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Honeywell Hepa Clear Germ Reducing Airpurifier with Ultraviolet
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.
Thermoplastic Rubber
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.
AFM Grout Sealer
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.
New Study Shows 94 Percent of Couches Contain Fire Retardants
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
Most doctors don’t warn pregnant patients about environmental risks
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.”
Chlorine Causes Food Allergies
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
Old Crib Mattress Outgassing
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.
Croscil Garden Mist Comforter
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.
Safe Spray for Air Conditioner Coils?
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?
Auto Windshield Seal Outgassing
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.
Optimus Radiant Parabolic Heater
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
Pesticides on Foreign Textile Products
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!
Beds for Kids
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
Bella Luna Toys
“Unique natural toys and products for children and families that are safe, healthy and encourage imaginative play. You will find no battery-operated or plastic toys here, the kind that will be played with for a short time before ending up in a landfill. Our quality toys are not disposable. They are built to last; the kind of toys that can be passed on or handed down to future generations. Most of our toys are made in the USA, Germany or Canada. The ones made overseas are certified to be ethically and sustainably made. Our toys have been tested to meet the strictest safety standards.”
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Listen to Debra’s 2013 interview with Bella Luna Toys Owner Sarah Baldwin. |
Oompa – Naturally Brilliant Toys
Literally hundreds of wooden and organic toys from around the world. “With a keen eye for MODERN design, superior craftsmanship, fine materials, and high play value, we continuously search the world for the best toys for your child. We seek out manufacturers that make sincere efforts to respect the planet and that provide safe, nurturing environments for their employees.” Search by age, brand, category, and country.
Chemical “Soup” Clouds Connection between Toxins and Poor Health
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
A Simple Solution to Block Wireless Signals
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
Study finds health and environmental risk in building insulation
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.
Which Wool is Best?
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!
Table Cloth Protector Without Toxics
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.
Toxic Free Reed Diffuser
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.
Low- or No-Sulfate Shampoos?
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.
Swiss Diamond Cookware
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.
Nontoxic Control for Roof Rats
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.
EcoBalanza
“Modern artisan furniture” made with nontoxic and earthwise materials: certified fabrics, organic cotton and wool, durable hemp, FSC-certified wood, natural latex, hand-tied recycled steel coils, and water-based no-VOC adhesives. They make “premium quality, natural, hand-crafted, stylish, and comfortable upholstered furniture manufactured in an environmentally conscious manner with materials sourced from local suppliers whenever possible. Ecobalanza independently manages all aspects: from design to material sourcing to manufacture, to ensure the quality and integrity of every piece our artisans create.” Choose from a variety of styles and fabrics or ask them to make your own custom design.
Nardo’s Naturals
An organic, “effective and healthy skin care line for women, men and teens…suitable for all skin types…each product is loaded with skin-loving nutrients…derived from nature.” This company was founded by four brothers who were cooking with all-natural food and organic oils. “One day we said to ourselves, if skin care absorbs into your body, why not just rub the organic oils (that we were cooking with) into our skin? It has to be much healthier than some conventional products on the market today. So, we whipped up a coconut concoction in our kitchen!” And now they have a thriving business because their customers love their products.
Rubio Monocoat
A completely different type of wood finish…a VOC-free oil for floors and furniture that colors and protects in one layer. You can apply it to all types of wood. Water and heat resistant (think radiant flooring). Adheres with the wood through molecular bonding, so there are no marks where application overlaps. Damaged areas or scratches are easy to repair because any exposed new wood will absorb the oil and look the same as the original. “allows an intense and deep colouring in one single layer, without influencing the natural look and feel of the wood.”
No-VOC Paint for Cement Basement Floor
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.
Choosing Between Benefit and Exposure
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.
Is This Minivan Too Toxic?
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.
Nanoparticles in Our Food
[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.”
What is TPE?
Question from Bronwyn
Hello Debra, I recently received a suction-cupped placemat for my baby. (To be specific, it’s the “Tiny Diner” by the Summer Corporation). The product is made of “TPE”. I haven’t been able to find much information about this material other than the fact that the company says that it is “BPA, Phthalate, PVC, and Latex-free”. Do you know if this material is food-grade?
Debra’s Answer
I’m finding conflicting information on TPE.
TPE is the acronym for thermoplastic elastomers, also called theroplastic rubbers. They are usually a mix of a plastic and a rubber that results in a substance that has the properties of both.
There are six generic classes of commercial TPEs:
However, on websites selling products made from TPE, some claim it is made from hydrogen and carbon, totally nontoxic.
And then, I found this comment from a customer who bought a TPE yoga mat:
Nontoxic Disposable Diapers
Question from Carrie
I am expecting our third child in mid-December and re-evaluating our diapering choices. With our last we did cotton prefolds and wool covers, but my husband isn’t willing to do something “that complicated” again.
All the other cloth diapering systems count on PUL for their water resistance which seems to defeat the purpose of trying to be “non toxic”.
I’m now wading through the disposable non toxic options or “eco-diapers” and trying to see what is safest. One thing that seems to be debated is the safety of the Super Absorbent material used in most commercial diapers SAP – sodium polyacrylate. Can you tell me what this is and how toxic it is?
There don’t seem to be any brands out there without it – the question appears to be the amount they use.
OR, if you and/or your readers have any suggestions for non-toxic disposable diapers, I’m all ears. Thanks, Carrie
Debra’s Answer
Well, I don’t have any experience with diapers, but I’m sure my readers will have something to say on this subject.
Sodium polyacrylate is a plastic known as “waterlock” that has the ability to absorb as much as 200 to 300 times it’s mass in water. Health Wyze Report: Toxins in Disposable Diapers has this to say about sodium polyacrylate:
However, shouldn’t this gel be INSIDE the diaper and not be touching the skin?
On the other hand, there is this from gDiaper:
I was able to find a few brands of disposable diapers that seem to not have sodium polyacrylate and other toxicants. There are other brands of so-called green diapers but many do contain sodium polyacrylate. It looks like these don’t (please correct me if you find out otherwise).
[all the links I posted here in 2012 are gone in 2018]
Fleabusters
Question from JC in VA
We’ve been in the flea battle for a couple of months and based on all the bites my son has, we feel like we’re losing the battle! We’ve been trying the natural methods as I am very anxious about using chemicals so lots of vacuuming, laundry, pet bathing, cleaning, salt, etc.
Our vet suggested we try a product called fleabusters but before doing so I wanted to get your thoughts. The fleas we have don’t seem too terrible but since my son plays on the floor a lot he seems to be the most affected – and since he plays on the floor so much I am hesitant to coat the carpet in something. Thanks so much for your input and for all your work in general!
Debra’s Answer
Well, I don’t see a list of ingredients on the Fleabusters website, but it sounds like a mixture of boric acid and diatomaceous earth.
I would suggest that you use just plain diatomaceous earth, which you can get at Home Depot, or many other places online and locally.
This is so safe your son could get covered in it and eat it and it’s not toxic. The only caveat I know about it is to not use too much because the dust can be harmful to the lungs.
Diatomaceous earth is like a big sharp knife to a flea. It cuts their bodies and they dry out. It’s mechanical, not chemical.
BioBag Cling Wrap
Cling wrap made from “renewable raw materials of agricultural origin and from non-GMO starch.” As far as I can tell, it’s corn starch, so if you are allergic to corn, don’t use this, but otherwise, it’s a lot better alternative to petrochemical plastic if you use cling wrap. I’ve been told sandwich bags are coming too. They also sell various kitchen bags, shopping bags, and other items generally made from plastic.
Lead Exposure from Stainless Steel?
Question from green-earth
Hi Debra, I was wondering if you think that there might have been any contamination of metals in this situation.
I decided to boil a pair of eyebrow tweezers in a stainless steel pot to sanitize them, but I’m not sure if the eyebrow tweezers themselves were stainless or not, and I think they were made in China. After they were done boiling, there was a black rim in the bottom of the pot and I’m not sure why.
Do you think I should be concerned about lead in this case? The pot was put in the dishwasher too, so do you think that if there was lead in the pot it would be a concern for the rest of the dishes? Thanks
Debra’s Answer
First, there is no lead used to make stainless steel. Even if your tweezers were made in China, I don’t see any reason why they would randomly add lead to the stainless steel formula. Stainless steel does contain other toxic metals (see Q&A: Stainless Steel Leaching into Food and Beverages), but it does not contain lead. It may even not even set up correctly if they added lead to the formula, so I doubt that any stainless steel contains lead.
I’m not sure why there was a black rim at the bottom of the pot, and I’m not concerned about the rest of the dishes.
I am concerned that you are using stainless steel pots for cooking. There are better choices (see Debra’s List: Food: Cookware)
Heat Treatment for Pest Control
Question from Jay
Dear Debra, do you recommend heat treatment as a non-toxic pest control option? If yes, what are the precautions that you would recommend taking? For instance, would a heat treatment release chemicals in my home? Is there any item I should “protect” from the treatment?
Thanks in advance.
Debra’s Answer
Yes, I do recommend heat treatment for pest control. I’ve used it myself.
Here’s a good article on heat treatment for pest control that answers your questions about heat and pest control.
New Scientist: Pest control that’s too hot for bugs to handle
Yes, if you heat your home, it will release any volatile toxic chemicals that are there to be released. But that’s an added benefit as far as I’m concerned.
The only thing I am concerned about for heat treatment in general are people, pets, and plants, but you should use your own judgement regarding things like delicate antiques or old plaster.
Nontoxic Hiking Boots
Question from Dianna
Hello. I am moving to Colorado, and I am looking for warm hiking boots that are non-toxic. Any suggestions?
Debra’s Answer
It’s been a long time since I’ve worn hiking boots. Used to wear them all the time when I lived out in a forest in California.
If I remember correctly, I didn’t particularly have a problem with them. I had a pair that were all leather with rubber soles.
Some of the toxic elements of a hiking boot could be tanning chemicals used on leather, synthetic materials, waterproofing…
Readers, any brands you like? I just have no recent experience with this living in Florida where I wear sandals 364 days of the year.
Amazing Whip-It Cleaner
Question from joan
My daughter just purchased The Amazing Whip-It cleaner and wanted to know if it was safe to use. It claims to be “natural”.
Debra’s Answer
All I can do is evaluate the information they give, I don’t have any inside information other than what is presented.
I looked at their MSDS sheet, which would list the hazardous ingredients it contains that are required to be reported by law (if any) and there were none.
I called the company and they told me that it is 100% natural, the ingredients being eucalyptus oil, citrus oil, coconut oil, corn and salt, so yes, it IS natural and biodegradable. My only reservation about this for some of you is that I know some people are sensitive to eucalyptus oil and some sensitive to corn, so I wouldn’t recommend it if that’s you.
It’s an all-purpose cleaner that targets tough stains on clothing, carpet, vinyl, and hard surfaces as well as for use in automotive, marine, restaurants, offices & much more.
I just ordered some to try as I get a lot of food stains on my clothes. Will let you know how well it works.
Dust hazard from sanding floors?
Question from hellokitty
Hi Debra! Thank you for the wealth of knowledge you are providing. I am trying to create a safe home for my family and your site and book have been of great value.
I want to have the Mexican tile and solid wood floor of my house sanded and polished. Is this a toxic process? I am mostly concerned about the dust particles. I will choose non toxic products for the polish/seal but I don’t know what to do about the dust particles after the sanding.
My wife has MCS and I we small children and pets. What would you recommend? Thank you!
D.K
Debra’s Answer
That amount of dust is a a dust hazard, not necessarily toxic, but a hazard from the amount of particles in the air.
I’m assuming you are going to have the sanding done by a professional. I’ve never had my floors sanded, but I imagine they should have some method of controlling the dust they are creating. That would be a question I would ask before agreeing to have them do the work.
There should be no residual dust from the job, but I would give the house and every surface a good vacuuming after the sanding is done. They should do that anyway, because they don’t want to have any excess dust around when they are applying the new finish.
Odor in New Washing Machine
Question from Margaret
I recently bought a new portable washing machine by Haier that has a polypropylene tub. It has an EXTREMELY strong new odor. Over the past 2 weeks I have tried various things trying to remove the smell: Using a 500 W Halogen Construction Lamp to speed up the outgassing (for about 25+ hours), also, applying a baking soda paste and spraying with vinegar, then running the washer with a few cups each of vinegar and baking soda, etc. Do you think these measures will work in time? Or do you have any other ideas for how to speed up the process? Other products to suggest maybe? Many, Many Thanks! Margaret
Debra’s Answer
Hmmmm…polypropylene doesn’t usually have much of an odor, so I’m not sure what you are smelling.
Readers, any suggestions?
Nontoxic Centipede Control
Question from Bonnie
Centipedes are invading my older home. What can I use? They seem to be multipling every year. Three years ago when I inherited the home I saw several. We were doing some remodeling so we figured they just left after that. No so. Last year quite a few and they are coming up stairs. Ick, Ick, Ick. Someone said spray the basement but with what? It is such an old home there is no way to caulk every spot they might come in. I need help. I killed one in my bedroom last night.
Debra’s Answer
Well, first keep in mind that centipedes are a highly beneficial insect, eating lots of fleas, ants, flies, silverfish, roaches, ticks and other pests. One site I was researching on said, “Forget about using insecticides against them, they ARE insecticides! Get rid of your centipedes and you will almost certainly increase the number of TRUE indoor pests in your home.”
If you don’t want them in the house, just catching them by putting a drinking glass on top and slide a 3×5 card underneath, so you can pick it up and take it out to the garden, where it really belongs. Centipedes can live as long as five or ten years—eating pests all the while.
If you must kill them, use diatomaceous earth, an abrasive powder made from the fossils of diatoms (tiny sea creatures). It works by cutting open the exoskeleton of crawling insects. With their exoskeletons damaged, the bugs dehydrate and die, usually within 48 hours. It works on slugs, earwigs, millipedes, centipedes, silverfish, cockroaches and ants. You can use it safely both indoors and outdoors. Just sprinkle the powder where pests are likely to crawl, live, or hide.
But if you can appreciate the the benefit of their presence in your ecosystem, and simply take them back to their home when they stray into yours, that is the best option.
Low VOC Sealant for Air Ducts
Question from Debbie
Has anyone used Mastic Low to High Velocity Air Duct Sealant by RCD Corp to seal air ducts in attic? The MSDS says it has a pleasant odor and is not a hazardous chemical as defined by OSHA.
Debra’s Answer
Readers?
Can Pesticide Vapor Move Through Walls?
Question from Murray
Hi Debra.
Can pesticide vapor move across/through drywall between units in a conjoined block of units? How? (I guess obviously via cracks, pipes, etc.?). However, what about moving across the porous gypsum component of the drywall product? Everything I’ve found strongly suggests that this can occur.
This opens up a big can of worms re poisoning from insecticide “bombs” and repeated domestic pesticide sprayings, does it not? I’d like to use your answer in a major Essay I’m writing as we speak, if that’s OK?
Kind regards, Murray Thompson
Debra’s Answer
This is a question I can’t give an absolute answer for because all buildings are different.
Yes, if there were cracks, pipes, electric outlets, etc that had a direct connection between the two units, pesticides and other toxics could certainly find their way from unit to unit. However, I’m not sure what the likelihood is of those spaces being there between units. I would think that buildings would be constructed to be individually sealed.
That said, I believe that buildings can have air exchange between units through the ventilation system. But again, may or may not. This needs to be checked on an individual basis.
Now, as to your question about pesticides or other volatile chemicals can get through drywall, the answer appears to be no.
On the GreenBuildingAdvisor.com website it says:
What have you seen that suggests there can be air movement through drywall? Yes, it is porous in that water can move through it so theoretically air could move through it too, but as indicated above, it is considered an air barrier in building circles.
Wireless-free listening and reading devices?
Question from deniseo
I have made my house as wireless as possible to avoid EMF exposure. I am looking for information about using Ipod’s and ereaders. Can wi-fi be disabled in these devices and is that adequate to eliminate exposure. I don’t have the ability to purchase and then measure with a meter. Any comments and thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
I don’t know enough about how these devices work to answer this question.
Readers, any thoughts?
Smoking Will Kill Up To A Billion People Worldwide This Century
That’s the conclusion of John Seffrin, chief executive of the American Cancer Society.
Smoking kills more than half of all smokers, mostly from cancer.
Smoking will be the biggest public health disaster in the history of the world.
Smoking is still the most important cause of cancer… If you smoke a few cigarettes a day, it will be the most dangerous thing you do.
The Independent: Smoking will ‘kill up to a billion people worldwide this century’
In another story about smoking, experts say that the harm caused by smoking can be passed down from generation to generation, with a smoker’s grandchildren also likely to be affected. What happens is that smoking during pregnancy can “switch on” bad genes, which are then passed on.
Cigarette smoke is one of our most toxic exposures. If you smoke, quit. Avoid second-hand smoke.
The California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act
Question from Lana
What is your stance on California’s Proposition 37, The California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act? Do you agree that GMO’s should be clearly labeled on food product packages?
Thank you!
Debra’s Answer
Of course I agree that GMOs should be clearly labeled on food product packages.
But I think this isn’t enough. GMOs should be banned altogether, as should industrially processed food. The ONLY food that should be sold is fresh organic whole unprocessed foods, to be minimally prepared at home.
I also think that toxic chemicals in products should be clearly labeled on product packaging of all kinds, and better, yet, they shouldn’t be in products at all.
If I lived in California, I would vote in favor of labeling. So all of you reading this who live in California, please go vote for me.
Goodkind Pens
Refillable wooden pens, with nontoxic vegetable-based ink and a nontoxic finish. Barrel and cap are made from factory scraps from a furniture company and reclaimed birch.
Brand New Apartment Is Making Me Sick
Question from B Kyser
Hello I was reading the advice you had for the New Apartment question from another person. My question is what can I do if I have already moved into this brand new apartment complex and at first it didnt bother me, a week or so, but we were busy and running in and out, now I smell horrible chemical smells, especially in the bathrooms. It is making me sick to my stomach and headaches. I cant afford to move. Please please advise me. I want to enjoy my new apartment.
Debra’s Answer
It’s difficult to advise you without seeing your apartment and the sources of toxic exposures.
One thing you can always do is use an air filter, but it’s always better to remove chemicals at the source.
I am available to do toxic home inspections anywhere in the world
Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioning
Question from HEGS
We have purchased an old home without any ducts, that is heated with radiators. We are interested in installing central air conditioning and I just learned about ductless mini-split air conditioning, which is a less expensive way to install air conditioning in homes without existing ductwork. I don’t know much about these systems and I was wondering if you or your readers knew about any environmental or health concerns associated with them, and if anyone has experience with their efficiency?
Thanks.
Debra’s Answer
I think this is a relatively new product because I only just heard of it for the first time within the last month and a unit is on display in a prominent location at my local Home Depot.
Here is a simple explanation with photo US Department of Energy: Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
We need a new air conditioner in the near future and I’m looking at this as a replacement for ours.
The one I saw at Home Depot is made entirely of plastic, which I wasn’t fond of, however, I think the plastic needs to be researched to see what type it is and if it would pollute the air in any way.
Could you find out what type of plastic it’s made from? Then we could discuss it further.
Need an Inexpensive Futon
Question from Lisa D.
Hello Debra, We are trying to find the least expensive yet least toxic futon mattresses since we just moved and are starting over. We had White Lotus ones in the past but honestly we can’t afford that route right now. I am trying to decide between the Gold Bond Wool Wrap futon mattress (that has boric acid and foam) and a cotton/wool wrap futon from Crane & Turtle which I was told could be without the boric acid. I am pregnant and concerned about health issues and boric acid although some people say it’s safe. Which would you do, or would you do something else? Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
First, I wouldn’t do foam and boric acid, especially if you are pregnant.
I looked at the Crane & Turtle cotton/wool wrap and it certainly is a great price, but it’s not organic cotton. Pesticide residues stay in cotton batting, so it’s especially important for a bed to have organic batting in the filling.
And particularly since you are pregnant, it’s important to eliminate as many chemicals as you can. Since you spend 1/3 of your life lying on a mattress, this is no place to save money. There’s a saying “penny wise, pound foolish.” Saving money now will not save money in the future should your child’s health be compromised by pesticides in your mattress.
I know you are on a budget and there are many other chemicals you are being exposed to. But in my opinion, the mattress is one of the most important things to spend money on, and get the purest you can.
White Lotus frequently has sales so you may be able to get a White Lotus mattress for less than you think. Call them.
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Orgreenic Pans
Question from lynne
I found pans with the OrGreenic brand. Do you recommend them? I am particularly concerned about my bird.
Thanks,
Lynne
Debra’s Answer
Someone else asked about Orgreenic a couple of years ago (see Orgreenic nonstick pan)
At the time I didn’t have any experience, but since saw one in a “as-seen-on-TV” store.
The finish feels like plastic to me, not like ceramic.
See Debra’s List: Cookware for my recommended brands.
Is Stoneware Safe?
Question from Alexandra
Hi Debra, Is stoneware a non toxic product? I am considering getting some stoneware items. Namely the butter dish and the teapot from Le Creuset. Also, some children’s play dishes at IKEA. Do you have any advice on this? Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
Some stoneware is safe. There are two variables.
One is contaminants in the clay itself. The other is lead or other metals in the glaze.
It’s always a good idea to check on the purity of lead and glaze before purchasing.
Call the manufacturer.
BottlesUp
The most beautiful reusable water bottles I’ve seen. Clear recycled glass, colorful silicone top, with a midsection taper and three silicone rings that match the top for good grip and comfortable grasp. It’s truly a work of art. The glass for their bottles is sourced on-site and made in North America using a minimum of 75% post-consumer recycled glass. The bottles are made by skilled glass workers in Mexico. The food-grade silicone accessories are produced in Maine. “There is no plastic in the product or the packaging, a commitment to both health and the environment.”
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Listen to my interview with BottlesUp Glass Founder Laurel Herter. |
Allure Wool Dryer Balls
These colorful wool dryer balls are so adorable, they make me smile every time I look at the picture. “I like to make wool dryer balls, they are natural and clean! With wool dryer balls your laundry will dry faster, stay soft and fluffy. This eco-friendly product is a great way of saving your money and reduce drying time of your clothes. My wool dryer balls have been made from 100% natural wool. Wool Dryer Balls made from pure merino wool which has been wet felted using only water and soap. Balls are washed with detergent without any chemical additives and fragrances. If you buy Wool Dryer Balls you will cut down your expenses and keep your time without using laundry drying and material conditioner for clothes. You just need to use 4 wool balls during clothes drying and you will decrease the working drying time average 25% and put down nearly 30- 45% of total loading.”
What is Causing My Children’s Bloody Noses?
Question from morgan
We recently moved into a new house and my 2 month old and 2 year old both have had blood in their noses since we moved in and I was wondering what could possibly be causing that? It has been fixed up recently but also has an old basement in an area with high radon.
Debra’s Answer
It sounds like there are many materials in your home that could be releasing various chemicals that would irritate your children’s respiratory track to the point of causing bloody noses.
“It has been fixed up recently…” with what? New paint, new carpets, new cabinets? Any one of those has chemicals that can cause irritation and more.
Radon could be doing it too.
This is the kind of thing we could discuss in more detail in a paid telephone consultation. I can help you identify exact source points of chemicals and how to remedy them.
Vermont Soap
“Our products are so natural, they’re certified to USDA organic food standards by Vermont Organic Farmers.” They have been a certified organic processorsince 2003. For over twenty years Vermont Soap has been manufacturing 100% natural and toxic-free personal care and cleaning products. They make handmade bar soaps for sensitive skin, anti-aging products and moisturizers, 100% natural shower gels (soap based), castile liquid soaps, nontoxic cleaners, products for pets, camping and gardening. All products are free from artificial scents (many are unscented altogether) and other toxic ingredients, such as antimicrobials and detergents.
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Listen to Debra’s interviews with Vermont Soap founder Larry Plesent |
Breadmaker Without Non-Stick Finish?
Question from Kelly
I love using my breadmaker. However, the loaf pan has a non-stick surface. Are there any breadmakers that do not have a non-stick loaf pan?
Debra’s Answer
Not that I know of, but I don’t particularly keep up with all the breadmakers, as eat gluten-free.
Readers? Any suggestions?
Healthy Chair Mat?
Question from Percyfaith
I am looking for a healthy material chair mat for my computer desk. Don’t know if there is such a thing. I have a low pile carpet in the room and over my lifetime have mostly used the cheap mats at office supply stores. I am more sensitive now and the 2 mats we have have cracked and need replacing. I found a mat I liked (size and price) but it was made of polycarbonate. I know that is avoided in drinking bottles but not sure if it is ok for flooring mats. Do you know a healthy material and a source? I don’t not have much money to spend either.
Debra’s Answer
The issue in drinking bottles is that the water is sitting in the bottle for a long period, having a lot of contact time with the plastic, which leaches BPA into the water.
BPA does not particularly emit vapors into the air from polycarbonate, it’s a contact issue.
This mat should be fine. The only caution I would give you is to not walk on it with bare feet and especially don’t have bare feet sitting on the mat for hours on end while you are working at the desk. Any plastic can be absorbed through the skin by contact, especially long period of contact where heat and moisture from your feet can increase leaching.
Coil Spring Sofa Cushions
Question from sara
Hello – where did you get your sofa cushions? Coil spring w/organic cotton? I’ve heard that children with allergies should not use organic latex cushions due to potential sensitization due to offgassing, especially if they are allergic to avocado, kiwi, milk, etc.
Debra’s Answer
I had mine custom-made.
I bought an old sofa at an auction and had it all stripped down, then repadded with organic cotton batting and covered with 100% linen fabric (this was before organic upholstery fabric was available).
Your upholsterer should be able to get coil spring cushions for you.
Is Gyp-Create OK to Use for Radiant Heat Flooring?
Question from raftergirl
Debra–Thanks for your work in hosting this Q&A, I rely on it for lots of decisions! So thanks!
I have a question about Gyp-Crete. Here is the MSDS link: http://www.maxxon.com/MSDS/MSDS_MAXXON_UNDERLAYMENTS.pdf
I have MCS and we may put down radiant floor heating to provide safe heat. Our contractor suggested using Gyp-Crete instead of regular cement to house the tubing because it is much less weight (we are retrofitting the system into an older house). We would finish out the Gyp-Crete as our flooring (no wood or tile on top).
Since the Gyp-Crete will be heated I want to be sure if won’t off gass. This is a concern to me as I’m very chemically sensitive. The MSDS sheet says it is primarily Gypsum and Portland Cement. But it does have a list of other additives. What do you think?
Thanks so much!
Debra’s Answer
This looks fine to me in terms of offgassing. All of the ingredients listed are particles, not gasses, and once bound up in the cement they will not be released with heat in the same way gasses are released.
Be careful about the finish applied, as that WILL outgas vapors until all the solvent has outgassed.
Ecoland
“Pure organic cotton underwear for the entire family…designed with simplicity and quality in mind.” This small, family-owned company believes in “helping our planet and our loved ones by producing the best quality organic cotton apparel.” They use only GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified organic cotton. From field to fabric finish, all processes are certified by Skal, a division of the Control Union World Group. In an effort to reduce the use of natural resources, they emphasize classic colors and styles that never go out of fashion. Their apparel is multifunctional and can be worn as underwear, sleepwear, or as layers, so you don’t need to buy as many pieces of clothing. Ladies’ and men’s collections are tagless (labels are printed with water-based inks and adhered via heat transfer)
Pacific Rim Woodworking
Heirloom quality bedroom furniture using traditional construction methods such as mortise and tenon and dovetail. “Since 1981, Pacific Rim Woodworking has offered hand-crafted, solid maple furniture at affordable prices. We use Western Maple grown in managed forests in Washington and Oregon. To highlight the natural beauty of this distinctive hardwood, we hand-rub each piece with our own finish. Enduring quality and simple elegance are the hallmarks of our contemporary American style.”
Restoration Hardware Wool Rugs
Question from AnnaDella
Debra, do you think Restoration Hardware’s 100% wool rugs are as good as BioCarpet? They seem to cost exactly the same with carpet pad-all wool–and the experience is such an upper, but the 2 dealers who sell the Earthweave carpet are not a good experience.
I got a quote from the local dealer, but then received the RH gorgeous catalog for baby nurseries in the mail. The color & weaves is the same, and the price was even a couple hundred dollars less. If it doesn’t smell like camel urine, then don’t you think we are safe, even if they are made in India? they have no synthetic backing or adhesive.
Here is the Biocarpet/Earthweave:
Natural Wool Carpet, Non Toxic, Green, High Quality –Earth Weave Carpet Mills, Inc.
Here is a picture of Restoration Hardware Natural wool rug-very very similar:
Chunky Braided Wool Rug – Cream | Ben Soleimani for RH | Restoration Hardware
This link tells about the man who does their rugs, & the quality
images.restorationhardware.com/media/articles/RH_DreamWeaver_BenSoleimani.pdf
Restoration Hardware just opened a multi-story stunning showroom in Houston, and is full of creative interior designers. I hope you think their wool rug looks as high quality as your standards–I think it is not camel pee stinky or adhesive stinky, and the prices & softness/quality seem to even exceed the Biocarpet experience.
Debra’s Answer
First I want to say that two products don’t need to meet the same standards in order for you to choose one or the other. The question for me is not does the Restoration Hardware carpet compare with Biocarpet, but does it meet the basic standards I would apply to choosing a carpet.
The answer appears to be yes. I say “appears to be” because I can only go by the description, I’m not looking at the actual carpet.
The thing I would check is what pesticides may be applied in manufacture, and even if there are none, always assume that pesticides are sprayed in shipping containers from India, and that would be a reason to go with the Made-in-USA Bioweave. Packaging may be sufficient to protect this rug from India during it’s travels, but it’s an unknown.
It’s is a beautiful carpet. I agree.
Is Bora-Care Termite Treatment Safe?
Question from Dawn
Hi Debra, Do you have any thoughts on a product called Bora Care? We are considering purchasing a home that is being sprayed with Bora Care for a fungus issue in the crawl space. By state law it can only be applied once which makes me concerned about its safety. I am having a hard time locating information on its safety. We will be renovating the house before we move in so several months will pass after the treatment. Any help you can provide would be appreciated!!! Love your site!
Debra’s Answer
It’s actually one of the safest termite treatments on the market. Read about it at ePestSupply: Bora-Care
Study finds lower thyroid hormones in baby boys exposed to BPA
Pregnant women exposed to higher levels of the chemical bisphenol A gave birth to baby boys with lower thyroid hormones, according to a new study published today. The study by University of California, Berkeley, scientists is the first to link the ubiquitous chemical – found in hard plastics, canned foods and paper receipts – to altered thyroid hormones in babies, and it adds to evidence that BPA may have some effects on fetuses. For every doubling of the mothers’ BPA levels, there was a 9.9 percent decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormones in their baby boys. No significant effect was detected in the girls. Scientists do not know what, if anything, the reductions in thyroid hormones might mean for the health of the babies because their levels remained within the range considered normal. But previous research suggests that reduced thyroid hormones might impair learning abilities and motor skills because they control brain development.
Read more at Environmental Health News: Study finds lower thyroid hormones in baby boys exposed to BPA
The All Natural Beauty Website
The most comprehensive collection of information on natural and organic beauty products I’ve seen. They really do offer “the purist beauty products and services around,” along with articles and books written by knowledgeable experts, so you can learn what natural beauty really is and many DIY natural beauty recipes.
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Listen to my interview with Sharon Houghton, Founder and Director of All Natural Beauty Website. |
Nontoxic Treatment for Clothes Moths
Question from Lois
We have found case bearing clothes moths in our home. They might be the carpet variety. I think they came in on mover’s cloths when we had some furniture delivered although I am not sure. Do you have any suggestions on how to get rid of them. We have vacuumed constantly and put lavender bags in closets. I still pick up the case stage on the floor or walls. I am recovering from breast cancel and dread using chemicals. Any thoughts?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Debra’s Answer
Here is a pretty thorough writeup about controlling clothese moths without toxic pesticides:
Toxic Chemicals in Mobile Phones
As if EMFs in mobile phones weren’t bad enough, a new study ranks mobile phones for toxic chemicals.
“Every phone sampled in this study contained at least one of following hazardous chemicals: lead, bromine, chlorine, mercury and cadmium. These hazardous substances can pollute throughout a product’s life cycle, including when the minerals are extracted; when they are processed; during phone manufacturing; and at the end of the phone’s useful life. Emissions during disposal and recycling of phones as electronic waste, or “e-waste,” are particularly problematic. The mining of some tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold used in mobile phones has been linked to conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”
While these toxic chemicals don’t appear to leach while we are using them, they do pollute the environment, where we are then exposed to them.
Do we really need cell phones?
Ikea Crib
Question from Debra’s Answer:
I am looking to buy a baby crib.
The solid wood cribs are phenomenally expensive and not in my budget.
I have managed to find the Ikea Sniglar crib, which is unfinished and solid wood, except it has a fiberboard mattress support. I am going to view this crib in a few days to see if it is possible to remove the fiberboard and replace it with slats (I am handy).
So I have two questions:
1) If the fiberboard cannot be removed, would AFM Safeseal do the trick? And then wrapping the fibreboard in food grade polyethelene after the Safeseal has cured? I have both.
2) I’d like the crib to be mahogany color. I see that AFM makes a stain called Duroseal in mahogany that is low-voc. Usually I try to buy NO-voc, but AFM is well know for their non toxic products. Is this safe to use in a sleep environment for a baby or is there a better option?
Debra’s Answer
I’ve seen the Sniglar crib at IKEA and think it is a good choice.
There is a type of fiberboard that is used in the bottom of drawers that has no formaldehyde–it’s just pressed fibers that are steamed together. If this is the type of fiberboard used, it’s fine as is.
If you think you should remove it and cannot, yes AFM Safeseal would do the trick. You wouldn’t need to wrap it in food grade polyethylene too. One or the other would be fine. Foil would also be fine.
I haven’t used the AFM stains, but from the description it should be fine, especially with a six week cure and especially if you put it outdoors in the sun.
However, let me just give you the super-caution. Babies are extremely vulnerable to toxics even in very small amounts. If it were me, I would just leave the wood unfinished and take no chances at all. I can’t stress this enough. Exposures early in life can cause problems later in life. I can’t tell you for sure what is in these products, so better safe than sorry. Yes they are less toxic, but baby-safe? I don’t know.
“Persistent Chemicals” Continue to Poison Decades Later
Press release
A new Public Health Institute (PHI) study indicates for the first time that a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer as a young adult, before age 50, is three times higher if she has a high fraction of one form of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in her blood during her reproductive years.
The study, published online Sunday in the journal Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, linked breast cancer development to chemical exposures, and identified risk due to exposure during a time when the breast is particularly vulnerable to toxins–during puberty, pregnancy, and just after giving birth.
1 out of 4 women in the study had a high proportion of PCB 203, along with a lower proportion of two other PCBs. These women had a 3-fold increased likelihood of developing breast cancer by age 50, when compared to the quarter of women who had the lowest proportion of PCB203.
The study, by the Child Health and Development Studies (CHDS), is of particular import because nearly everyone alive today has been exposed to PCBs. PCBs are synthetic chemicals that are endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body’s normal functioning by blocking or mimicking hormones. Classified as persistent organic pollutants, they were widely used from 1929 until 1977, when the U.S. banned their manufacture and use.
However, PCBs are ubiquitous, still found today in the soil, water, the food chain, stored in human body fat, and also found in fish from contaminated waters– meaning even many children born today will still be exposed. In fact, all pregnant women in a 2011 study by University of California San Francisco associate professor Tracey Woodruff, PhD, were found to have PCBs in their blood.
The CHDS team analyzed blood samples collected from pregnant women who were Kaiser Permanente members in the Oakland area from 1959 to 1967, a period when PCBs were routinely used in coolants and lubricants, paints and plasticizers.
Researchers measured PCBs in blood samples obtained shortly after giving birth, when women were an average of 26 years of age. These women were then followed for breast cancer for an average of 17 years. Because the PCBs measured in this study remain in the body for a long time, levels measured just after giving birth reflect what was in the woman’s blood during pregnancy, and may also indicate what was in a woman’s blood years before the blood sample was taken, possibly during puberty, when the breast is also vulnerable.
“To our knowledge, this is the first study to report on breast cancer associations in relation to measured PCB blood levels during critical periods of vulnerability for the breast,” wrote lead author Barbara A. Cohn, PhD, director of the Child Health and Development Studies (CHDS) in Berkeley, where the research was conducted.
This study illustrates how long it takes to determine whether exposures do harm, since breast cancer occurs many decades after the period when the breast is most vulnerable. “What is concerning,” says Cohn, “is that important exposures happened decades before these women’s cancer actually developed. And women are still being impacted today. One must ask, what are the long term effects of chemicals on the market today? And how can we do a better job of protecting ourselves?”
Cohn’s findings support efforts to minimize exposure to other environmental chemicals that could disrupt biological systems—whether they have been tested for relation to breast cancer or not. Today’s chemicals are distributed throughout the world and in the food supply, so that controlling exposures to new chemicals will require broad cooperative or regulatory efforts that recognize potential harm, rather than proven harm. In the absence of regulation of chemicals against potential harm, Cohn advises young girls and women who might become pregnant to try to reduce unnecessary exposure to environmental chemicals whenever possible, even chemicals not yet studied for their effect on breast cancer, to minimize the total exposure. She suggests taking steps to avoid chemicals with a similar structure, such as flame retardants found in furniture, as well as fish high on the food chain like bass that contain more contaminants, and to avoid toxic chemicals found in some cosmetics and household products. She refers those looking for specific guidelines to The Breast Cancer Fund website.
The study does not explain why some of the women developed breast cancer while others didn’t, but posits that certain people have higher risk because of the way their bodies metabolize or respond to the exposure.
The current study follows another CHDS study on PCBs in 2011, which found a possible connection between a daughter’s exposure to PCBs in her mother’s uterus and difficulty becoming pregnant as an adult. This is the second breast cancer study conducted by Cohn and colleagues in a unique study population that was followed beginning in pregnancy, the Child Health and Development Studies comprised of 15,000 women in the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan who have been followed since the 1960’s.
Co-authors of this study are Mary Beth Terry of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, Piera M. Cirillo of the CHDS and Marj Plumb of Plumbline Coaching and Consulting, Inc., in Berkeley.
About the Public Health Institute
The Public Health Institute, an independent nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting health, well-being and quality of life for people throughout California, across the nation and around the world. PHI’s primary methods for achieving these goals include: sharing evidence developed through quality research and evaluation; conducting public policy and advocacy; providing training and technical assistance; and promoting successful prevention strategies to policymakers, communities and individuals. www.phi.org.
DeodoMom Deodorant
A “toxin-free and hypoallergenic deodorant for pregnant women, which of course is also suitable for any health-conscious person regardless of gender or age. The deodorant has no aluminum, alcohol, fragrance, dye, or parabens and is 100% vegan. And unlike most ‘natural’ deodorants, it WORKs.” What it does contain is water and magnesium hydroxide, a natural mineral. They also make and sell a very pure olive oil soap.
Pharmaca
A pharmacy with a natural twist, Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy has offered traditional pharmacy services alongside holistic remedies since 2000. Their staff of certified practitioners help guide customers through an extensive selection of alternative remedies, natural cosmetics and body care products. They also provide “easy access to credentialed pharmacists, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, herbalists and more so you can achieve good health without an appointment, insurance or headache.” They carry professional grade supplements that can only be sold with professional health advice. “We believe that personal health is connected to environmental health. We ensure our stores are environmentally friendly by buying wind power offsets, installing recycled carpet and offering organic and sustainably harvested products.” I had the pleasure of visiting a Pharma store when I was in San Francisco and spent a long time browsing.
Scissors with Microban
Question from Mary
I purchased a pair of scissors with Microban. I wouldn’t use a dish drainer with Microban. Presumably with the scissors I could wash my hands after using them, but I might still absorb Microban through my skin. Also, I have health problems. Shall I keep the scissors or pass them on?
Debra’s Answer
Pass them on. Scissors with Microban? What will they think of next? We don’t need Microban on every product in the world.
Latex Has An Odor
Question from Janet Scarth
My husband and I bought a latex foam mattress topper. We’ve had it airing out for the past month (outside and in the garage) and it still smells. We put in on our bed for the first time yesterday. We put it in a zipper vinyl mattress protector (which we aired out for a week) and the odour is still there. Will it ever go away? Any ideas on how to get rid of the odour?
Debra’s Answer
I don’t know how to get rid of the odor except time.
I have said many times that I do not personally buy latex products because of the odor.
Readers, any suggestions?
Safest Bra Material?
Question from greenmama29
Hello! What is the safest bra material? I realize organic cotton would be ideal, but I cannot afford them, and even worse am having trouble finding one I like. I would assume wireless cotton would be next best, but considering it is likely GMO and treated with pesticides, I’m not quite sure. Others I’ve found are nylon, but it’s a petrochemical, yuck! Thoughts on this?
Debra’s Answer
Actually, though non-organic cotton is grown with pesticides and may be GMO, those residues are removed during the processing of the cotton into fabric, so you’re not being exposed to them when fabric touches your skin.
Have you looked at Decent Exposures?
Ingredients in Fragrances
The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) has published a list of fragrance ingredients used in consumer goods worldiwide and also evaluates fragrance ingredients for safety. It is the trade association representing the global fragrance industry.
“To support our drive for increased transparency, IFRA has published an alphabetized list of fragrance ingredients used by IFRA affiliated members around the world. This list represents the industry’s palette of materials from which fragrances are formulated. We believe releasing information on our materials will help us in our efforts to communicate about the industry’s extensive safety program more comprehensively.”
“IFRA’s Safety Program establishes safe use for fragrance materials. The IFRA Code of Practice and the IFRA Standards are based on risk assessments and may prohibit or restrict the use of fragrance materials in consumer goods if there is concern for human health or the environment. The Code of Practice and the Standards must be adhered to by all IFRA affiliated member companies. Adherence is enforced through the IFRA Compliance Program.”
Natural and synthetic ingredients are listed alphabetically by their chemical name and their Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number. 3194 of them.
In the IFRA Code of Practice, it says “Fragrance ingredients should only be used when, based on appropriate information and evaluation, it has been concluded that they present no unreasonable risk to human health and the environment and are safe under their intended conditions of use.”
Indeed the entire mission of this organization seems to be to determine the safety of fragrance ingredients and allow only safe fragrance ingredients to be used.
They have a list of prohibited ingredients and restricted ingredients and lots of information about how they come to these decisions.
You can even find out from them what specific chemicals are in the fragrance of a specific brand name product.
I will just say, browsing the list of acceptable fragrance ingredients, there are many I recognize as toxic: styrene, ethylene glycol, phenol, benzene, xylene, formaldehyde…some of these are among the most toxic solvents that exist.
* * *
There is also the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM). They have “the most comprehensive, worldwise source of toxicology data, literature and general information on fragrance and flavor raw materials” but you have to be a member to access it. And to be a member, you need to be in the industry and be sponsored by two RIFM members. So consumers don’t have access.
But industry safety standards are maintained by IFRA, using data from RIFM.
Toxic College Dorm Room
Question from Judith
Hi, Debra, I am a long-time reader and fan of your website and books; thank you for the great service you provide.
We have the following frustrating and worrisome situation.
We just moved my 18-year-old daughter into her college dorm and to our dismay, her building, as well as many others on campus, have been “renovated” with new carpeting, furniture, and mattress within the last year. We can smell the formaldehyde and other contaminants in the air of her room.
All her life, she has had health issues and severe food and environmental allergies which have led us to seek a toxin-free lifestyle. Right now, she is not reacting to the off-gassing, but we both know that it is very unhealthy for her to be exposed to these toxins in the long term.
It seems that moving to another building will probably not be a good option, especially as many other buildings have indoor air that is just as bad or worse.
Other than switching out her mattress with an older, safer one, I am not sure what else would help. I was thinking maybe air-cleaning green plants (but which ones)? Would a powerful air purifier filter gases? Any help or advice would be much appreciated!
Debra’s Answer
I haven’t used them because I have no carpets in my house!
I think in this particular case, the proper air filter would be the best solution. Plants do remove pollutants from the air, but you would need a lot of them to handle this level of pollution. See Debra’s List: Air Filters for air filters that can do the job.
SC Johnson Ingredient Disclosure
You may have seen the commercial on TV for SC Johnson products where they say they are disclosing all their ingredients for products like Windex, Glade, Pledge and more.
I went to their website and easily found this information. I just want to discuss it a bit because I think it’s a great idea and want to encourage more major manufacturers to do the same.
A whole section of their website is devoted to “What’s Inside SC Johnson: A Cloer Look at the Ingredients Inside Our Products.”
Start at Find a Product By Brand. I chose Windex and then Windex Original Glass Cleaner.
Each individual product page has a list of ingredients organized by function. Better yet, you can click on each ingredient and you will get a popup page that tells you what the ingredient is and what it does, plus links to information from various sources that give safety and toxicity data, so you can make your own decision as a consumer. Sources include places like Skin Deep, International Fragrance Association, FDA, EPA, TOXNET, and others. (After looking at a few products, I noticed the same links were on all ingredients, but they don’t point to the ingredient on that site, only to the site itself, you have to search for the ingredient. I would prefer to see a synopsis of the data from these sources on one page).
SC Johnson has their own Fragrance Palette, a list of ingredients they use to formulate their “secret recipe” fragrances. While they don’t specify the ingredients used in each fragrance in their ingredients list, if you see an ingredient on the Fragrance Palette list that you are concerned about, you can call their 800 number and they can “help you with specific product choices.” While their fragrance palette has more than 1500 ingredients, they also specifically list ingredients they don’t use, like formaldehyde and phthalates and “any known carcinogens, mutagens or reproductive toxins listed by the U.S. National Toxicology Program, the European Union’s REACH and Substances of Very High Concern programs, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Carcinogens, or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.”
And, they also include the MSDS at the bottom of the page.
Great resource!
Did it make me decide to use their products? NO.
But at least I can evaluate them more easily than before. And at least they show what toxic chemicals are NOT in the products as well.
I appreciate the thoroughness of disclosure of ingredients. What is still lacking is an easy at-a-glance summary of the toxicity or safety of those ingredients.
But kudos to SC Johnson for a step in the right direction.
Te Bella Tea Company
A lovely little website with organic and fair trade teas in many unusual flavors. Choose from green, white, oolong, black, herbal, rooibos, and mate teas, with flavors like raspberry/rosehip/pomegranate, orange/almond, and peppermint/rosepetal/lavender. They have teas that open into blossoms when brewed and a tea infused with jasmine blossoms using a technique that is 900 years old. Family owned and operated.
The Healthy Bra Company
Custom bras that are “just right” for your body, regardless of shape, size, anatomical features, or body conditions. Because each body is unique, a comprehensive assessment process is used to take into consideration each woman’s individual needs. It is then determined whether a custom-fitted, custom-altered, or custom-made bra is needed. Bras are based on an innovative and scientifically-inspired design of “suspension support”, developed in the 1960’s, by aeronautic engineers–which support the breasts from below, and around, rather than having your shoulders bear the weight of the breasts through the straps. In addition, these bras are further modified to meet your health needs. “Postural muscles…need stimulation to bring them…into action”. As the bra supports the breasts and reinforces the proper postural alignment, it POSITIVELY affects the gravitational load or “stress” on the body. So a properly fitting bra can affect a host of “gravitational stress symptoms” such as muscle and nerve pain, rotator cuff injuries, osteoarthritis, poor circulation, poor and limited oxygenation of the body. Who knew that these things could have any relationship to a bra!” Especially important to anyone concerned about toxics is that these bras are designed to allow free flow of lymph drainage, a function essential to body detox that is blocked by most bras. Bras are made of a combination of cotton, organic cotton, and synthetics, depending on what is needed for the specific individual. Any bra can be lined with organic cotton so only natural fibers touch the skin. Bras for everyday wear, sports and activities, pregnancy, nursing, mastectomy, re-construction, surgeries – reduction, embellishment, therapeutic, teens in training, breast health-conscious bras, postural bras, and more.
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Listen to my interview with Maria Monti Founder The Healthy Bra Company. |
Dirty electricity from wind and solar farms
Question from ANDRE FAUTEUX
Are wind farms saving or killing us? A provocative investigation claims thousands of people are falling sick because they live near them
The symptoms they claim to have suffered may vary – including dizziness; increased blood pressure and depression – but the theme remains the same
Dr. Brad Weeks says “Solar farms are equally toxic.” http://weeksmd.com/2012/09/windfarms-causes-toxic-electrical-pollution/
Dirty electricity needs to be measured and corrected in every home.
I use Graham Stetzer filters all over my house, but did you know you that before using them, you need to ensure there are no wiring and grounding errors/problems in your home? If not, they could make your power dirtier and generate strong magnetic fields all along the unbalanced circuits.
Details from electrician Sal La Duca, B.Sc., former nuclear plant operator and technician and great American Baubiologist:
http://www.emfrelief.com/capacitive-filters.html
His conclusion:
As a general rule capacitive filter installation is NOT recommended without a thorough evaluation of the electrical system to: 1) identify and eliminate any wiring errors, and 2) NOT recommended if the neutral current takes many divergent paths as shown in the house with the electrical service at one end of the house and the water pipe at the other end, and 3) NOT recommended if there are any other options (like removing dimmer switches, replacing compact fluorescents or fluorescents in general with standard lamps, reducing the number of digital devices, etc.) available to eliminate the problem.
Andre Fauteux, Publisher/Editor
La Maison du 21e siecle magazine
What is Resin?
Question from Donna
Hi Debra, I’m trying to find a cute toothbrush holder and soap pump for my son’s bathroom, but most of them are made of “resin.” Is resin safe for bathroom accessories? Thank you, Donna
Debra’s Answer
Resin is a substance that begins in a viscous state (a thick, sticky consistency between a solid and a liquid) and then hardens.
There are many natural resins, one of the most familiar being the aromatic sticky stuff that oozes out of Christmas trees. But many other plants produce resins, too, and they have been used by humans for thousands of years to make various everyday products, including varnish, lacquer, inks, perfumes, jewelry and other objects.
Today most resins are are made from petroleum. Resin refers to the type of material, rather than the chemical it is made from, so you can have, for example, polyester resin, acrylic resin, epoxy resins, and the like, each of which have different toxicity.
In general, however, the rule of thumb is hard plastic is safer than soft plastic, so if this is a hard resin, it’s probably pretty safe.
You could call the manufacturer and ask for the type of resin used and their MSDS. Then I could give you a better assessment.
Need a Fine Sieve to Rinse Quinoa
Question from PJ
A kitchen store employee suggested that I use “food grade silicon caulk” to seal the rim of the fine sieve I purchased to rinse quinoa. The dry grain was getting stuck under the rim and swelling, making it impossible to remove. I have looked for a replacement fine sieve and they all look like they are made the same. I am uneasy about the suggestion. I would appreciate your input. Thank you
Debra’s Answer
Silicon caulk is toxic when applied, but does cure to be nontoxic as the solvents evaporate. If you are going to use it, do use one that is food grade as it is especially designed to be food safe to FDA standards (though I don’t always agree with them).
You might want to search the internet, if you haven’t already, for “fine sieve.” I just did and found various styles. I don’t know which you are using, and I don’t rinse quinoa, so I don’t know what to suggest. Perhaps a reader will respond.
I just remembered my grandmother rinsing rice, washing the starch off by rubbing it between her hands. At the end she just poured off the water through one hand, leaving the grain in the bowl. Sometimes our hands are the simplest tools and work just fine.
Or line a bowl with cheesecloth and pour the quinoa through.
Think “outside the sieve” on this one.
Arsenic-Free Rice
Question from Shoshana
Do you know which brands of organic rice have less arsenic or no arsenic?
Debra’s Answer
Here is an article from Rodale that I think answers your question: Rodale: How Companies Are Coping With Arsenic in Rice.
Arsenic is a poison, but it is also a naturally occurring element, present throughout the Earth’s crust in minute qualities. Our bodies are designed to process arsenic, which can pass through the body in a few days. The problem occurs when there are higher concentrations of arsenic in rice or other foods, usually due to pesticide contamination of the soil. And some people eat a lot of rice as a dietary staple.
There are two ways to reduce the total amount of something. One is to choose a sample that contains less, and the other is to be exposed less frequently. Reducing the amount of rice you eat from every day to three days a week or once a week will be the same as eating rice with a lower amount of arsenic.
The fact that we cannot always eliminate toxic exposures is one of the reasons we also need to support our bodies in the ability to detox the chemicals we are exposed to (see my Toxic Free Body website).
Personally, I don’t eat rice. Occasionally I use Lundberg Sweet Dreams Brown Rice Syrup in a recipe. This is made from brown rice grown in California by an established organic farm.
I would stay away from cheap off-brand rice and stick with well-known organic brands such as Lundberg.
BPA linked to obesity in white children
White children exposed to high levels of bisphenol A are five times more likely to be obese than children with low levels, according to a study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The research is the first to link the chemical to obesity in children; previous studies reported links in adults and animals. Traces of BPA – used in some canned food and beverages, paper receipts and dental sealants – are found in virtually every U.S. adult and child.
Environmental Health News: BPA Linked to Obesity in White Children
In 2011, a study found that evidence of BPA in participants’ urine decreased by 50% to 70% after only three days of eating fresh foods, instead of eating canned foods that contained BPA. This tells me that BPA leaves the body quickly, so presence of BPA in the body is due to continuous exposure, rather than accumulation of multiple exposures over time.
There are many things we each can do to minimize our exposure to BPA from foods and beverages and other sources. I’ve put them all together in my free ebook How to Reduce Your Exposure to Bisphenol-A (BPA).
Bare Honey
Raw “treatment-free honey…fresh from the hive,” produced without chemicals, pesticides, antibiotics, GMOs, or any other treatments. Further, their equipment has never been exposed to any chemicals or pesticides whatsoever. “We have chosen to join a community of beekeepers that are breeding stronger bees rather than medicating weak ones. We are following a path of sustainable honey production. Working with the natural rhythm of our bees’ life cycle, we are able to produce a honey far healthier than the supermarket alternative. Our honey is completely free from the dangerous chemical and antibiotic residues used by most beekeepers today.” They have many honey products to choose from, from 2-ounce mini honey bears to an adopt-a-hive program. Honeys in glass jars are straight from the hive, fortified with pollen, or flavored with chilis, lavender flowers, and other good things.
I Can Breathe! Masks
A great selection of face masks developed and made by a woman with an adult onset lung disorder, to take control of her environment. Various masks have different purposes, including an organic cotton comfort mask that reduces exposure to particles like dust and pollen, a silk comfort mask also for particles, and a honeycomb activated carbon filter that reduces exposures to smog, smoke, ozone, diesel exhaust, fragrances, and particles (ideal for travel to strange polluted places…”effective for poor air quality infoors or on airplanes.”). And more! The website gives many reasons why YOU might want to use a face mask to protect your lungs and health.
Is Duck Brand Duct Tape Toxic?
Question from sttlove
Is the colored craft duct tape, DUCK BRAND toxic? My son likes to use it to make crafts. Apparently it is the in thing right now among kids his age. I called the company and they said the adhesive is both natural and synthetic rubber. The tape is made from polyethylene. Is the tape or the adhesive toxic for my son to breathe in while crafting with it?
Debra’s Answer
Polyethylene is not toxic to breathe. Natural rubber isn’t toxic to breathe.
There are many varieties of synthetic rubber with varying toxicities.
Please call the company back and ask them for a copy of their MSDS sheet for this product. I couldn’t find it online. Send it to me and I can better answer your question.
Vita Futura
An impressive selection of PVC-free shower curtains made from nontoxic PEVA plastic with more than two dozen different colorful designs! They also carry organic cotton towels.
A Scientist’s Crusade Against Household Toxics
After co-authoring scientific studies that helped rid children’s pajamas of flame retardants, including chlorinated Tris, Dr. Arlene Blum went on to become a mountaineer, leaving biochemistry behind. But while she was adventuring all over the world, Tris was staging a quiet comeback in other products.
New York Times: How Dangerous Is Your Couch
This article goes on and on for seven pages, but gives an insider’s view of the whole story behind toxic fire retardants in consumer products and why we need to avoid them.
How Should I Clean My Dryer Vent?
Question from Cheryl3
Hello Debra and all,
We’ve been told that dryer vents should be cleaned, otherwise they can be a fire hazard. We have been here seven years and clothes are beginning to come out a bit damp, so I think we need to do it. Though we were able to get at part of it with a long dryer vent brush, the type of dryer we have does not permit us to accees the entire area to be cleaned ourselves and my husband is leary of prodding any further, not wanting to damage the dryer etc. We plan to call in a company to have this done. However, knowing that duct cleaning is unnecessary and sometimes harmful,we’ve put it off. I’d like to know if there are any caveats to be aware of, or questions to ask when contracting with a company to just clean the dryer vent. Also, does anyone recommend such a company? We’re in Wesley Chapel, near Tampa. Thank you all so much for any ideas on this.
Debra’s Answer
I’ve never had my dryer vent cleaned so I don’t have personal experience with this, though your question has prompted me to take a look at my own dryer vent.
Here’s a good summary of how clogged dryer vents can cause fires and force your dryer to use more energy than necessary to get clothes dry: How to Clean a Dryer Vent
I would ask them if they use any chemicals or sprays in the cleaning. I recently had my air conditioner checked and they sprayed something in the air ducts without telling me, so just ask ahead of time and stand right next to them while they are working so you can stop anything that seems toxic to you.
Readers, and experience with cleaning dryer vents, and warnings?
In terms of regular maintenance, it’s important to clean the lint out of your dryer from the little lint basket every time you use it. That will keep the exhaust vent from getting lint build-up and reduce the need for cleaning.
Deck Stain
Question from kendra
Hello, I’m searching for least-toxic stain for decks and fence. I see that this question was asked on your website in 2008, but no new info since then.
One of the products that you recommended was Extreme Acrylic Wood Finish, which is now discontinued.
Does anyone have experience with these products, or others?
Debra’s Answer
Readers, any experience with these?
Baltimore Soaps and More
Truly unscented soaps, butters, scrubs, and balms, handmade by a woman who understands the meaning of the word. “I developed MCS in 2005 and now make unscented natural soaps from scratch. I don’t use any dyes or anything artificial. Body butters, lip balms, and bath teas too – all made without added fragrances in my scent free, smoke free, pesticide free home. Please warn MCS folks not to purchase handmade soaps from soapmakers who use essential oils or fragrance oils because their hands, molds, storage areas, packaging, etc. will all be fragrance contaminated. Although I add a variety of botanicals for beauty, variety, and skin loving properties, the lye process zaps 99% of the scent of anything I add (I note exceptions in my write-ups) and so most smell simply like a fresh bar of soap. I can no longer work outside of the home due to my MCS and so purchasing my soaps helps support my family.”
Natural Earth Paint
Eco-friendly paint kits using pure nontoxic earth pigments for adult artists and children. “Millions of years in the making,” these naturally-colored clays are collected from the ground, dried, crushed and sifted into pure pigment. The standard water-soluble children’s kit includes six natural earth colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue and brown), biodegradable mixing cups, complete directions, and nature-based activity ideas. Their oil painting kit–for artists of all ages who want to eliminate unnecessary toxics from their painting practice–includes the same six colors plus a 4 oz. bottle of refined walnut oil for mixing. Individual pigments (including white, black, and violet) also available for purchase. “This beautiful paint has greater UV resistance, longevity, purity, and luminosity than synthetic paints, and it yields a rich, unique luster on the canvas. Enjoy the satisfaction of painting with actual Earth while avoiding any harm to yourself, your child, or the environment.”
USAlpaca Company
Pachmana Alpaca Pillows are bed and nursing pillows made of 100% US organic cotton with 100% US natural alpaca fill, an organic, luxurious replacement for pillows usually made of toxic styrene. “Pillows are the worst offenders in the bedding industry because we breathe in their toxic out-gassing every night for hours. The Pachmana pillow allows your body to rest at night, because it has no toxins to fight off. It is as peaceful as the animals it comes from…I was so alarmed at the recent reports on toxins in nursing pillows and pillows in general that I designed a new company where we are using only 100% US organic cotton and only all-natural alpaca fill.” Alpaca fiber has a semi-hollow core, deterring dust mites, the leading cause of asthma and allergies in the bedroom. This porous alpaca fiber creates an extra insulation value for a constant balance of temperature when we are in contact with it. Unlike wool, alpaca does not contain lanolin, it is hypoallergenic and does not itch or prick like wool. Because alpaca is naturally fire resistant, no toxic chemicals are used. Lifetime guarantee. Buy this pillow once and you can send your pillow back at any time to have it adjusted, refreshed or get a brand new cover for only $25. They also sell organic cotton sheets and alpaca blankets made especially for them by Pendelton.
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Listen to my interview with USAlpaca Company Founder and Owner Robbin Martinelli. |
Persistent Odors in Toilet Bowl After Cleaning
Question from Cheryl3
Hi Debra and all, Fir persistent odors in the toilet bowl even after cleaning, do you think this would be a safe option?
Also, what about this (on Amazon) for inside the tank for both odor and hard water stains—-are they safe I mean?
ChemFree ToiletClean Non-toxic Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Are there any questions I should ask? Thanks again so much for any insight.
Debra’s Answer
Chem-Free actually looks like a good product. I have mineral deposits in my toilet that are difficult to remove, maybe I should get one…
Couldn’t find ingredients to evaluate the other one.
Toxic School Construction
Question from jo
Hi, Hoping that you and your readers can offer me some insight. My daughter is scheduled to start 1st grade next fall. The school she is supposed to go to has had some serious construction/renovation/additions. The odor was so overpowering this year that I pulled her out and had her go to an overflow school that she previously went to and that has had no construction. In the fall she will have no choice but to move to the school with all the outgassing. They are scheduled to do huge amounts of additional construction starting in jan 2013 and to continue through the summer, so no doubt the outgassing will be even worse when she is to start in the fall. My other option is to try and “choice” her into a school nearby. Unfortunately that school is a little less than 1/2 mile from a major highway. It is not inner city but more treed suburbia. But still that is a lot closer to highway pollution than I would prefer my 5 year old to spend 7 hours of each day. So how do I know which is worse? help!
Debra’s Answer
Well first of all, you do have a right to have your daughter have a safe environment at school, and you are right that new construction will be outgassing toxic chemicals, particularly since they probably are taking no precautions otherwise.
I would consider her regular school to be more toxic with the new construction, than a school without construction 1/2 mile from a freeway.
But could we think outside the box here? New construction is likely to make all the children sick to one degree or another. Could they do less toxic construction? Move classes to a different building? Could some parents get together and homeschool children until the new construction is done outgassing?
Go to the school board now and voice your concerns.
Minwax Oil-Based Wood Stain Marker
Question from Rachel Jones
I am looking for mcs safe housing. I found a really good place except that the landlord recently used a minwax oil based wood stain marker on a few areas that had been knicked (the wood on the walls). Three areas in all. It was done over a week ago. they don’t open the windows because corn is nearby and they are concerned about particulate debris. Do you know how long it might be til it is safe? They were small areas apparently but I smell it as I walk in the house. Is there a safe way to remediate it so I can live there? I have had bad experience with minwax floor finish in the past.
Debra’s Answer
It will eventually outgas. Heat will make it outgas faster. Since they are small areas, I would think you could take a hair dryer to those areas to speed drying time, but make sure you have ventilation and wear a mask or have someone else do it.
Oil Paint Still Toxic?
Question from Irene
I purchased a furniture set made mostly of birch wood (manufactured by College Woodworks), however, it was painted with oil paint. Two years passed since the purchase, and I can still recognize some smell coming from the paint. Is it toxic? Thank you for your answer in advance.
Debra’s Answer
It can take oil paint a long time to cure completely. If you are still smelling it, it’s still emitting chemicals that are no less toxic than they were two years ago.
Heat can make it outgas faster.
How do I know if Naturepedic mattresses REALLY are organic?
Question from amy
Debra so naturepedic claims to have organic mattresses……how do i know that these mattresses are truly organic? What questions should I ask the representative that I talk to, what should I look for. I made the mistake, not knowing about offgassing and last year purchased my son a typicaI mattress which i am sure is flame retardant. I feel terrible….I feel like I need to have him sleep in something else until I replace it, but I want to get it right this time. Please help!!!
Debra’s Answer
You know that Naturepedic mattresses are organic because they have certifications by independent third parties and display their certification certificates on their website (see www.naturepedic.com/certifications/).
They are a GOTS Certified Organic Mattress Manufacturer, which means that GOTS has examined the entire manufacture of their mattress and found it to meet their stringent standards from start to finish.
Note that Naturepedic displays ALL their certification certifications to substantiate their claims.
By contrast I just want to tell you a story. Recently I called a major mattress manufacturer who is making environmental and health claims about some of their mattresses. Their website does not substantiate the claim. I called them for more information about a claim they had made that part of the mattress material was certified to be free from hazardous chemical emissions. They had no certificate. It wasn’t just that it wasn’t on their website, they didn’t have the certificate at all. I was told that the certificate was issued to the manufacturer of the fabric. They didn’t even get it from the manufacturer. They wouldn’t give me the name of the manufacturer that held the certificate. Needless to say, I am not recommending this mattress to you.
This is how you tell if something really is what it claims to be. You ask for substantiation of claims. You look at the integrity of the company, their reputation, who’s recommending them.
Are There Any Safe Silicone Bakeware Products?
Question from Sarah
Are there any silicone bakewear products that are safe? What to watch out for? I saw a popsicle mold today advertising “made with ” polypropylene” Is this really safe? Presidents Choice brand. thank you!
Debra’s Answer
Silicone bakeware products have been discussed elsewhere on this site…but I wanted to answer this question because of the way it was asked.
“Silicone” is NOT “polypropylene.” They are two completely different substances.
Polypropylene is one of the safer plastics, if you are going to use plastic. It’s the plastic used to make plastic sandwich bags and food storage tubs. So if you are comfortable using those, feel comfortable using this popsicle mold.
Should you not use polypropylene? It’s not high on my list of the most important things to avoid, but if I have a choice to use some other material, I do.
Dichlorobenzene in Mothballs Affects Endocrine System
According to a new study by the Centers for Disease Control, girls exposed to high levels of dichlorobenzene had their first period seven months earlier than girls with lower exposure.
The age when a girl has her first period has fallen over the past century from an average of 16-17 years to 12-13 years.
This study is the first to link dichlorobenzene with the age of girls’ first period. In addition to mothballs, dichlorobenzene is found in solid blocks of toilet bowl deodorizers and air fresheners.
Read more at Environmental Health News: Early puberty? Girls exposed to household chemical menstruate earlier, CDC study finds
One BPA Exposure May Vanish as Paper Register Receipts Become Obsolete
Paper register receipts are on their way out, but not because they are toxic or waste natural resources.
Merchants want to move to a digital payment system so they can get more information about what we buy.
At least we won’t get BPA all over our fingers when we buy something.
Read more at Can Walmart, Best Buy and Shell finally kill paper receipts?
Fire Retardant in Polyurethane Foam Cushion?
Question from Ali
I have custom window seat cushion, which I had made in 2008. The insert is polyurethane foam, and I am concerned that it may be coated in chemical fire retardants. The fabric cover zips off, so theoretically I could replace the insert with an all natural latex one, but I’m wondering about chemical residues on the fabric. Do you know if washing will remove them? Is there any special soap or rinse that would work? I have heard vinegar can be effective but I’m not sure if that’s true. Or is the fabric permanently unsafe (it was very expensive handmade fabric, which is one of the main reasons I’m trying to salvage it)? Thank you for any advice you can offer!
Debra’s Answer
This is an interesting question.
I’m not sure that polyurethane foam purchased separately from a piece of furniture necessarily has fire retardants on it, as the fire retardant laws refer to the item not the materials it is made from. I can’t guarantee one way or the other.
As for removing fire retardants, I think it would be very difficult. Fire retardants, like water repellants, or wrinkle preventors, are designed to be present for the life of the fabric. If it could be washed out, then the fabric would no longer be fire retardant, or water repellant or wrinkle free.
Wish I could give you a better answer.
Roof Mold
Question from TerryAnn
Living here in the Northwest, we all get roof mold. I am very concerned about using any toxic products that would wash down into the yard and be around where my dog could walk through it. Even using a pressure washer to wash it off will result in all the gravel-y pieces from the roof being washed down into the yard, and I am certain that my roof shingles are made of toxic products. How can I get rid of mold on my roof without turning my backyard into a toxin zone?
Debra’s Answer
Good question!
I have no experience with this. Readers, any suggestions?
Toxic Materials in Baby Mattress?
Question from Hannah
So, I know you have addressed polyurethane quite a bit. But my question is regarding a mattress made by a company called Cotton Cloud, here in Portland, Oregon. They claim to use no flame retardants besides boric acid in some models. The particular model I purchased is wool, without Boric acid. However, it does have polyurethane foam core. The salesman told us that the poly foam is “untreated” and the entire mattress contains no carcinogens, chemicals or fire retardant treatments. It is wool, cotton and the foam. They do make a model with springs instead of foam. I don’t want anything toxic like polyurethane foam since this mattress if for my infant, and I have a 14 day return option to exchange for the (less firm) spring version. So, is it possible for the poly foam to be untreated? If so, is it still toxic? Also, the wool & cotton are not organic- so I am curious as to what they may be treated with.
Debra’s Answer
I can’t speak to those specific materials without more information, but I will tell you in general
Especially for an infant, I would get the purest materials you can afford.
Palm Visco mattress
Question from Jeanmarie
I was looking to purchase a mattress online and came across a mattress made of palm visco. It claimed to be “natural” but as you know that means nothing. I could not find any info on palm visco. Could you help me? I don’t want to regret my purchase.
Debra’s Answer
It looks to me to be a memory foam made with palm oil, a variation of the foams made with soy. I can’t find any information on this memory foam specifically, however these foams are usually made with standard polyurethane with only a small percentage replaced with the oil.
Unless I had more documentation, I wouldn’t trust this to be made from 100% palm oil.
Respirator?
Question from noel
Can anyone recommend a respirator for me. I am reacting to something in stores, but don’t know what it is. I tried the 3m 8577 mask, but that didn’t work. Thanks
Debra’s Answer
Respirators are a very individual thing. What might work for one person often doesn’t work for another.
Readers, if you want to, go ahead and post respirators you’ve used and liked, but Noel, understand they may or may not work for you.
West Nile Virus Survival Kit
West Nile Virus is in the news again as disease-carrying mosquitoes are are biting and people are dying. As a result, communities are spraying toxic pesticides and individuals are rushing to buy toxic mosquito repellents.
Here are two tips for protecting yourself and your loved ones.
1. Keep disease-carrying mosquitoes away with a nontoxic mosquito repellant.
2. Protect your body from toxic pesticide exposure with a detox program.
Sweating helps remove toxic pesticides from your body, so go outdoors and sweat instead of sitting in an air conditioned room, or go sweat in a sauna.
Also, chlorophyll will help remove pesticides, so eat lots of fresh greens and take a greens supplement, such as Touchstone Essentials Supergreens + D, a rich blend of barley grass, spinach and broccoli sprouts, with enzymes and probiotics to help your body digest all the goodness plus vegetarian Vitamin D concentrated from mushrooms.
And remember to drink lots of good, purified water.
Links
Centers for Disease Control: West Nile Virus
Omica Organics Shower FIlter
Question from Jay
Hi Debra, I was wondering if you had heard about the Omica Shower Filter. This is the link to check it out: http://www.omicaorganics.com/store/omica-shower-filter.html?___SID=U
I remember reading about shower filters being ineffective, or even harmful, because warm water would damage the filter and release chemicals in the filtered water. Do you know anything about this? What do you think about it? Thanks a lot.
Debra’s Answer
First I think that shower filters are an excellent idea. In fact, my father put together the first shower filter for me back in 1978 and then a friend of mine started selling that same model made from parts from the hardware store.
I don’t know anything about warm water damaging the filter or releasing chemicals into the filtered water. Chemicals WILL get released into filtered water hot or cold if you continue to use the filter media after all the pores are filled that have trapped the pollutant molecules. So it’s very important to change your filter media as recommended by the manufacturer.
Now regarding this particular shower filter, I wouldn’t buy this one. It says it “helps remove” fluoride, chloramine and chlorine and removes 100% lead.
Then it lists the filtration medium elements:
First of all, NONE of these media remove fluoride to my knowledge.
Second, I don’t like filters designed to remove BOTH chlorine and chloramine. It’s a waste of media. Your water has one or the other. It’s better to have all the media remove whichever one you have in your water.
Lacquer on Wicker Baskets
Question from Sheila
Hi Debra, I purchased some brown wicker baskets to use around my house for blankets and my child’s toys. I immediately noticed that they had a smell as soon as we got home. To me, odor means something toxic in most cases. I tried to let them air out on the patio for several days and they still had a strong odor. Is the lacquer they put on it toxic?
Sincerely,
Sheila
Debra’s Answer
“Lacquer on Wicker Baskets” is a pretty broad topic, as wicker baskets are made in many parts of the world and all kinds of things could be used to finish them. Odor isn’t always toxic, but it’s a good chance it is.
I always look for baskets that are as unfinished as I can find and no odor. I have managed to find quite a number over the years, so it is possible.
Is Citric Acid Safe to Use?
Question from Michele
I am going to can some tomato sauce in a water bath. The directions say I can add either citric acid or lemon juice. I was leaning toward the lemon juice but was concerned with a change in flavor, not exactly suitable for spaghetti sauce. Should I have any concerns with using citric acid?
Debra’s Answer
Citric acid is considered safe as a food additive and it occurs naturally in citrus fruits, however my concern about using it is an industrial product, versus the natural citric acid that would be present in lemon juice.
Here’s a description of how citric acid is produced as an industrial product:
Having never canned tomatoes myself, I was wondering why add either, and found a webpage where it says you can add bottled lemon juice, citric acid, or vinegar to can tomatoes in a hot water bath. It didn’t say how much you need to add, so I don’t know how it would effect the flavor. I don’t think your tomatoes will taste like lemon. You could add vinegar. Or use a different canning method.
Paints: Behr Premium Plus Ultra Paint and Olympic One
Question from SSM
Hi Debra, I learn so much on this site but ohe there is still much more to do.
Mainly I am writing to let you and other readers know of our ‘big goof’.
We succumbed and purchased Behr’s new Premium Plus Ultra paint, it has primer and paint in one and Home Depot swears it is low VOC. So after testing little jars of samples we bought paint in gallons, but when I poured the paint from the can into a roller tray I was totally overwhelmed by the smell of ammonia!
I’m not a kid, I’ve smelled paint and other things my whole life – – but paint that reeks of ammonia? No. My eyes burned, watered, head got a bit swoony – I poured what little was in the tray back and put the lid on it. Of course Home Depot has a nice sticker that says they won’t take it back. I have waited for summer to paint when weather was warm, Needless to say I was angry (and felt more than a little stupid)
So I came back here and searched – this time we went to Lowe’s and bought a quart of their Olympic One – – wow – – I smell nothing.
Debra’s Answer
Well, I am happy to hear of your experience with Olympic One, because that was mine too…nothing. Yet others have written in saying they are having a problem with that paint.
I am wondering if the manufacture of paint is THAT different from batch to batch that sometimes there is a problem and sometimes there isn’t and that is what we are running into.
Sorry you had that experience with Behr, but thanks for sharing.
Earthing Sheets and Quantum Calming Mat
Question from SSM
Hi Debra, I have heard about Earthing Sheets – along with a few other Earthing products for home. A Bau Biologist has suggested the use of such, and I am very curious. Now I see Carolina Morning’s Quantum Calming Mat and am curious about your thoughts on these particular items, as well as anyones’ experience with them. Thank you.
Sally
Debra’s Answer
I haven’t used either product personally, however I have nothing against them.
I’ve read the entire book Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever? and totally agree with the need for our bodies to be connected with the Earth’s electromagnetic and other force fields.
The most direct way to do this is to go lie down on the Earth, which I try to do on a regular basis. They recommend 20 minutes a day, I think, I don’t have the book right in front of me.
For me, I always prefer to do something that is as close to nature as possible rather than use an industrial consumer product to do something, which is why I haven’t chosen to use either of these myself.
But, as I said, I have no reason why you shouldn’t use them if you wish.
I know some of you have used these products. Please feel free to write in with your experience.
Water Filter to Remove Chlorine
Question from Amy E
I have very sever eczema and chemical sensitivities. Also I am breastfeeding an infant, and I am wondering what the best source of drinking water would be. (filter, distiller, botted etc?) I live in an apartment so a whole house filter is not an option. Also, our water has chlorine, not chloramine. Thank you.
Debra’s Answer
Based on the information you’ve given me, most any activated carbon filter will do.
I would suggest an undersink or countertop model that connects to your plumbling, not a canister-type because they don’t have enough filter media.
Also you should get a shower filter because chlorine is absorbed through your skin when you take a shower or bath.
That said, I strongly suggest you get your water tested to see if there is anything else in your water you should be removing.
Read more about all this at Debra’s List: Water: Filters and Debra’s List: Water: Testing
Toxic Tire?
Question from Cat
Hello, Yesterday my husband realized his tire was flat so he took my car to the shop with the tire in the trunk for repair. He then used my car to go to work. Today, when he went to pick it up he realized it was not able to be repaired so they mounted a new tire for him, so he could get to work. He put the new tire on the wheel in the trunk of my new car. As we were pulling out of the tire shop I became worried. The tire was in the trunk and I really couldn’t smell it, but he didn’t put anything down in the trunk of my new car and as we drove I worried that the fumes would collect in the trunk and seep into the cab of the car. I am newely pregnant and a bit paranoid. I made him vacume the trunk out and then I placed a blanket down in the trunk before taking the car shopping…should I be worried I was exposed to chemicals in the transpport of the tire and using the trunk after?
Debra’s Answer
Tires are made of synthetic rubber, which do outgass a fair amount of pretty toxic chemicals, including benzene, toluene, and xylene (and about seventy others). These chemicals can cause harm to developing fetuses. However, the amount you were exposed to makes a difference.
From your description, it sounds like you weren’t exposed to much emissions, if any, however I would stay away from tire stores, where there would be a lot of these chemicals in the air.
By the way, here is the full list of toxic chemicals found in tire emissions:
Well, the original got lost during one of my transfers from website to website. So here are some new updated lists:
Note 37: Volatile Organic Emissions from Automobile Tires
HEaLTHY BUILDING NETWORK: Avoiding Contaminants in Tire-Derived Flooring
HUFFINGTON POST: Scrap Tire Playgrounds Lighten Landfills, But Raise Cancer Fears
While I am all for doing things that help the environment, this is a prime example of how an action can be both green and toxic at the same time.
Young Living Essential Oils
“According to historical account from fifteenth century France, there was a band of thieves who anointed themselves with various aromatics such a cinnamon and clove, prior to robbing the homes of plague victims. The thieves never became ill and once captured were forced to relinquish their secret formula.” Today Young Living has created a whole line of household cleaners and personal care products that utilizes therapeutic grade essential oils to provide an effective natural disinfectant without the negative, harmful side effects of synthetic chemicals. It destroys not only harmful bacteria, but also viruses and other microbes, and is so safe for us to use that a warning label is not required. The line includes original Thieves essential oil, household cleaner, foaming hand soap, toothpaste and mouthwash, hand sanitizer, and lozenges. Young Living grows most of their plant ingredients on their own organic farms and makes a practice of sustaining the supply of the wildcrafted ingredients from which their products are made.
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Listen to my interview with Young Living Essential Oils distributor Jackie McLaughlin. |
Portable Water Filter for Backpacking
Question from Brittney
My husband & I are taking a 5-7 day hiking trip into the mountains in Washington state. We will have some access to creeks & lakes at a high elevation. I was wondering what a good portable water filter brand would be for that or sould we just use a camel pack or some kind of container? If you recommend a container, what would you recommend that we use? We have to pack light so something light weight, collapsable or something I could clip to my pack would be preferred. Thanks.
Debra’s Answer
I haven’t been backpacking for years, so haven’t researched this lately. Readers, what are your recommendations?
Best Toothbrush?
Question from Heather
I saw a query about emfs from a sonic toothbrush. I wanted to get a clarification if the emfs are due to the toothbrush being “sonic” or just being an electric toothbrush of any sort. Also does it matter if the electric brush is plugged into the wall vs. powered by batteries? Thanks so much, am in the market for better toothbrushing for my kids.
Debra’s Answer
I used a sonic toothbrush for many years because I believed it was the best method to reduce plaque.
However, about a year ago, I decided to try the method of toothbrushing recommended by my biologic dentist and it works even better. No electric or sonic toothbrush needed.
Dr. Behm calls it “The Secret”, short for The SECRET to HEALTHY GUMS or HOW to KEEP YOUR TEETH for the REST of YOUR LIFE!
This is what I do now and the condition of my teeth is better than ever!
Laundry Close to Bedrooms?
Question from Cecilia
Dear Debra, we are considering remodeling our home, and one of the things that I would like to do is moving my laundry room out of the basement. It seems that there is a nice possibility of doing this by putting the laundry in the second floor. A laundry with natural light and ventilation sounds really nice, but what about having the laundry so close to the bedrooms? Is there anything specific that would make you recommend against it, even before considering materials? Thank you! Cecilia.
Debra’s Answer
I totally understand! I used to have my washer and dryer down in the basement and never wanted to go down there to do the laundry. Now, in a different house, my washer and dryer are in the mud room next to the kitchen and it’s so easy to do my laundry!
I can’t think of a reason why not to have laundry next to a bedroom, but since I’ve never had that, there may be drawbacks I can’t imagine. Readers, please contribute your experience. I’ve seen washers and dryers in hallways behind folding doors. They would make noise so you wouldn’t want to run these machines while sleeping. Water probably will leak so you would want to place the washer and dryer on a waterproof surface.
Not thinking of anything else.
Readers?
Paint outgassing
Question from Shirley
Hi Debra, We painted 3 rooms in our house with YShield black paint ( it is from Germany and supposed low VOC and is to block emf’s wifi and cell phone coming into the home) I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and multiple chemical allergies and migraines so it was recommended to me by a couple of people and a dr to use this paint. You ground the black paint into an outlet so that the emf’s that come in get grounded. We painted over the black paint with Lifemaster Glidden Low VOC paint.
It was done 4 weeks ago and I still am reacting with a burning tongue, lungs and skin when I come into the house. Perhaps we should of primed over the black paint? I am not sure if I am reacting to the black paint or the low voc Lifemaster. Someone has said to prime over the walls with AFM safecoat paint. What do you know of this paint. Someone else said to use Mythic Paint or to hot box the house, bring in huge heaters and bring the temp up to over 100 degrees and bake the chemicals out of the walls. Help, Homeless in Ottawa.
Debra’s Answer
I’ve never used YShield paint so I don’t know anything about the protocol for covering with another paint that is a color that is more to your liking. But I’ll give you some general comments about painting.
1. Paint takes a couple of weeks to really dry, at least. Only a few hours to be dry to the touch, but at least several weeks to be “cured,” which is dry through and through. So when you paint another paint on top, it makes it more difficult to cure the paint underneath.
2. So now you have two paints that are not quite cured. I don’t know if you are reacting to one or the other or a combination of fumes from the two.
3. PAINTS ARE NOT DESIGNED TO BLOCK FUMES. So painting over your paint with another paint will not help. A sealant painted over may help, but then you have outgassing of the sealer, with more chemicals.
4. My favorite method is to use heat, however, I don’t know how that might affect the YShield paint.
I would start by calling YShield and see if applying another coat of paint might cause problems. And ask if you can use heat. Then I would use heat if that’s OK.
Glass Dharma
“The Original Glass Straw.” You’ll never buy another plastic straw again. These beautiful glass straws come with a life-time guarantee against breakage- if they do break, they will be replaced for free. The straws come in four different diameters and various lengths…you can even order a custom straw for your favorite glass. They also have straws with various colored glass dots, for identification and to keep them from rolling off the counter. And they supply right-sized cleaning brushes and hemp soft sleeves, so you can carry your glass straw wherever you go. I have a set and I love them!
HoneyBeGood Quilting and Supply
Quilting supplies—organic, fairtrade, and sustainable fabrics and thread, recycled batting and felt, and other supplies. Lots of colorful organic fabrics with interesting designs, batting and pillow inserts, long staple cotton thread in colors, patterns to make crafts…a great selection! “Karen is a long-time quilter with a passion for returning the art of quilting to a simpler, purer form, away from the harmful effects of conventional cotton to human and environment alike; away from the frenzy for mass-produced fabric that simply isn’t sustainable.”
Dental Implants
Question from audrey
I would like to know if anyone with mcs has had a dental implant – success or failure – meaning were you able to tolerate it or did it make you sicker. Thank you.
Debra’s Answer
Readers?
Are Japanese Electronics Radioactive?
Question from green-earth
Hi Debra, Do you think we should be wary of buying electronics from Japan because of last year’s nuclear disaster over there? I need to buy a cell phone soon, and I’m worried that it may be impossible to find a cell phone without parts that are made in Japan. Batteries are often made there, so is the glass on some smart phones. I’ve tried contacting companies to find out this information but they do not disclose where their parts are made or where their phones are assembled. What do you suggest?
Debra’s Answer
I just don’t know enough about radiation to know if any radiation that may be present would still be present after manufacturing the items you mention.
I personally am not concerned about this.
Remember that we have many exposures every day that we cannot control, which is why half of my book Toxic Free is devoted to detoxing and strengthening our bodies to better withstand those exposures we cannot avoid.
Of course, you could just not use a cell phone.
If you do use a cell phone, I am more concerned about the radiation generated from the use of it than the radiation that might be in the parts. I have a Pong case to protect me from radiation exposure from my phone.
Aromatic Cedar in a Closet
Question from Ingrid Ramsay
I am designing a closet for a client. She has a moth problem and I was going to back some of the walls with aromatic cedar. However, she was told that aromatic cedar is ‘toxic’. I think the wood dust is toxic, when the material is sawed, When it is installed maybe someone could be allergic to it ? Also does it really keep the moth’s larvae from eating the natural fibers ? What is the best natural solution?
Debra’s Answer
I found a great webpage called Wood Allergies and Toxicity that addresses the toxicity of all types of wood. It has an extensive “Wood Toxicity and Allergen Chart” that reports Cedar, Aromatic Red as an irritant to eyes and skin, but nothing more. Many people with MCS, however, react to cedar badly, so it’s often not recommended for that reason, but it’s not particularly toxic otherwise.
Aromatic cedar is a natural wood that has been used for natural moth control for who-knows-how-long. There is some question, however, as to whether or not it kills the moth larvae, which is what eats the wool. Technically, it’s not necessary to kill the moth larvae, only repel them away from your stored items. Cedar will do that.
In my book Home Safe Home (now out of print), I wrote that the best way to protect your clothing from moth larvae is to make sure they are not on your clothing when you put clothing in the closet.
Once you know your clothing is free from larvae, as a back-up you can use natural repellants. If you don’t want to use cedar, these plants are known to repel moth larvae:
If you can’t find cotton sachet bags, use cotton baby socks and fasten them shut with a safety pin.
Affordable Natural Comforters
Question from magda
Hi Debra! I have questions about comforters. I need healthy option without chemicals and fire retardant. I can’t afford organic comforters ( I need 4 so it’s a lot of money for me) what is the best option for me? Thank You 🙂
Debra’s Answer
White Lotus Home has great quality products at affordable prices. Here’s the webpage for their “green cotton” comforters: www.whitelotus.net/green-cotton-duvet/. They often have sales. You could get on their mailing list and you’ll be notified. I often announce them too but best to get on their list.
If that’s still too expensive, a couple of years ago when I was visiting San Francisco, I got a very inexpensive feather/down comforter at IKEA with a 100% cotton cover. Machine washable. $39.99. www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60133498/
There are no federal requirements for fire retardants on bed clothes, but check with IKEA to see if they add fire retardants. Things change so frequently that it’s difficult for me to keep up with companies, unless, like White Lotus Home, they have a dedicated “no-chemicals” policy.
Baby Formula
Question from anita
My newborn great grand son does not seem to get enough milk from his mom–any good formulas on the market to use as a backup?? thanks so much
anita wassweman
Debra’s Answer
Readers, I don’t have any experience with baby formula. Which have you tried and liked?
New Apartment
Question from Jay
Dear Debra, we are a military family moving from one place to another, and we are approaching our time to move again. I found a beautiful brand new apartment complex that just opened in april 2012, and the idea of living in a brand new place is very tempting, (especially if you think about the risk of finding bugs, which is a common issue in apartments). I was wondering what were your thoughts about it, considering that the place has probably not off-gassed yet at all, that everything is brand new, (carpets, cabinets, and wooden floor). Should I just move there and let it air out for a few days? Or do you think that an older place would be better? Thank you in advance for your advice.
Debra’s Answer
Let is air out a few days? No. New apartments need more than an airing out. They are filled with toxic chemicals from carpets and particleboard cabinets especially. You’d need to do a major makeover to make it healthy.
I would recommend an older apartment where materials have offgassed. You may be able to kill a lot of the bugs with a major heat treatment or other nontoxic method.
Okabashi Shoes
Question from Vicki in Oregon
Hi Debra Do you know anything about Okabashi Shoes
Debra’s Answer
Just looking at their website it says:
It’s great they are made from recycled material, but recycled doesn’t always mean nontoxic.
I called their customer service and left a message, but I’m not hopeful they will tell me the plastics or the anti-microbial agents.
This is the type of product I reject because it’s made of unknown materials that might be toxic in general and there are no specifics.
If I get an answer from them, I will post it here.
Sealant to Block Smell of Wood
Question from Chris
Hi Debra! I recently purchased a wool bed from Shepherd’s Dream and am waiting for it’s arrival. I have an ash platform bed from Bedworks of Maine. The slats are unfinished but I find the natural odor of wood bothersome. I have already put them in the sun and it helped some, but not enough. Can they be finished or sealed with the shellac you recommend or something else so I can’t smell the wood or would this compromise the mattress? (I also have a wool underpad to go on top of the slats so the mattress will not be directly against them). I cannot have any latex so those cushy strips are not an option either. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
Yes you can seal the wood to block the odor.
The most natural sealant is Zinsser Bull’s Eye Shellac. It is a natural product, liquified with volatile solvents. Once they evaporate all that’s left is the natural material. This is used as a sealant to block odors by many people with MCS.
Toxic Tea?
Question from Christal Janis
I love Tea but 99% comes from China or Japan. With the toxic conditions in China and the toxic air now in Japan, where can a person get safe tea? Thanks
Debra’s Answer
“China” and “Japan” are large areas with varying amounts of air pollution. While air pollutants certainly can travel around a country and around the world, there is more air pollution near the source of pollutants than far away. So the air quality in a city or industrial area is much more polluted that where tea is grown.
I suggest learning more about where teas are actually grown. Chinese teas come from five provinces. Yunnan, for example, is close to the Himalayas. The tea is grown at high altitudes where the air is very clean.
Japan produces almost exclusively green tea, which is almost all consumed right in Japan.
The largest tea exporter in the world is actually India. Other areas that produce tea are Ceylon and Formosa, East Africa, and Russia.
If you are a tea lover, I would suggest you forego the supermarket teas sold in teabags and head for the natural food store or a specialty tea shop or website, where they will know where their tea is grown.
Another option is to switch to herbal tea. Herbs can be grown almost anywhere. I grow mint in my own backyard for tea, and stevia to sweeten it.
weangreen
I’m always looking for glass food containers, and these are my current favorites. Cute, practical, and stackable, these tempered glass food containers have the purity of glass touching the food, and the practicality of a secure silicone lid that snaps on tight (and doesn’t rust like metal lids). Lids come in blueberry, raspberry, carrot, and pea, in sizes from 4 ounce to 16 ounce.
Cook on Clay Flameware
Flameware cooking vessels made with a “flameproof” clay that is designed to withstand extreme temperatures. These pots can go directly from the refrigerator to a hot oven and back again without cracking. Can be used on the grill and stovetop. “We make flameware pots for slow food aficionados, lovers of fine food, appreciators of quality kitchen tools, cooks, chefs, and everyone who enjoys the pleasures of cooking and eating. We believe that beauty does not belong on a shelf, and that cooking and serving in handmade pottery brings connection and beauty to the simple act of sharing a meal with family and friends.” Flameware pottery stays hot longer requiring less energy and “does not leach metals or other chemicals into food or the environment.” Microwave and dishwasher safe. Baked-on foods can be removed by simple scrubbing with soap and water.
Considering New Condo
Question from John
I have M.C.S. I’m considering moving into a new condo unit that is 3 years old. It’s furnished (model) and no one has ever lived in it. Do you think it’s “safe” at this age or would 5 years be significantly better. I re-injured myself last year through anesthesia and a new piece of furniture that emitted formaldehyde. I don’t want to take any more risks. What do you think? Thank you.
Debra’s Answer
Personally, I do not think that 3 years is long enough for a new condo to outgas. Five years would be better.
I don’t live anywhere not built before 1965. Why? Because that’s when they stopped building with real wood and switched to particleboard. Particleboard subfloors, particleboard cabinets, particleboard doors…Certainly it’s outgassed since 1965, but these buildings also have no charm, or beautiful solid wood floors and workmanship is usually shoddy.
Of course there are also toxic problems with renovated buildings. But 3 years is just too new.
If you reinjured yourself and you are very sensitive, I suggest considering doing something to remove toxic chemicals from your body. See my [Toxic Free Nutrition website]=http://toxicfreenutrition.com .
SmartSilk
Silk-filled cotton-covered hypoallergenic bedding: mattress pads, duvets/comforters, pillows and pillow protectors. Created by two friends who found they were allergic to dust mites who wanted something other than “synthetics or chemically treated products that were either too stiff, too heavy, or felt like you were sleeping on plastic.” They committed themselves to developing a chemical-free, all natural and luxurious bedding collection that would provide a comfortable, clean and uninterrupted night’s sleep. Millions of strands of silk—processed only with mild soap and water— are laid layer on top of layer. Silk does not harbor odors, acts as a barrier to dust mites and allergens, and is resistant to mold and mildew. It is naturally flame retardant, and naturally adjusts to your body to create the perfect temperature. Machine wash and dry. Adult and crib sizes. NOTE: the pillow contains a nontoxic polyester fiber fill at the very core, surrounded then by silk and cotton. All the other pieces are 100% silk and cotton.
Healthy Living in Florida
Question from Cathy
Hello, I have just purchased another of your books as I have found them so helpful through the years. My husband and I are hoping that when he retires in a year or so to move to a more healthy area.
I have allergies and chemical sensitivities. My allergy doctor says the mountains or seashore can sometimes be helpful. We have always loved Florida and are just starting to look at the west coast or perhaps the east around Titusville or surrounding areas. I hope Debra and other readers from Florida can chime in on this.
For one thing, and I read your updated report on how you live, how far from the coast do you think one can live, as the crow flies, to actually benefit from the clean sea breezes? I know when I walk on the beach my respiratory system feels better. I know we couldn’t afford a beach house, and we would be a bit worried of costs related to insurance and hurricanes. Any advice or cautions would be greatly appreciated.
Based on the weather records of the past several meteorologists share a common belief that the Clearwater area is in an advantageous position with respect to hurricanes. They call it a Native American blessing that has placed Clearwater in a strategic geographic location that has averted hurricane crisis to a great extent. The reason is this. If a hurricane must hit any one of the western cities of Florida, it must take a sharp turn going around the southern coast of Florida, which is rather an unusual phenomenon with hurricanes. This is why Clearwater has never had greater troubles with hurricanes.
Debra’s Answer
First let me say, about costs. Here is Florida the actual cost of houses is very low compared to other parts of the country. However, the insurance is very high by comparison because of hurricanes.
If you want to live close to the beach, do find out what the history of hurricanes are in that particular area. Where I live there hasn’t been a hurricane in I think 40 years or more. I’ve lived here ten years. Once it looked like a hurricane would hit, but it didn’t.
Just looked up about hurricanes in Clearwater. Here’s what it says on the Awesome Clearwater! website:
SmartSilk Bedding
Question from nancyk
What do you think of the new SmartSilk pillows, comforters, pads,etc. They are certified by the AAFA, which certifies a lot of things I don’t care for and the owner of Smart Silk agrees with me. I have a friend who got the mattress pad and adores it and it is washable in cold water.
Debra’s Answer
The description looks good to me: 100% silk fill, 100% cotton cover, no chemicals, no flame retardants, machine wash and dry…nothing toxic here and many benefits.
Has Post-It Notes Adhesive Formula Changed?
Question from Annie
I’ve been using Post-It Notes for years and never had a problem with them.
The other day I bought a new package and the notes had an odor for the first time. Did they change their adhesive?
Debra’s Answer
I’ve been using Post-It Notes for years too and always appreciated that they were nontoxic and odor-free.
Yet, this past week I too purchased a new package and it had an odor for the first time.
So I called 3M Customer Service to ask about the adhesive.
They told me that they now use three different adhesives on their various Post-It products.
One is the original adhesive, which is what is used unless otherwise stated. I looked at the MSDS for Post-It Notes and it says only “adhesive” and that no health effects are expected from inhalation.
Then there is a stronger adhesive for the Super Sticky Notes. Again not toxic.
Overcome by Fumes From Car Interior
Question from Renee’
I was in my husbands 2010 MKS lincoln yesterday after it had been parked in the direct sun. Upon getting in, the smell was uncomfortable to me and I had to open the windows while driving. After a few hours, I was severly tired and laid on the bed and slept for 9 hours and woke in a stupor with my asthma full bloom, headache and extreme exhaustion. Do I see a doctor or will this pass? My husband was not affected.
Debra’s Answer
First, NOBODY SHOULD GET IN A CAR THAT HAS BEEN SITTING IN THE SUN. Car interiors are full of synthetic materials that are outgassing toxic chemicals all the time, but when a car sits in the sun, it turns into an oven that causes even more toxic chemicals to be released, often to very high levels.
Before getting into a car that has been sitting in the sun, open both doors and allow air to flow through before getting into the car. It will be cooler if you do this, too.
It sounds to me like your body was overwhelmed by toxic fumes released from the car interior.
Your reaction indicates to me your body has a very high body burden, and this exposure pushed you over the edge into symptoms.
You could visit a doctor, but it’s likely he won’t recognize this.
Here is a list of the types of healthcare professionals who could help you.
Antimicrobial Toilet Seat Cover
Question from Maria Mag
I just purchased an antimicrobial toilet seat cover! It is plastic throughout. Are these safe to use? Will this affect skin at all?
Debra’s Answer
In order to answer this question I would need to know
You can try to get this information from the manufacturer.
Though there are different types of plastics and antimicrobials, as a general rule I try to stay away from them, especially if I can’t find out what type they are.
Controlling algae overgrowth in pond
Question from Gayle
I live on a pond that is experiencing a huge overgrowth of alge and vegatation. I can’t help if this is due to the extreme heat that MI has experienced , and the lack of rain. The homes around the pond wish to “treat” it. Is there a company whose products you promote as being “environmentally friendly” and as “nontoxic” as can be for this type of treatment? Thanks so much, Gayle
Debra’s Answer
Readers, any suggestions?
Can I absorb fluoride through my skin?
Question from Jeff Mei
I am trying to find information about skin absorption of fluoride in bath water and laundry cloth contacting with skin. I got conflicting infomation. Now we are drinking and cooking with spring water to reduce the fluoride exposure. But we also need to take a shower and do the lawndry for the cloth using fluoride city water. We can not find a perfect whole house water filtration system since both alumnum and bone char are not perfect. We want to avoid a whole house water filtration system if we can convince that fluoride will be entering into human body by skin.
Debra’s Answer
About eight years ago, I did a lot of research on fluoride because they were about to add it to our local water supplies.
Here are some things I can tell you from that research.
The form of “fluoride” in drinking water today is not naturally occurring sodium or calcium fluoride, but fluorosilicic acid, a liquid that is a by-product of fertilizer manufacturing. Fluorosilicic acid itself is corrosive and highly toxic. It’s Material Safety Data Sheet warns “do not breathe vapor…do not get in eyes [or] on skin”.
And fluoride itself can be absorbed through the skin. There are many references. Just google “skin absorption of fluoride.”
Health Effects of Burning Incense
Question from Josh
I haven’t read your latest book “Toxic Free” but in “Home Safe Home” you’ve written about candles but not incense. Have you investigated incense burning and have you ever spoken about it?
Debra’s Answer
I investigated incense many years ago but haven’t written about it in a long time.
Basically, anything you burn produces combustion by-products, which is a combination of toxic gasses and particles. The more completely it burns, the fewer the combustion by-products and the safer it is to breathe.
An example is firewood. Freshly-cut firewood smokes a lot when it burns, “seasoned” firewood smokes very little.
Any kind of smoke is harmful to breathe.
With incense, the point is that it smokes, so there would be combustion by-products that are harmful. Would it be less because it’s natural? Well, tobacco is natural and breathing tobacco smoke causes cancer.
That was my logic in the past. Now we have studies.
What is faux suede?
Question from Lisa
What is faux suede?
Debra’s Answer
Faux suede is a man-made fabric used in clothing, footwear, upholstery and accessory items. It is designed to look like real suede, which is a very soft leather made from animal skins.
Faux suede is made from 100% polyester, which is a plastic that can be woven into threads. To make faux suede, manufacturers use threads that are close to the weight and consistency of leather fibers.
Though polyester is only slightly toxic, it does outgas and can cause skin rashes that can be quite severe.
How Can I Get an Analog Smart Meter?
Question from Mary in Tallahassee
I have complained to my utility about smart meter on my house and asked for an analog device. The utility has responded by agreeing to disconnect the transmission of the meter and having a person come to read the meter. When I pressed for an analog device, the utility said that they are no longer available anywhere. They said that digital is used worldwide. I asked for a used one, but they said that they simply are unavailable and that our utility system is too big for analog. What literature can I send them on the digital issue? How can I get an analog device? I understand that in California they are agreeing to analog for people who refuse digital smart meters.
Is it enough to get the smart meter transmission suspension? I thought from reading this blog that the digital appliance in itself was a hazard even if its transmission is suspended.
Debra’s Answer
Readers? Any advice or experience?
Can I contain the smell of latex?
Question from Nancy
I bought a Natura latex mattress over a month ago. It has been airing in a room with the window open, a fan running and the door closed. I find it still has an odor and I am sensitive to it when I go in the room. My nose itches and my chest hurts. Should I persevere and keep trying to air it? Is there a barrier cover I can purchase in Canada to block the smell?
Debra’s Answer
I find that latex has a natural odor that I personally cannot tolerate and it can last for years.
When I was a child my grandmother had a latex sofa that had a “funny smell” all through my childhood. Many years later when I smelled latex, I recognized that’s what it was.
As far as a cover, anyone have experience containing the smell of latex?
Alkyd Polyurethane Wood Finish
Question from brandy
My father in law just made a bed for my daughter and finished it with alkyd polyurethane. We have had it sitting in the garage for a month, and then outside in the sun for another month and I find it still smells. I’m wondering if it is dangerous or toxic at this time. If something smells, does that mean VOC’s are still being emitted? I’m considering sanding it down and putting something different on. Is this necessary? What would you recommend?
Debra’s Answer
Different types of wood finishes have different curing times.
But after two months, this should not have an odor.
My understanding is that if it has an odor, then fumes of some kind are being emitted or you wouldn’t be able to smell them.
If it is completely dry to the point where it can be sanded and it is still bothering you, I would remove the finish and apply something else.
Cotton Sateen Sheets
Question from Lana
Dear Debra, My question is about bedding. I’ve always bought 100% cotton sateen sheet sets. I never bought wrinkle free. Is there a chance that they still could have been treated with formaldehyde? I’m questioning cotton sateen wording. Is flannel and knit the only safe option? Thank you so much. Lana
Debra’s Answer
Sateen is a type of fabric that has a certain weave.
It is a cotton fabric with a luster like silk satin.
Sateen starts with long-fiber, combed or carded cotton, which is mercerized to bring out the sheen. Mercerization involves soaking the fiber in a sodium hydroxide (lye) bath and then in an acid bath. None of these substances remain in the cotton after processing. Mercerization makes the cotton fiber stronger and more easily dyed, and also adds a luster to the fibers.
I think you are fine with sateen sheets. I’ve never heard of chemical finishes being used on sateen.
Fragrance Oil
Question from Lana
Dear Debra, I am questioning diaper cream that I have been using on my precious little bundle. We use cloth diapers, so I bought cloth diaper safe cream “CJ’s butter”. It has Fragrance oil as one of the ingredients. Oil makes me think essential oil, but it doesn’t say that, it says fragrance. Is this the big red flag for me to toss it? What is fragrance oil? Thank you so much as always, Lana
Debra’s Answer
My understanding is that “fragrance oil” is petrochemical and toxic.
“Essential oil” is the naturally fragrant oil from plants.
I don’t use any products with “fragrance oil” on the label.
Spot-X Hard Water Stain/Spot Remover
Remove the most stubborn hard water stains and spots, salt water stains and spots, acid rain spots, calcium deposits, lime, scale, silicone buildup, soap scum, concrete stains and more.with this simple powder made from 100% ground Juglans Regia sea shells. I use this myself to get the hard water spots off my glass shower doors and the mineral deposits in my toilet. Can be used on windshields, windows, shower doors, tile, porcelain sinks and bathtubs, glass cookware and dishes. Website gives many uses.
Cancer Radiation Treatment and MCS
Question from Bonnie Johnson
I am about to start radiation for breast cancer after a lumpectomy. The surgery will be tuff enough but have had others so I know how to handle things. I was wondering if anyone out there has dealt with the radiation issues with MCS.
Debra’s Answer
Readers?
Toxic-Free Massage Tables
Question from Mary M
Hi Debra, Found your site while searching for toxic-free massage/hypoallergenic tables (I’m changing careers). Difficult to find toxic-free massage table information. Could you please comment on “healthy” massage tables [preferrably not made in China]. Thank you very much.
Debra’s Answer
Ahhhh massage tables! I love massage, but not the tables.
I have my own massage table that I bought used about twenty years ago. But it is like most others: wood frame with polyurethane foam and a vinyl cover. Mine is pretty outgassed now, but still I pile natural fiber blankets on top so when I lay on it there is no contact with the vinyl.
Then I top everything with cotton flannel sheets.
If I needed to buy a new massage table today, I would probably do some research about what the requirements are for padding and see what else I could come up with. Wool felts maybe. And then replace the cover.
Readers, any suggestions on where to buy or how to make a toxic free massage table?
Nontoxic Formica Sealer
Question from jko
I have just moved into a house with new formica countertops – cream colored. They stain very easily, and I’m spending a ton of time and elbow grease removing the most innocuous substances from them. Can you recommend a good food-friendly product that will “seal” them and make them easier to clean? Thank you.
Debra’s Answer
Readers, any suggestions?
Toxic Fire Retardants May Create Deadlier Fires
Question from Michelle
Found this today while looking for health effects of brominated polystyrene.
For those that argue that flame retardants increase survival rates of fires, think again… http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=flame-retardants-may-create-deadlier-fires
Any way, Debra, I love your website and all your resources. I would not be exaggerating that your website has become my got to place for MCS info.
Thank you, Michelle
Debra’s Answer
You are very welcome. Thanks for sending this article.
Readers, please always send me anything like this you think I should see. Your eyes and ears really help me gather all the information that needs to be passed along.
Love Latex Mattress But Is it Toxic?
Question from Celestine
I just got a latex mattress, used, that was said to be organic. That probably just means it is not synthetic. It is sublimely comfortable. I slept an extra hour with no wakeup in the night. However, I’ve been told that the latex is extracted with toxic chemicals! And that these stay in the latex and do affect people. This morning I had a mild headache and a runny nose–which are not things that usually happen with me. I am not prone to allergies. If it is a case of toxins in the mattress, any idea if there is a type of barrier cloth that would keep it from affecting me? I really would like to keep this mattress if I can. For one thing, it is enormous and extremely heavy–took three men to get it up to my room. But it is also metal-free, which I wanted. Thanks, Celestine
Debra’s Answer
I totally understand your dilemma. Latex is very comfortable, but not everyone can tolerate it. I can’t sleep on a latex mattress or pillow because of the natural odor or latex, but that doesn’t mean it’s toxic.
With regard to the organic and toxic chemicals part, I’m working on sorting out about organic latex. And yes, some latex does use toxic chemicals in processing. But we can’t make generalities with this because different latexes are processed in different ways.
My suggestion to you would be to go back to the manufacturer and find out about any toxic chemicals used in their organic latex. Nothing to be concerned about if no toxic chemicals were used.
Your reaction may be simply to latex itself. You could try a barrier cloth mattress cover, or several layers of blankets.
Steel Beds
Question from tracigw
Are steel beds less toxic overall than beds made of other materials (wood or foam-covered fabric)? It seems like the toxicity would come primarily from lacquer. I have no chemical sensitivities, but would like to create as chemical-free home environment as possible, as we have young children. Thank you!
Debra’s Answer
Steel beds are less toxic than wood and especially fabric-covered foam.
Wood is fine if you use a nontoxic finish on it.
Steel generally has a baked on finish that is not toxic after it is baked on.
The first bed I had when I was creating my first nontoxic bedroom was the steel frame of a roll-away cot, with a pile of folded washed cotton thermal blankets for the mattress. A bed doesn’t have to be that extreme today because we now have natural mattresses, but a metal frame of any kind is a good choice.
Ten Toxic Chemicals Associated with Autism
There’s a commercial running on television–I just saw it the other night–that says one in 110 children are affected by autism spectrum disorder. This morning I received a newsletter that says last month, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) now affects 1 of every 88 American children — a 78% increase from just ten years ago.
To guide a research strategy to discover potentially preventable environmental causes, the Children’s Environmental Health Center (CEHC) has developed a list of ten chemicals found in consumer products that are suspected to contribute to autism and learning disabilities.
The list was published in Environmental Health Perspectives in an editorial written by Dr. Philip J. Landrigan, director of the CEHC, Dr. Linda Birnbaum, director of the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), and Dr. Luca Lambertini, also of the CEHC.
The top ten chemicals are:
- Lead
- Methylmercury
- PCBs
- Organophosphate pesticides
- Organochlorine pesticides
- Endocrine disruptors
- Automotive exhaust
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
- Brominated flame retardants
- Perfluorinated compounds
My personal opinion is: why wait for science? If these chemicals are suspected of causing autism, why not assume they do and remove them from our homes and and the bodies of autistic children?
