The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has a new official label for certified “biopreferred” products that will start appearing on products in the next few months.

The idea is to help environmentally conscious consumers find “certified biobased” products that are “composed wholly or significantly of biological ingredients—renewable plant, animal, marine or forestry materials. The new label indicates that the product has been certified to meet USDA standards for a prescribed amount of biobased content.” The seal will on products from makeup to household cleaners.

Initially, the minimum amount of “renewable ingredients” required to qualify was 51 percent. That makes sense to me. A majority. However, due to objections from vested interests, when the label is introduced, products need to contain only 25 percent renewable ingredients.

The good news is that the label will list the exact percentage of the product’s renewable ingredients so you can choose if a product is bio enough for you.

Read more at TakePart Decodes the USDA’s New ‘Green’ Product Label

Question from Angelique

The exterior of our house badly needs painting. We live in Arizona. This is the “open window” time of year. Summer is the “everything offgasses fast in the heat and keep your windows closed” time of year. I was thinking that summer would be a good time to paint because everything would dry very fast and the sun would really bake everything, but then I wonder what kinds of problems I might have with paint fumes getting inside the house and getting trapped there. Also, I’ll be going away for a week in June. I don’t know if it’s better for the painting to happen when I’m gone, or if I should be here to supervise. (They don’t just have to use my products, but also they have to use brand-new equipment for our jobs.) I haven’t started researching paints yet. Any ideas would be welcome!

Debra’s Answer

Must be time to start painting, because I got this question from two people this week!

I’ve had mixed experiences painting the exterior of my house. Logic tells us that because the paint is outdoors, it would smell less than when painting indoors. But that is NOT true.

I once painted the exterior of my house with a natural paint that had strong natural odors and I had to leave my house for three days.

So in response to your question, my suggestion would be to

As for paints, readers, what exterior paints have you used and liked?

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Question from chorvath24

We have a 1 month old, and I wanted to purchase a new fridge and found a great deal on a floor model. Would this be safe to have in the house and use knowing what we know about plastics and off gases? I think this would be a better option because it was out of its packaging and opened and closed often as it is a floor model. We would be storing breast milk in there and we would like to know if its safe.

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

Floor models will be more outgassed than refrigerators right out of the box, however, I can’t tell you if it is “safe” because different manufacturers use different materials and they all take different amounts of time to outgas.

I think if you are storing your breast milk in glass, it would be unlikely plastic emissions from the interior of the refrigerator would get into the milk if the bottle were well sealed.

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Question from citigirl

Hi Debra, I’m researching cloth diapering and am overwhelmed. Clearly the best option is cotton diapers with a wool cover, but wool is expensive, needs extra care, isn’t good for long car rides, and is not so friendly for babysitters, daycare, etc. The all-in-ones or pockets are more like disposables but all have PUL.

I read your old post mentioning that diaper covers could be made from polyethylene. I can’t find any that are, though.

If it’s between “green” disposables like Nature Babycare vs. cloth with PUL covers, which is safer for my baby? For the purposes of this discussion I’m not concerned with the environmental impact, only the health impact.

Also, you mentioned in your Gdiapers post that they are made from a safer PUL. How do I know what other diapers might use that safer PUL? (I’ve tried Gdiapers and don’t like them.) Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I couldn’t find a post of mine where I said diaper covers could be made from polyethylene.

Regarding the safer polyurethane, you would just need to ask if the PUL was MDI food grade polyurethane–that’s the safer one.

If your choice is between Nature Babycare and PUL covers, based on the Nature Babycare description, I would go with Nature Babycare. I don’t see anything toxic about the materials they are using, and their plastics are biodegradable.

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Question from JAR

I have severe MCS. We need to have the exterior of our house repainted. The original paint on the house is standard Benjamin Moore oil-based with biocides. We live in Southeast Texas, where it’s very humid. Can you help us find a paint that will be safe and that will work on top of the original paint?

If we have to order paint, how can we see and make a decision about color?

Thanks, JAR

Debra’s Answer

Readers, what exterior paints have you used and like for people with severe MCS?

As for colors, you can get color swatches, but I would also get a small sample of the paint to test before you commit to many gallons to paint the entire house.

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Question from n rose

Does anyone know about the safety of Lodge Cast Iron cookware (sold at Wal mart). I have used stainless for years, and wanted to get a cast iron pan. What should I be wary of? The mfg process says it is seasoned with a special soy oil and baked at high temp.

Any recomendations?

Debra’s Answer

I’m fine with Lodge Cast Iron and have included it on Debra’s List.

In fact, I recommend this brand because many other (often brandless) cast iron pans are “seasoned” with paint that chips off. See Cast Iron Skillets Made in China.

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Question from Ronda

Hi Debra – First let me say how happy I am that I can always go to your website to ask a question or find an answer. You are providing such a great and valuable service.

I’m looking for 2 twin size mattresses for my kids. All of the wool ones that I’ve found on different websits are out of my budget. My husband doesn’t like he futon option becase he thinks they are uncomfortable.

We have a place by us in California that makes their own mattresses called Custom Comfort. They have a page talking about their green design. I was going to talk to them about a cotton mattress because they don’t seem to offer wool.

Here is what they say about the fire retardants. What do you think about this? Inherent FR barrier Materials: In keeping compliant with FR regulations set forth by the government we use an inherent patented FR barrier which is atypical of the FR chemistry used in most mattresses. Its inherent properties make it safe both for the environment and for the consumer.

Debra’s Answer

I think it’s great that you want to buy your mattress from a local business and more local businesses should offer them.

However, they need to tell you what the fire retardant is and all other materials used in the mattress. There are a number of ways now to meet the federal regulations with less toxic substances and materials.

DON’T RELY ON UNSUBSTANTIATED CLAIMS. If the promotional material doesn’t tell you ASK. If you get the info and don’t know what the substance or material is ASK ME.

You might also ask them if they will build a mattress to your specifications.

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Wal-Mart is banning polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs, a class of compounds used since 1976 as flame retardants in such products as electronics, furniture, sporting goods, pet supplies, curtains and toys, sofas, cameras and child car seats. In a recent notice to suppliers, the company said it would begin testing June 1 to make sure products do not contain PBDEs.

This Washington Post article tells more about how various retailers are taking the initiative to ban chemicals of concern and the difficulties our federal government faces in getting through old regulations that prevent them from banning these chemicals.

The Washington Post: Wal-Mart bypasses federal regulators to ban controversial flame retardant

We should encourage these businesses and others to continue to refuse to sell toxic chemicals, one by one if necessary.

Question from lenare764

My 25 month old son’s body has a hard time ridding contaminants which has resulted in toxicities of arsenic and antimony from fire retardants. Dr. Sprotts told me to try http://www.offgassing-mattress-wraps.com/mattress-wraps.htm for larger beds but I remember you said they wouldn’t confirm the safety of their product after your 5 attempts to reach them. Have they ever gotten back to you about their safety? What is your opinion on the safety of these for a sponge like my son? I would have to max out my credit card to buy a new organic mattress – but I’ll do it if its safer than polyethylene for him.

Thank you so much.

Lena

Debra’s Answer

I don’t remember saying that I contacted this company 5 times and they didn’t respond. But I will answer your question about polyethylene.

Polyethylene is considered to be one of the safer plastics. It is used for waterproofing on Naturepedic mattresses, and I have talked with them at length about its safety. So I have no objection to polyethylene wraps.

Your choice is between an organic cotton mattress that is not waterproof, which would be 100% natural, or a waterproof organic cotton mattress (the Naturepedic mattresses use polyethylene-I’ve smelled it and it had no odor), or your polyethylene wrap (which I haven’t smelled, so can’t comment). I do know there are various types of polyethylene, and some may have more odor than others.

Those SIDS-prevention mattress wraps are very highly regarded. I have never heard of any problems with toxic exposure from using them. That doesn’t mean there are none, but I hear about a lot of toxic products, and this has not been one of them.

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Question from Anlina

I know this has been discussed here in the past, but I’m wondering if there’s any updated research or more recent comments. I’m thinking of getting a Vitamix; I’d only use it to make smoothies. My only reason for getting it would be for the increased bio-availability of the food. But some nutritionists think the blender’s fast speed may cause more oxidation of the foods, so the fact that the cell walls are ruptured would actually make them less nutritious than if not blended. I’d appreciate your comment on this, Debra. Would you recommend (or trust) any cheaper brand with only a ½ hp motor to make equally nutritious smoothies? Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I myself have a Vitamix and am very happy with it.

I purchased it because I was having difficulty making smoothies at all in other blenders I tried–they just didn’t break down the food even to the level of smoothness.

If you go to any commercial place that makes smoothies, they all have Vitamixes or similar high-horsepower blenders.

If you are making smoothies with ice or frozen fruits, it’s been my experience that a regular blender just won’t do it.

As to your question about oxidation, oxidation is an irreversible process by which oxygen in the air combines with nutrients in food, a process that makes the food rancid. A good example of oxidation is when an apple turns brown after you cut it.

So let’s use logic here. When you cut an apple, only the cut surfaces oxidize and turn brown. If you cut the apple in two, that would be less cut surface than if you cut the apple into ten pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more surface area there is and so more oxidation.

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Question from Breathegreen

Hi Debra I need to purchase plantation shutters for a bedroom. I had mcs and need a non toxic alternative so that there is no off gassing! Can you help? Thank you Amie

Debra’s Answer

The choices of material for plantation shutters are polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic (also called “vinyl” or “fauxwood”) or solid wood finish with stain or paint, or unfinished.

You want to not get the vinyl or fauxwood shutters because these are plastic and can outgas.

The wood shutter will be more expensive but less toxic.

Prefinished paints and stains are applied and then baked on. There may be residual vapors that continue to be released when you buy these new. How long they might outgas depends on how long it’s been since they were finished, and how well they were cured in the baking process. You can leave them outdoors or bake them yourself in an enclosed room to finish releasing emissions.

Or you can purchase the wood shutters unfinished and leave them unfinished or apply your own less toxic paint.

Question from Angelique

We have mysterious grease spots on our carpet. At least, my husband says they are grease, and probably caused by the people who installed our pool table. They actually feel kind of hard. My regular products didn’t do anything for them.

What can I use that is safe?

Debra’s Answer

I did a bit of research on this and the correct method depends on the type of material used to make the carpet. My best recommendation is to contact the manufacturer of the carpet and then evaluate the toxicity of the recommendations.

Personally, the best thing I can say is replace the carpet with less toxic flooring.

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Question from deanna96

Debra,

I posted a few days ago about the cleaning solution that Chem-Dry uses when cleaning carpets. I have found another company that says they use a mixture of citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium from a product they buy. Here is the link to the product they use: www.jondon.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=30963. There is also a link to the MSDS sheet. What di you think of this?

Thanks,

Deanna

Debra’s Answer

This product looks fine to me.

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Question from hanahmeg

I’ve been looking for new bedding for our new king size bed. Obviously it is not cheap, especially for organics. Is it possible that over time, and plenty of washing, that non-organic bedding could lose it’s harmful toxins? We purchased a bio-green (not organic, but non toxic) memory foam bed, and would like to keep everything non toxic, but also I am on a budget. Are there any bedding brands that maybe are not organic, but are at least low on harmful toxin levels?

Debra’s Answer

Nonorganic cotton sheets do not contain residues of pesticides. They are removed during processing.

However, nonorganic cotton sheets that have permanent press finishes emit formaldehyde. So you want to get plain cotton percale sheets, cotton flannel, or cotton jersey sheets.

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Question from LaniH

A remediation contractor sprayed two applications of Microban disinfectant in my ductwork (supposedly to help removed loose fiberglass that had been sucked into ductwork). When the heat was turned on and the house shut up in the fall, I became sick and had to leave my house within days and haven’t been back. My theory is that the Microban coated the ductwork and is breaking down as the heat passes through the ducts. My husband and son feel fine in the house but we have started looking for a new house to buy because I can’t live there. Do you have any idea how I can get this junk out of my ducts so that I could possibly live there again?

Debra’s Answer

It might burn out using the heater. In the past, I’ve contacted manufacturers to find out how to remove various substances. I suggest you do that in this case.

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Question from Patty

Does anyone have any recommendations for removing the fragrances that are from natural essential oils in a home that I am considering purchasing? The owner is now using only fragrance free products per my request but the fragrant odors still permeate the home. Has anyone had success in removing these fragrances to make a home completely nonfragrant? Thank you

Debra’s Answer

Readers, any experience with this?

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Question from rayrozen

There’s always been a lot of hoopla around using borax, but increasing studies are showing that it’s not all that non-toxic!

Please note I am in no way connected to this article except for the fact I think it is a great article!

Check out this article at

www.enviroblog.org/2011/02/borax-not-the-green-alternative-its-cracked-up-to-be.html

here is the text of the article:

Borax: Not the green alternative it’s cracked up to be

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Liv

I just bought many organic cloth diapers. It has a tag that states: Outer 100% polyester, Inner 100% organic cotton.

However, now I know that PUL is considered not safe for babies. I wonder how it is transferred to the baby. I mean, is it by outgassing? They don’t smell bad and besides, for maximum absorbency they recommend to wash them 5 times prior to use. Is it by leaching?

If the PUL is not next to my baby skin, is it still harmful? The diaper is the organic BumGenius cloth diaper. I cannot afford replacing them to just organic cotton diaper! I have also read that since the polyurethane is veeery thin it is not really harmful and they even mention PUL is breathable. Is that correct? By the way, I didn’t read that in BumGenius page but in some other webpages I found browsing.

Thanks!!

Debra’s Answer

First of all, polyester is not PUL. So if the label says polyester and organic cotton, that’s not PUL.

PUL is Polyurethane Laminate (read more about it at Q&A:Information on PUL fabric.

Soft plastics outgas, so baby can breathe the fumes and they can be absorbed through the skin. If the plastic is toxic, they are breathing and absorbing toxic fumes. However, again, polyester is not PUL.

Polyester itself has a fairly low toxicity, however, all polyester fabrics are treated with a formaldehyde resin that does not wash out. Since polyester is not waterproof, I’m not sure why they are using it with organic cotton.

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Question from deanna96

Debra,

Many mainstream companies are claiming to be less toxic and eco-friendly. Two that I have been researching are Rowe

http://www.rowefurniture.com/about-us/eco-rowe.html

and Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams (see their final option for the eco-down cushion)

http://www.mgbwhome.com/mgconstruction.asp

I am having a hard time finding any non-toxic sofas for less than $10,000 and was wondering what you thought of these.

Debra’s Answer

Both of these have a lot of good features, but the problem from a toxicity viewpoint is the filling material for the cushions. Though some of the polyurethane foam is replaced with natural materials, it’s still basically polyurethane foam. You might ask them about emissions and see what they are.

Another possibility would be to get them to encase the cushions in some material that would block any fumes from the foam. This might be cotton barrier cloth, a sheet of polyethylene or foil encased in polyethylene, which would block the fumes for sure, if there is such a material. Of course, this would be inside the cushion, around the filling but inside the cover.

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Question from Elliotsmom

I’m trying to rid my house of flame retardant-treated polyester filled bedding, pillows, mattress pads, etc. I’m very frustrated that the only options I can find are extremely expensive. While I feel it is important to switch to bedding without these toxic chemicals, I don’t have it in my budget to spend several hundred dollars on a single mattress pad. Do you or anyone out there know of any sites or stores that offer wool, cotton or other material untreated with flame retardants that won’t break the budget? Maybe someone should open a web store that specializes in affordable eco-friendly products. Currently, it seems “going green” is only for the rich…

Hoping for a good night’s sleep!

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Readers, any suggestions?

I haven’t checked prices recently.

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Question from exerphys

I have been searching for non toxic toy boxes. So far most have MDF. I have found a few that are solid pine. Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions.

Debra’s Answer

Try an unfinished furniture store or build one yourself.

Readers, any other suggestions?

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Question from LauraPR

Hi Debra and other readers,

Thank you for having this website. I have been looking for a good bookcase/toy storage solution for my kids room. Finally found somebody here who custom makes bookcases for schools and libraries, they are going to have one made for us from birch wood. I asked about the finish because humidity here where we live is always high and, as much as I love unfinished wood, mold can be a problem. They said they usually use polyurethane as a finish. Is that something that is safe to have in kids room?

Alternatively, I can ask them to just leave the wood unfinished and paint it with something myself, just not sure what I would use that is non-toxic and better than polyurethane?

They also said they are looking into using something that is water-based for a finish in the future but they haven’t really used it much yet.

Thank you for any input!

Debra’s Answer

Regular polyurethane IS toxic and I don’t recommend it.

I purchase unfinished wood furniture and finish it myself, or you could ask them to use a water-based product. My experience is, however, that professionals are reluctant to use finishes they have no experience with because they cannot guaranteed results.

I’ve been happy using Rust Oleum 6032 VOC Varathane Interior Polyurethane (which was recommended to me by the cabinetmaker who made my kitchen cabinets in California), which is a water-based polyurethane, and also wood finishes from Vermont Natural Coatings.

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Question from Paul McBride

Had to put new tires on my old 4runner. Even though they are outside the vehicle, they put out VOCs big time, which can be detected in the vehicle. It isn’t a smell per se, but it makes my mouth break out and burn (strange reaction to many chemicals that I have–not sure if others have this issue).

Apart from used-tire shopping and the waste associated with abandoning the new ones, what have people done? I don’t keep it in the garage, etc. The tires, FYI, are Cooper Discoverer SUV tires, so beware of getting new ones. I got ones that are supposed to be good at wet traction, but I think this means more soft-rubber compounds in the material. Thanks in advance for tips. I am going to try washing them, etc. And maybe if it starts raining again around here, that will help. In the mean time, I have to use my portable activated-carbon filter on trips.

–Paul

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from cindysimone

My daughter had rugs installed in the basement of her new home. I am so worried about my grandchildren (1 yr. and 3 yrs. old) playing down there. There is a strong odor. Is there anything that can be done ‘after the fact’? Do I need to find out the specs of the rug, first?

I am running my Austin Air Healthmate HEPA air purifier down there now.

Thank you so much!

Cindy

Debra’s Answer

You can apply AFM Carpet Seal. This is a clear odorless sealant that seals in the carpet odors.

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Question from Donna L

I’m confused. I read a while back that washing clothes in vinegar removes flame retardants. Today, I read that vinegar actually helps to keep fire retardants in tact. Do you know if either is the case or if there is any way to wash flame retardants out of clothes? I have a four year old and even though I make sure his clothes, bed linens, etc. are 100% cotton, I’ve been washing all new purchases in vinegar…just in case. Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

I haven’t read either about flame retardants.

My understanding is that flame retardants cannot be removed from clothing. They are designed to make the fabric flame retardant for the life of the fabric, to conform with federal flammability laws.

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Question from karen b

I am looking for a new apt because the waterproofing chemicals recently applied to my apt building are making me very sick. I have seen some nice apts but all have synthetic carpeting which will also make me sick. What is the best alternative I might use to replace the synthetic carpet at a new place? I have done a little research into linoleum and it seems to have an acrylic sealant (a no no) and also I have read that natural linoleum has strong fumes. Cork, I have read, contains binders in it such as formaldehyde and urea melamine. So I am looking for suggestion and ideas. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

My preferred floorings are prefinished solid wood laid with yellow woodworker’s glue, ceramic tile, or stone.

Readers, what do you like?

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Question from katier

Hello,

We are getting ready to refinish the oak hardwood floors throughout our entire house and have found the comments on your website to be extremely helpful. Thank you.

In our research we have come across products by a company called EcoProcote, but I haven’t seen any discussion about these products on your site (unless I missed them) and haven’t been able to find too many reviews on the web. Any feedback that you’ve received on the true eco-friendliness of these products for hardwood floors and also on durability?

I have seen mixed reviews on AFM products as well as those by Vermont Natural Coatings — some people love and some not so much…

Also, in your readers’ experiences, is any hardwood floor refinisher able to use these green products? We are having trouble finding someone who is willing to use one of these products since they haven’t used them in the past.

Many thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any experience with EcoProcote. Readers?

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Question from mcy9@hotmail.com

I am having a reaction to the new hot water tank. Would appreciate any information to help me figure out why I am having a reaction.

Debra’s Answer

Readers, anyone had a similar reaction?

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Question from Alison

UPDATE 2/1/11

One of my readers contacted an attorney about filing a class action lawsuit, and they are interested. Here is a message from the attorney, inviting you to contact them with your problems with Natura paint:

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Hi Debra and readers,

I have MCS and am trying to find a safe interior paint that is also high quality and durable. Benjamin Moore’s new paint “Natura” has been recommended to me. Any experience with this?

The possible hazardous substances listed on the MSDS are: Titanium Dioxide, Kaolin, Amorphous Silica, Nepheline Syenite, and Diatonaceous Earth.

Debra’s Answer

UPDATE 5/14/10

Originally I wrote that none of the ingredients listed above were hazardous, however, I then began receiving comments (see below) that readers were having trouble with this paint.

Today I received an email from a reader saying:

Apparently that’s the solution.

I personally haven’t tried this Natura paint yet, but if you have used it and have a problem with it, contact your local store and have them contact the manufacturer for this fix.

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Question from -E-

I came across the EPA’s website Design For The Environment Label and was wondering what your thoughts were on the products they have listed? Thanks for your advice!

Debra’s Answer

The EPA’s Design for the Environment program allows manufacturers to put the DfE label on household and commercial products, such as cleaners and detergents, that meet stringent criteria for human and environmental health.

Their Alternatives Assessments Program helps industries choose safer chemicals by providing an in-depth comparison of potential human health and environmental impacts of the chemicals they currently use or plan to use. For situations in which safer chemicals have yet to be identified as viable substitutes, their Best Practices Program shows workers how to protect themselves and their communities’ health by using chemicals safely and minimizing exposures.

List of products approved to carry the DfE seal

One good thing about this program is that the manufacturers are required to submit the complete product formulation information. All ingredients are reviewed to ensure that the potential environmental and human health effects of prod ucts and ingredients are accurately and adequately identified. Applicants must report all ingredients intentionally added to the formulation, regardless of percentage. This is important because current law does not require disclosing to the public all ingredients of many hazardous products, such as cleaning products, which makes them difficult to evaluate. So seeing this seal, you know that all the ingredients have been considered.

I did spend some time looking for the standards they use when evaluating these ingredients. I went to DfE’s Standard and Criteria for Safer Chemical Ingredients expecting to find maybe a list of acceptable chemicals, and what I found were documents with a lot of references to other documents and requirements for toxicity tests.

Just from this quick look it appears to me that the difference between their approach and my personal approach is that I’m looking for products that clearly have tried-and-true safe ingredients, like soap, for example. It appears at first glance that what this program is looking for is products made with safer industrial chemicals.

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Question from joyinjesus

I have MCS, and my husband bought me a 100% cotton bathrobe, which I wanted. It is white (he said it was the only color in my size at the store he went to). My whites don’t tend to stay nice and white, so I was thinking I would dye it. Then I realized that dye might be toxic. Is there a non-toxic way to dye a white terry cloth cotton bathrobe? Thank you very much for your help.

Debra’s Answer

I have never dyed anything myself personally, but I did research dyes quite a bit some years ago.

I wouldn’t use regular dye, and even natural dyes have toxic elements in the fixatives.

Readers, any experience and advice with this?

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Question from Miemiemuis

I am trying to find safety information regarding the InfraChef oven. It uses a halogen light to cook with. It has a glass base that you put the food in and the light sits on top. Thanks for your input.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t see anything toxic about the glass part that the food comes in contact with. But it does have a plastic top. I don’t have any experience with this oven, so can’t advise if there might be some offgassing from the plastic.

Readers, any experience with this oven?

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Question from Violet56

Can anyone recommend how to dispose of carbon water filters, that are in a system, contained in a housing, under the kitchen sink, attached with a spout on the counter. (it is a CBR-210 R water filter). I have been using them for the past 27 years and very happy with them….but, when I throw them in the garbage, I always feel badly. I asked the company a few years ago and they said that they were working on it…..any ideas? Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Maybe take it to Household Hazardous Waste Collection?

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Question from DoTheRightThing1978

Hello and thank you for the chance to get some info on this…

I have recently switched to cleaning with baking soda, vinegar, castile soap, and essential oils. My hands and skin are quite sensitive and I feel the oils very strongly on my skin. Plus, the baking soda and vinegar tend to dry out my hands quite badly, so my solution was to get gloves. However, I find this ironic! Using rubber gloves with a chemical powder inside them in order to protect my hands and skin from the natural stuff just doesn’t make sense to me! But I do need the gloves, especially for the times I am doing a massive bathroom, tub, tile, and even the walls cleaning!

Hope you can help… Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Readers. what are your recommendations? I don’t use gloves.

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Question from Jan harris

My wonderful 100% organic cotton sheets have been washed often and now have an odor — probably from the chemicals I’m detoxing — which I’m sensitive to. Is there any way to rid the sheets of this odor?

Debra’s Answer

Readers, any experience with this?

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Question from petercsantoro@yahoo.com

I will start to purée my infant’s first foods. For my first child, I used a glass blender, a Breville with a stainless steel bottom and blade. I need to purchase another one, and figure the glass is best for baby’s food (no BPA in glass). Would you recommend this one or is there another you like, or another product for making baby food? What about the Vitamix blender? I see that it is plastic but I believe it is “BPA” free. It seems to do a lot more than a typical blender so other than the fact that it is plastic, I like the product. Any thoughts on the Vitamix?

Debra’s Answer

I like my Vitamix a lot. The only problem for me is that the canister is fairly large and I usually am making a smaller amount of food. They have a smaller canister you might want to get.

The big advantage to the Vitamix is it’s power. I bought mine because I like to make smoothies with ice and blender ice cream and crushed ice and was having problems doing this with regular blenders.

I’ve just been very happy with mine.

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On January 19, 30 states filed legislation to protect children from toxic chemicals in consumer products.

Read more at www.saferchemicals.org.

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Just before Christmas 2010, the Senate passed ‘food safety’ bill H.R.2751, previously S. 510, that will put the FDA in control of the nations food supply.

Vermont citizens have made a declaration that the agency and government have no right to determine or restrict the food choices of the People of Vermont.

“The Vermont Resolution for Food Sovereignty”, written by the Vermont Coalition for Food Sovereignty, it makes a statement to the United States government and the FDA that I wholeheartedly support. That we can grow and share food is an inalienable right that cannot be taken away.

The Vermont Resolution for Food Sovereignty

WHEREAS All people are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, and among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; and

WHEREAS Food is human sustenance and is the fundamental prerequisite to life; and

WHEREAS The basis of human sustenance rests on the ability of all people to save seed, grow, process, consume and exchange food and farm products; and

WHEREAS We the People of Vermont, have an obligation to protect these rights as is the Common and Natural Law; and in recognition of the State’s proud agricultural heritage; and the necessity of agricultural, ecological and economic diversity and sustainability to a free and healthy Society;

THEREFORE, Be it resolved, that We The People, stand on our rights under the 10th Amendment to the US Constitution and reject such Federal decrees, statutes, regulations or corporate practices that threaten our basic human right to save seed, grow, process, consume and exchange food and farm products within the State of Vermont; and,

Be it further resolved, that We The People, shall resist any and all infringements upon these rights, from whatever sources that are contrary to the rights of the People of the State of Vermont.

 

Read more at Vermont Takes Action to Resist FDA Take Over With a Resolution All Should Adopt.

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Question from Cheryl3

We have a one floor home mostly carpet and some tile (which usually mop not vacuum). We are considering a Hoover Platinum bagged upright w/cannister (model UH30010com). We need something light because I’m not good w/heavy/cumbersome things. It has a HEPA filter and gets excellent reviews (for dust control and other issues) on Amazon, priced in the low to mid $200’s. It has a self sealing bag to contain the dust when emptying it, but my question is: is this effectively the same as a “Sealed HEPA System”? We’re not super allergic to dust but do want to reduce it substantially. I didn’t want to go too expensive because down the road (not for awhile though) we hope to get rid of the carpet and have hard wood floors installed. The canister is for dusting, furniture and bare floors. Any thoughts or experience? Thanks very much.

Debra’s Answer

HEPA is a specific type of filter that is extremely effective at collecting particles.

If the label doesn’t say “HEPA” it’s not the same thing.

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Question from kgbubble

Hi Debra,

We are going to be looking into buying a house soon, for the very first time. I want to go beyond the basic assessments done when purchasing a house to make sure it’s as non toxic as possible, prior to any remodeling on our parts. I wonder if you can point me in a good direction or a past post on this website, or a website with this information.

Additionally, if this hasn’t been covered here, what are some key points on purchasing a less toxic home? What should we look for? What should we have tested/inspected? I know, for example, that a lot of older homes have lead issues, but they also, according to some, have fresher air due to better circulation of outside air b/c of their leaky windows. thoughts? I want to go in eyes wide open, rather than having to do a lot of costly clean up after the fact. Building isn’t an option right now, b/c we likely won’t be here longer than 3-4 years. Thank you so much for helping us start this journey and Happy New Year!

Debra’s Answer

The subject of buying a nontoxic home is quite thoroughly covered in chapter 17 of my book Home Safe Home.

You specifically mentioned lead.I know here in Florida, the seller needs to disclose the presence of lead, that may be true in other places as well. You should also ask about asbestos in an older home.

You will, of course, want to have the home inspected by a standard home inspector, but they will not look for toxics issues. One of the things I do as a consultant is look at homes before people buy them, and I am available to go anywhere in the world to do this. You may be able to find someone locally who does this as well.

If you have questions as you are looking, you can also call me on the phone for a paid consultation.

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Question from petercsantoro@yahoo.com

I am trying to find a good HEPA vacuum. I like the Miele series 7, but they all have “integrated PVC bumpers” to protect your furniture, etc… Does it matter that there are PVC bumpers? I’ve heard to avoid anything with PVC, so should I stay away from these vacuums in my home?

Debra’s Answer

We have a Miele HEPA vacuum and LOVE it. The entire unit is plastics, as are all vacuum cleaners. Ours has never had an odor.

You may not be able to find a vacuum cleaner without PVC. I’ve never looked for one. There are things in this world that if you are going to use them, there is going to be some exposure. But if the bumpers are hard PVC, they wouldn’t outgas much. I don’t know the model of my Miele, but it doesn’t have bumpers.

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Question from saphire

I have lived in my apartment for five years and have been searching a lot for a nonsmoking place to live. I am in Placentia, California, 62 years of age, a cancer survivor and want to live a healthy life.

The one apartment that I found is very expensive and I may just have to stay where I am. My concerns regarding staying are that there are many smokers here. Last year the lady downstairs smoked continuously and I could smell this at all hours. It gets hot in the summer and had to close window. I then was concerned about air conditioning and the smoke getting through the vents. Yes, she has moved, but what if someone else moves in and smokes, or their visitors? There are cigarette butts all around the property and management will not agree to banning smoking inside, outside and all around because there are too many smokers here. They do not want to lose money, although I see quite a few vacancies. (I have talked and explained all the pros of having this a nonsmoking property, but they just want to get people in and keep them).

I would be gone if I had family around or could find a place suitable. If I end up signing the lease in two weeks then what “really good air filter” can I get to rid the air of the toxins from the smoke. Smokers pass by the apartment so I do still get this.

Does the smoke really travel through vents? I read that it does all the time and then someone will tell me that that is ridiculous and that apartments are all individual units and that the vents are not joined. Is this the case sometimes?

Would appreciate any suggestions on “Good air filter” for getting rid of the toxins from smoke.

Second issue: I walk down a hallway to get to the elevator and there is a perfumed odor. A resident told me that they put air fresheners in the vents because someone had complained about the smell.

Debra’s Answer

I understand your predicament.

With regard to the vents, it depends on the building whether they are connected or individual. Ask your building manager. If they are connected, then pollutants from other units certainly can come into your unit through the vents.

Cigarette smoke contains both particles and gasses, so you need a filter that removes both. A good combination would be HEPA and charcoal.

Update April, 2020.  Read more in the Portable Air Purifier Buying Guide.

Question from UlliV

In my effort to slowly replace everything plastic in my closet with natural fibers I came across two companies/websites that will most likely become a staple in my clothes shopping. Both are outside the U.S. though, one in the UK, the other in Iceland.

www.woolovers.us

www.nordicstore.net

I have ordered 2 sweaters from woolovers and a hat and gloves from nordicstore and am waiting with anticipation for them to arrive. Both orders already shipped.

I find it hard in the U.S. to come across real 100% wool clothing that doesn’t cost a month’s salary and is still manufactured in a sweat shop, be it in China or elsewhere.

The closest I could come to real and authentic on the American continent is this: www.native-languages.org/clothing.htm Their wool sweaters are wonderful and handknit and just what you want in a cold winter but of course cost accordingly.

Debra’s Answer

Thanks Ulli! I’m sure others will appreciate having these resources.

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Question from kimrmora

How green is the cleaner Simple Green?

Debra’s Answer

The MSDS for SImple Green lists no hazardous chemicals, but their ingredients list shows some ingredients I don’t consider safe.

The ingredients are: Water (Aqua), Butoxyethanol, Mixed Alcohol Ethoxylate, Tetrapotassium Pyrophosphate, Sodium Citrate, Fragrance, Colorant.

Butoxyethanol is a toxic ethylene glycol (see www.pesticideinfo.org/Detail_Chemical.jsp?Rec_Id=PC35051). Synthetic fragrances are neurotoxicants (affect the nervous system).

They may be diluted enough to not be listed on the MSDS, however, this begs the question, is a diluted toxic chemical a safe product overall?

Personally, I clean with soap, baking soda, and vinegar.

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