals but they are present in small amounts.

Lyocell is a regenerated cellulose fiber made from bleached wood pulp.

PLA is a polyester derived from renewable resources, including corn starch, tapioca starch or sugarcane (in the rest of the world).

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Question from Karen B

I have finally found an affordable apt I would like to rent- currently I live in a VERY toxic place. But the new apt had recent work done to it including new vinyl floors (in kit and bath only, hardwood elsewhere). Can you tell me how bad this might be: Daejin America, Decoria vinyl Travertine, DF-502. I read that these floors have a double uv cured coat of polyurethane and microceramic coating. I just need to make a decision on this by Dec 24. Any input appreciated! The place has about 10 cross ventilating windows compared to the only 2 that I now have where I live!

Debra’s Answer

It’s hard to say how bad those vinyl floors might be. Usually I would say no…vinyl floors outgas a lot. But these have a cured polyurethane and microceramic coating which may encapsulate some of the outgassing.

Use your best judgement. Even with these floors, it sounds like this apartment is much less toxic than the existing one, and you could always add more layers of finish to the floor if outgassing is a problem. Or cover them with foil to block fumes and lay something else on top to walk on.

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Question from Bunkie

Does anyone have any info on the Honeywell Hepa Clear Germ Reducing Airpurifier with Ultraviolet? I am trying to replace all my Hunter purifiers because all the new filters are treated with microban. The Honeywell is expensive and I am not sure if it i s worth the investment. If not this one I will have to try the Healthmate. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Searching for a page with technical specs for this product, I came across this product at Wal-Mart which gave me the answer to just the question I was concerned about.

“The purifier itself has an Offensive odor. The purified air coming from it smells like cheap plastic. The charcoal filter did not change this odor. In fact nothing changed the odor of the purified air…Bottom line though, the one thing that is propelling me to return this item is its smell. So if you want clean air that smells clean this is not the unit for you.”

Enough said.

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Question from E.K

Hi Debra! I have been a big fan of your site, thank you so much for all your hard work! I was wondering if you had any information on Thermoplastic Rubber being used on slippers. I’m thinking of purchasing a pair but am finding anything solid online about this material. Thank you so much for your time!

Debra’s Answer

The term thermoplastic means that the material become pliable or moldable above a specific temperature and returns to a solid state when it cools. A stick of butter, for example, or an ice cube, is solid when cold and melts above a certain temperature. It can then be poured into a mold and formed into a new shape, and hold the shape when cooled, as long as it is not heated above the temperature than makes it melt.

The opposite of thermoplastic is thermoset, which means that the material will hold the shape regardless of the temperature. Plastic dice is an example of a thermoset.

Rubber is rubber, which can be made from the sap of the rubber tree, or from petroleum. Usually it is made from petroleum unless otherwise specified.

Thermoplastic rubber is more commonly called thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). This is a class of materials that have properties of both rubbers and thermoplastics.

The MSDS for one brand of thermoplastic rubber does not indicate any health problems from handling pellets of this material. It does warn of toxic fumes from melting down the pellets to put into molds to make various products. But in the formed state there is no warning.

Question from Gustavo

Hi Debra!

I read your “Guide to Creating a Green Bathroom” and I see that you put on your bathroom floor one-inch white hexagonal tiles. I’ve always wanted to have small white tiles on my bathroom floor, but always gave up due to the idea of having to clean all of the grout that most certainly would turn brown/black – and with these small tiles you get a lot of grout!!

I see that you used AFM grout sealer, which is nontoxic, but does it really keep the grout as white as it was on installation day? How long have you remodeled your bathroom, is the grout still white and clean? Have you reapplied the sealer so far? Many Thanks!! 🙂

Debra’s Answer

I remodeled my bathroom in 2006, so it’s been a little more than six years. Is the grout as white as it was on installation day? Well, yes and no. It depends on how much traffic on the particular area. And it will depend on how often you clean it and how you clean it.

I haven’t reapplied the sealer.

I would say six years later it’s still protecting the grout. When I clean the floor, dirt comes up easily, it’s not embedded in the grout.

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And “Tris, a suspected human carcinogen that was banned for use in baby pajamas in the 1970s, was the most prevalent compound in thecouches; it was found in 41 percent….Tris was found in 24 percent of sofas purchased before 2005. But in couches bought after that, it was found in 52 percent, showing that it has become increasingly popular since PentaBDE was phased out.”

If you are in the market for a couch…beware! See safe couches at Debra’s List: Furniture

Read more…

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A new nationwide survey of 2,600 obstetricians and gynecologists in the United States found that most do not warn their pregnant patients about chemicals in food, consumer products or the environment that could endanger their fetuses.

“Virtually all pregnant women have chemicals in their bodies that might harm fetal development.”

Monitoring of pregnant women found about 100 different chemicals, with 43 of them in all women tested. Lead, mercury, toluene, perchlorate, bisphenol A, flame retardants, perfluorinated compounds, organochlorine pesticides and phthalates are among the chemicals, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s nationwide testing program.

“Studies suggest that for many these compounds, low-level exposures in the womb seem to disrupt development of the brain or reproductive systems. Others may raise the risk of birth defects, or lead to cancer, immune problems, asthma, fertility problems or other disorders later in life.

“Yet that information is not reaching most women who are pregnant or may become pregnant.”

Read more…

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A study published in the December issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that high levels of dichlorophenols are present in people with food allergies.

Dichlorophenols are a chemicals by-product of chlorine. The most common exposure is from drinking or bathing in tap water, but it’s also found in swimming pools, hot tubs, and any product that contains triclosan (used in antibacterial soaps and bodycare products and in products containing antimicrobials, such as kitchen towels, adding machines and other household items.

Some things to do to reduce your exposure to chlorine:

* get a water filter that removes chlorine from your drinking water and bathing water (an undersink or countertop filter plus a shower filter, or a whole house filter) Debra’s List: Water Filters

* avoid antibacterial soaps and other bodycare products

* avoid antibacterial products

Read more…

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Question from MA

I recently purchased a Croscil Garden Mist Comforter. I have it 2 weeks and it still smells like petroleum. I have left the window open and run a fan and nothing helps. Can anyone tell me how to get rid of this terrible odor. It is giving us headaches and sore throats. I would like to keep it but I am thinking about returning it to the store. Help!

Debra’s Answer

I would return this item. I looked online and found the top is 100% polyester, the bottom is 65% polyester and 35% cotton, and the fill is unspecified, so I’m willing to bet it’s polyester too. Polyester fabrics typically have a formaldehyde-based finish that cannot be removed. That’s probably what you are smelling.

Back to the store.

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Question from Carrie

Hi Debra, We are anticipating the arrival of our third child in a few weeks and of course, I am in nesting mode and evaluating/re-evaluating all our choices for this baby. We have a co-sleeper made by Arms Reach that we LOVE for the capacity to have the baby basinett attached to the bed. However ours is now about 8 yrs old (we bought it for our first child) and I have been wondering if the concerns of toxic molds off gassing are relevant to this product.

The mattress is made of polyurethane foam and the cover is polyester (when we bought it I hadnt yet found you/your site). Do I need to worry about these things off gassing and creating the same SIDS risks as in the older mattresses? I can buy a new, organic mattress from the company – made of latex and wool and covered in cotton, but while my children have yet to be allergic to latex, I am so I hesitate to do that.

Debra’s Answer

Older mattresses outgas less than newer mattresses because they are more outgassed, depending on age.

I’m not concerned about toxic MOLDS outgassing, unless the mattress has been stored in a damp place.

I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t encase it if you want to.

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Question from audrey

I pay for a service to repair things in my condo like the toilet, appliances etc. Once a year they will come and check the air conditioner, drain the line, add freon (which will not be available anymore by 2015 for your info).

They usually spray a fragrance on the coils which I will not do (have mcs). I have had the coils cleaned by a company and spoke to them but they have no idea what can be sprayed on the coils that is fragrance free and non toxic.

Does anyone know of any product that is safe to spray on the ac coils? Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know, but is it really necessary?

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Question from Barb P

I had new windshields installed in both my cars by two different companies. Unfortunately, one car has a terrible odor even months later after being aired out in the sun and with an ozinator. It’s a different brand from the one that doesn’t smell. One mechanic said it was the new seal, but I have no way to prove it. The windshield installer says it’s not his seal or adhesive. Any ideas? I’t hard to smell a seal, but when I put my nose up to it, I do smell the rubber smell, but the installer says he doesn’t.

Debra’s Answer

I think it is the seal.

Ask the installer for the brands of all materials used and look at the MSDS for each. Just type “Name of Product MSDS” for each product and you should be able to find them.

The MSDS will give you the FACTS on the toxic ingredients, not your installer’s opinion.

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Question from Richard

Hi Debra, for a long while I’ve been confused about whether imported organic clothing and textiles are sprayed with pesticides before entry into the country. I try to order USA Made organic made products whenever I can but this isn’t easy. Recently I ordered a color grown HABIDECOR rug made in Portugal. It seems fine. However I don’t want to be unwittingly purchasing items that are being sprayed with something so they can be imported into the country. I’ve tried getting an answer for this online without success. Are only raw imported textiles sprayed or finished goods as well?

Thank you for your time Debra. Love your site!

Debra’s Answer

Here’s a link to a forum for architects where they are discussing toxic chemicals in shipping containers because there is a lot of interest now in using shipping containers to make housing: Shipping container floors NOT sustainable AND toxic!

So these are the shipping containers things are shipped in from China and other countries.

Pesticides may or may not be sprayed on the cargo itself. But you have no way of knowing.

Another reason to buy Made in the USA!

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Question from Glo

I have severe MCS and have had difficulty finding a space heater that I can tolerate. I wonder if you know anything about a Optimus H-4110 9-Inch Dish Heater. Would like to know what your thoughts are on this heater. Thanks

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any personal experience with it. But it looks like it has a minimum of plastic parts.

Anyone have any experience with this heater?

Read past posts about space heaters at Q&A: Portable Heaters with Metal Housings

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Question from Marie

Debra, I am researching safe, non-toxic beds to purchase for my two small children. I need a crib and a toddler bed. I was considering the “MINNEN” bed from Ikea for the toddler bed. The product description states: “Steel, Pigmented epoxy/polyester powder coating. Slatted bed base: Solid wood, 100 % polyester.” Does this sound safe?

With regard to the crib, I was considering the ” Babi Italia Mayfair Curved Convertible Crib – Oyster Shell or the “DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Crib”. Both of these cribs are sold at Babies R US. Both of these companies emphasize having lead-free paint, being made from renewal resources, and being safer than other manufacturers (reference this link: ). However, I have no way of knowing for certain whether or not these cribs are made from solid wood. I tend to doubt they are, but I cannot find any information to help me determine this.

What do you think about these products and do you have any suggestions of other cribs or toddler beds?

Debra’s Answer

I looked at the Minnen bed and yes, it looks fine to me. You probably don’t want to use that mattress, but the frame is fine.

I also like the Sniglar crib at IKEA. Again, I wouldn’t use their mattress.

Choose a mattress from Debra’s List: Cribs, Mattresses and Bedding https://www.debralynndadd.com/debraslist/cribs-mattresses-and-bedding

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I highly recommend reading this article from last week’s Scientific American.

It’s an interview with Linda Birnbaum, the toxicologist who leads the National Institute of Environmental Health Services (NIEHS) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP).

She makes some interesting statements.

How much of human disease is due to environmental exposures?
The estimates vary, and it depends on how you define environment. People often say it’s about 30 percent. I think that’s defining environment fairly narrowly, considering only environmental chemical exposures, but your environment includes the food you eat, the drugs you take, the psychosocial stress you’re exposed to and so forth. After all, what’s the difference between a drug and an environmental chemical? One you intentionally take and the other one you don’t. Considering all that, I would say then the environment is much more than 30 percent.

Why has it been so difficult to link environmental exposures to specific health consequences?
Nobody is exposed to one chemical at a time, right? I mean we live in a soup of chemicals and we live in a soup of exposures. Here, I’m having a lemonade. Well, it’s not only lemon in here. I’m sure there’s some sugar. There might be a preservative or something. I don’t know what’s in this. So think of all those things interacting, but when we test chemicals in the lab we tend to test them one at a time.

I guess we don’t consider these other types of exposures.
Right. A high-fat diet, for example, can completely change the way your body handles chemicals. Exposure to a certain chemical may lower your ability to respond to an infection. At EPA we did a lot of studies exposing rats and mice to air pollutants and then to bacterial infections or influenza infections. Those who were exposed to pollution were more likely to die, whereas those in clean air recovered.

PCBs are considered likely carcinogens, but they are also endocrine disruptors, like bisphenol A or dioxin, which is something we’ve heard a lot about in the media lately. What is your definition of an endocrine disruptor?
An endocrine disruptor is anything that affects the synthesis of a hormone, the breakdown of a hormone or how the hormone functions. We used to think it had to bind with a hormone receptor but endocrine disruptors can perturb hormone action at other stages in the process.

Why are they such a big deal?
They’re all around us, and I think they can affect us at very low levels. Our hormones control our basic homeostasis, our basic physiology. If you alter your hormone levels, you’re not going to behave the same way physiologically, and that includes mentally and everything else. I think that there’s growing evidence that some of the chemicals to which we are exposed are doing that to the population right now.

How has spending 33 years studying toxic chemicals affected your outlook on the environment?
We do know that there are many chronic health conditions, non-communicable health conditions, which have increased too rapidly in the last 20 to 40 years. These are things like autism, ADHD and, of course, obesity and diabetes. We have identified chemicals clearly at play in the obesity epidemic. I am not in any way saying to people you can stop exercising and you don’t have to watch what you eat, but the question I have is: Are we setting people up to fail because they’re exposed to something that alters their ability to metabolize fats or sugars?

Source: Scientific American: Chemical “soup” Clouds Connection ebtween Toxins and Poor Health

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I love this story, sent to me by a reader.

Some residents of San Francisco (where I used to live) were having problems with their wi-fi. It turned out that the interiors of their Victorian and Edwardian-era houses were lined with chicken wire as a base to hold the plaster on the walls.

Want to block wireless in your home? Perhaps chicken wire will do the trick.

Source : Wall Street Journal: Culprit in Wi-Fi Failures: Chicken Wire

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Press Release – Building Research and Information [Volume 40, Issue 6] United Kingdom

Researchers in the United States are calling for a change to the US building codes, following a study showing that the mandatory flame retardants routinely added to foam insulation are not only harmful to human health and the environment, but also make no difference to the prevention of fire in buildings where a fire-safe thermal barrier already exists. Such a change would bring the US building codes in line with regulations in Sweden and Norway.

The research team, which is drawn from US-based centres of excellence including the University of California and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, conducted a thorough review of fire safety literature since the mid-1970s and conclude that the addition of halogenated organic compounds to plastic insulation materials such as polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and polyurethane is costly, ineffective and environmentally damaging. Their conclusions are published in the latest issue of the journal Building Research and Information.

Led by internationally renowned fire expert Dr Vytenis Babrauskas of Fire Science & Technology Inc., the research team investigated the impact of the “Steiner Tunnel test”, which is used to test the propagation of fire over the surface of all sorts of building materials in the early stages of fire (before flashover point is reached). Their paper suggests that changing the US building codes to exempt foam plastic insulation materials from the test would avoid the use of thousands of tonnes of flame retardants that are known or suspected to be persistent organic pollutants. They conclude:

“Such a change would … decrease the cost of foam plastic insulation and encourage the use of insulation materials for increasing building energy efficiency and mitigating climate change. The potential for health and ecological harm from the use of flame retardant chemicals would be reduced and the fire safety of buildings would be maintained.”

Their article begins with a review of the development of the US building codes in relation to fire safety, and foam insulation in particular, and explains that foam plastics used for insulation have required a thermal barrier (usually 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) thick gypsum wallboard) since 1976. In addition, chemicals such as hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and Tris (1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP) are routinely added in order to meet the requirements of the Steiner Tunnel test. The building codes have never stipulated that chemicals be added to foam plastic insulation, however doing so is the most common way to meet the Steiner test. These additives are semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) which do not bind to the insulation material and are known to be released into the environment throughout the life cycle of insulation. The chemicals can persist and accumulate, and have been implicated in thyroid hormone disruption and nervous system development problems and are potentially carcinogenic.

The experts suggest that exempting foam plastic insulation materials from the Steiner Tunnel test would mean there was no longer a need to add these flame retardants.

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Question from Mandy

Hi there, I’m having a lot of difficulty finding some answers to my questions about wool. I’m really hoping that you (or your readers) can help me to find some answers to my questions concerning wool and yarn that is meant to be used for children’s and babies clothing, toys and craft activities.

The more I look into this the more confused I become!

When looking at organic wool yarns, would yarn dyed using “natural substances and dyed without the use of acid based chemicals” be preferable to “low impact acid dyes”?

I’ve found two companies in the U.S. that offer organic yarn but are dyed using different methods, both seem to have great products.

What poses more danger to the health of a child (particularly toddlers who put everything in their mouths), the wool or the chemicals used to dye it?

Would it be better to focus on organic wool or standard wool made with safer dyes?

Debra’s Answer

With regard to dyes, “natural substances without the use of acid based chemicals” would be preferable to “low impact acid dyes.” Here’s why. Natural substances come from living things–plants, animals and minerals–whereas low impact dyes are made from petrochemicals. Natural dyes are just more biocompatible, particularly for a baby. They are the real thing.

The Swans Island baby blankets look totally safe to me as well as beautiful, and they are using local wool. O-wool would be second choice because of use of imported wool and petrochemical dyes (though they get points for using low impact dyes).

Would it be better to focus on organic wool or safer dyes? I think they are about equal in importance. Best would be organic wool with natural dyes.

With regard to wool for craft activities, you can get undyed organic wool from Shepherd’s Dream.

Actually just received a newsletter from them announcing their crafting scraps on the very day your question came in!

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Question from priya

Hi! I was trying to find a table cloth protector which is free of toxin.Any idea where I will be able to find it? Thanks

Debra’s Answer

Most table cloth protectors are made of soft vinyl, like a shower curtain.

I can’t imagine how it would be possible to make a clear table cloth protector without a toxic plastic.

There are other less toxic plastics that could be used, polyethylene is used to make plastic bags, but I don’t know if there is a clear polyethylene thick enough for a table cloth cover.

The only solution I can think of is to get a piece of glass cut to the size of the table and use that over the tablecloth, or use tablecloths you can toss in the washer, like I do.

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Question from priya

I am trying to find a toxic free reed diffuser. Any recommendations on that? Thanks

Debra’s Answer

When I first read your question, I thought, well wouldn’t all reed diffusers be toxic? But then I did some research and have an answer for you.

First, for those of you who don’t know what a reed diffuser is, it’s a method for delivering fragrance into the air. Most fragrances sold for reed diffusers are toxic, just like any other synthetic fragrance.

However, apparently you can make your own fragrance oil to use in reed diffusers from natural essential oils. Amie’s Aromatherapy Encyclopedia: See How to Make Essential Oil Reed Diffusers.

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Question from adrian

Hi, Two questions. I was wondering if anyone knows of any low sulfate or no sulfate shampoos that have clean ingredients? I am using WEN Lavender cleansing conditioner, the ingredients look somewhat OK. Does anyone know about WEN ingredients?

THANK YOU!!

Debra’s Answer

I know Wen contains synthetic fragrance, which is enough reason for me to not use them.

There’s actually a whole website dedicated to locating sulfate-free products at www.slsfree.com. You would have to check all the other ingredients to see that they do not contain synthetic fragrance and any other other ingredients you want to avoid.

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Question from LT

Have you heard of Swiss Diamond Cookware? And I was wondering if you consider this safe cookware? Thanks

Debra’s Answer

Swiss Diamond Cookware has a non-stick finish made from PTFE that is manufactured without any PFOA. This, according to their website is reinforced with diamond chips, which are naturally non-stick, thus using less PTFE.

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene. This is a plastic.

I’ve seen other cookware stating that PTFE without PFOA is “safe,” however, I can’t recommended any plastic heated to high temperatures coming in contact with food.

The only non-stick pans I recommend are those with ceramic coatings, such as Xtrema, which is ceramic through and through, and Cuisinart’s Green Gourmet line.

The only non-stick pans I recommend are those with ceramic coatings, such as Xtrema, which is ceramic through and through, and Cuisinart’s Green Gourmet line.

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Question from MCS

We recently discovered we have roof rats in our yard. A pest control service installed bait traps in our 6 citrus trees, utilizing bromethalin and brodifacoum. I am highly sensitive to pesticides and suffer numerous neurological symptoms after exposure. If I do not get close to the bait stations, will these likely cause a problem? Do you know of a safe and effective way to deal with this problem? I don’t want to cause environmental harm, but I was so stunned to find out we had this problem that I jumped into this type of treatment immediately. Thanks for all the help you provide on your website!

Debra’s Answer

Here’s a very thorough publication about roof rats and how to control them using habitat modification and trapping: The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Roof Rat Control around Home and Other Structures.

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Question from Stacey

Since we are expecting a third child, my husband and I purchased a new Toyota Sienna minivan. I preferred to buy a model that was a year old, but was not able to do so. We were stuck buying a brand new vehicle if we wanted that particular minivan. I at least chose the beige leather instead of cloth for the seating. I did not check out this vehicle on Healthystuff.org before purchasing, and am now worried that my children and I (especially being pregnant) will be exposed to a lot of toxic chemicals in the new car. Do you have any suggestions/recommendations to make it any better? I am tempted to cancel the order since we have not received the car yet…but it is a great vehicle for us and for our needs. The minivan does have a lot of windows, but would a moonroof be a good feature to have? I wasn’t sure if this would make a difference, plus it was an extra, significant cost. I feel I should have done more research, but time is something I don’t have much of… Thanks so much, Debra, for all of your great info

Debra’s Answer

The thing about life is that we are constantly having to make decisions about risk–the benefits we receive from doing something versus the potential of harm.

I realized this a couple of years ago when I was speaking an a conference for insurance agents. Want to present my subject in terms they would relate to, I started reading about insurance and learned about risk management. It so aligns with making decisions about toxics that I included a whole Appendix about Risk Management in my book Toxic Free.

The whole field of risk management is about taking action to minimize loss.

A hazard is something that has the poetntial to cause harm or loss. If you know something is a hazard, and know the likely loss that would result from doing it, then you can do something to eliminate or lessen the loss. There is a standard protocol for risk management that I outline in my book.

You need to assess the risk and then decide if you are willing to subject yourself and your children to the risk in order to have the benefits of this car.

Now without going into all the details of all the possible toxic chemicals that are in car interiors, I will tell you that my personal risk assessment is that I wouldn’t do it. It just wouldn’t be worth it to me to have that level of toxic exposure, especially while you are pregnant, and especially with a newborn. The risk of long term health damage is just too great.

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Question from camster

what low voc basement floor paint would you recommend? Could you help it outgas by heating the room up high?

Debra’s Answer

Both Aquapoxy and AFM Safecoat have no-VOC paints designed specifically for application to cement floors.

And remember, cement makes a great nontoxic floor, even in other rooms of the house. If you have a cement slab, it’s less expensive to simply paint it than lay another flooring on top. I’ve seen some beautiful cement floors painted with wonderful textures and patterns.

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Question from Heavens123

I am interested in purchasing a bathroom stool from squattypotty.com

I don’t like the plasticone and the bamboo is made by a Chinese company and I am unable to track down the composition. That leaves the mdf version, which is painted mdf.

They purchase the mdf from a company called Plum Creek and when they called the distributor to ask about the mdf they were told it is low emision and CARB (California Air Resource Board) approved. A call to Plum Creek revealed that their mdf is Phase II compliant and has been for years.

While they do make a no-added formaldehyde mdf, I’m going to assume it’s the regular one being used. Is this a reasonable product to consider purchasing as the only mdf item in my home?

It’s a small stool, not a bigger piece of furniture and I see no comparable product of other materials. How stringent is CARB Phase II? If I bought it should I AFM Safeseal it? Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Interesting product. At first I thought “There are a lot of wood bathroom stools available,” and then I clicked through and saw the unique design and healthful purpose.

OK, so, as much as I don’t recommend mdf, sometimes we need to weigh the pros vs the cons and see which is greater.

I would say in this case you would probably get a greater health benefit from using the stool than harm from the mdf exposure. Use your own judgement as to whether or not you need to apply Safeseal.

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[this is a press release reprinted with permission]

The November/December 2012 issue of E – The Environmental Magazine (now posted at: www.emagazine.com) features a package of articles devoted to the increasing presence of nanoparticles in our food supply.

On the surface, nanoparticles seem to offer many potential benefits: By adding them to foods and food packaging, they can help deliver nutrients, act as thickening agents, enhance taste or flavor or ensure longer freshness of food. But these tiny microscopic versions of silver, zinc, titanium dioxide and other metals and nutrients, largely because of their microscopic size, may cause adverse health impacts.

The problem is that scientists are still determining the health and environmental impacts of these tiny particles, even as industry is forging ahead. Each of these nanoparticles has a distinct way of reacting with the human body, and there is little research to assure us that ingesting these microscopic materials is safe. Even more alarming, there is no information readily available to consumers alerting them as to which products contain nanoparticles, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not keep records on the matter.

E Magazine asked a spokesperson at the FDA: “Where are the nanomaterials most often found within food products?” He answered: “FDA does not maintain a list of food products that contain nanomaterials, so we cannot reliably answer this question.”

Foods Containing Nano

Despite lack of a comprehensive listing, we know that nanoparticles are in the food supply, and have been for at least a decade. Recent research found that foods with caramelized sugar, including bread and corn flakes, contain carbon nanoparticles. Many nutritional supplements — or “nanoceuticals” — come equipped with copper, silver or iron nanoparticles. Nanoparticles can be used to purify water, as anti-caking and gelatin-forming agents, and in packaging to protect against UV light, prevent the growth of microbes or detect contamination. And titanium dioxide lends white pigment to most toothpastes and many processed foods, including Mentos, Trident and Dentyne gum, M&Ms, Betty Crocker Whipped Cream Frosting, Jello Banana Cream Pudding, Vanilla Milkshake Pop Tarts and Nestle Original Coffee Creamer.

Nanoparticles also enter the food supply unintentionally. Biosolids from wastewater treatment plants that are used as fertilizer contains zinc oxide nanoparticles from sunscreens and other products. Research has found that soybeans grown with this fertilizer take up the nanoparticles in their leaves, stems and beans.

And nanoparticles in food wrappings, used to protect the food from contamination, could be contaminating our bodies instead. “We know that there’s nanosilver in food wrapping and food packaging,” says Jennifer Sass, a senior scientist with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). “That nanosilver releases ions, so those ions could be getting into the food. The ions are toxic, they are the antimicrobial part of the silver.”

Because companies are not required to label their products as containing nanomaterials, and only do so voluntarily, it is primarily the companies that make supplements, who wish to tout their copper, silver or iron nanoparticles, that give consumers a clue as to what’s inside.

What’s the Worry?

Nanoparticles, whether in consumer goods or in the food supply, are being treated as though they are equivalent to their larger counterparts. In other words, the government considers silver and nano-silver to be essentially the same. But their tiny size means they function quite differently within the body, the full ramifications of which are still coming to light. In 2011, researchers discovered that silver nanoparticles, when inhaled, cause lung toxicity or inflammation in exposed mice.

Similarly, inhaled copper nanoparticles increased the risk of pulmonary infections in mice. Carbon nanotubes, used in super-strong plastics and for computer chips, have presented a particular worry, when research found in 2008 that the particles can damage lungs in a similar fashion as asbestos, which the particles resemble in shape and size.

Ingesting nanoparticles may cause more subtle health problems than inhalation. The particles, due to their small size, can pass into the bloodstream and then accumulate in organs. Once there, writes the American Society of Safety Engineers, they can “disrupt and impair biological, structural and metabolic processes and weaken the immune system.”

And recent research discovered that when chickens consumed large quantities of polystyrene nanoparticles, approved for human consumption, they blocked the animals’ ability to absorb iron. Cornell researcher Gretchen Mahler, one of the authors of the study, says: “The nanomaterials that are being developed all have very different reactivity with human tissues. This means that you can’t apply results with one type of nanoparticle to all other nanoparticles — you have to test them all individually.”