Question from Marshann Burnette

I am trying to create organic bed because I can’t sleep. I have covered our mattress with an organic mattress pad, use organic sheets and pillow cases, and use an organic wool blanket.

Now for the pillow. Where can I find an organic choice that resembles the molded Tempru Pedic pillow my chiropractor recommends?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know how the Tempurpedic pillow is molded, but you can probably get any company that makes organic pillows to custom make a pillow for you in any shape.

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Question from MR

I recently purchased a Culligan shower filter in order to reduce my exposure to the chlorinated water in my home.

This shower filter contains a bacteriostatic this is suppose to filter out the bacteria in the water, if any.

Is this bacteriostatic related to triclosan? Am I eliminating one hazard but creating another by using this shower filter?

Debra’s Answer

The product description of this filter says “The bacteriostatic filter will retard the growth of bacteria within your shower head.”

Bacteriostatic means that the material in the filter–KDF 55–retards bacteria growth but does not kill it or remove it. There is no added toxic bacteria-killing substance.

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Question from PJ

I would like to refill my own glass bottle with bulk olive oil at the grocery store, but I have not had good results cleaning the bottle. I use hot water and dish washing liquid. I soak the bottle, fill it with soapy water and shake it. I do this several times. Unfortunately, a thin film of oil remains. I find the narrow neck bottles easier to pour out of, but impossible to get truly clean. Any suggestion would be appreciated.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any suggestions?

I just put some dish soap in the bottle and shake it around and it comes out clean.

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Question from Dee

I am looking for a cotton blanket, but all I can find are thin whimpy ones that keep getting pulls in them. Anyone have any suggestions?

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from handy sal

The best way to avoid mold is to not let it get started in the first place. I live on the coast where it is very moist and in the winter, and mold will grow where there is condensation, for instance on window sills. We made the mistake years ago when we built our house of installing aluminum window frames. Big mistake in a cold, wet climate. And of course there is also the problem of mold in the shower, on the shower curtain, and behind the faucet on the sink backsplash.

After battling for years with everything I could think of,(even, gasp, bleach)I found the secret. I saw a small item in some article about using Oregano Oil for cleaning mold and thought I would give it a try. Now sometimes home made potions work really well and sometimes not, but I was hopeful. I am expecting someone to sucessfully market it cause it is the best. If I was younger I might go for it but maybe someone energetic who wants to develop a cleaner will send me a check for the idea!

I am allergic to lots of stuff but thankfully not Oregano Oil. I buy it in the natural food store in gel caps. I don’t buy the essential oil tiny bottles because the gel caps stay fresh a very long time if you keep them dry. When I want to clean the window sills I use one gel cap in a bowl of warm water. I cut the cap open under water and swish it around and discard the cap. Then I just dip a cloth into the water, wring it out and wipe the window and sill. It actually dissolves the mold. It works much better than bleach and smells good. I use the oil full strength on problem areas like the shower grout and sink backsplash. And when I wash my cloth shower curtain I soak it in a small amount of hot water and use two gel caps. After it soaks I wash it and the mold will not grow on it. I use baking soda and vinegar to clean toilets and sometimes after I rinse it out I will add an Oregano gel cap to the toilet to freshen it. I have been passing this on to people because it works so well, is inexpensive, and not toxic.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Mary

www.dharmatrading.com currently has an interesting webpage about the differences between natural and synthetic dyes. On the righthand side of the home page is this month’snewsletter link. The article is at the bottom. I thought readers might find it of interest.

I have found Dharma Trading to be a good source of inexpensive white clothes, e.g., tees and knit pants to sleep in, etc. They also have a paper catalog available.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from New Vegetarian

Quorn meat substitutes contain the ingredient mycoprotein. Has anyone heard of this? I have read several reviews stating that Quorn products are the best substitutes for meat and I really wanted to try it out. But this ingredient concerns me…

Debra’s Answer

Mycoprotein is a fermentation of a fungus microorganism and certain nutrients, mixed with egg white and seasonings.

It’s a manmade concoction that doesn’t appear in nature.

I’m skeptical of manufactured foods.

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Question from Shannon

hi, i have bought some organic pillow cases to start with, if i use just the pillow case do i have to worry that the chemicals form the other bedding (sheets) will go into the organic pillowcase? do i need to worry about washing organic sheets and towels with pillowcases that have touched the “chemicals” ruining them to where there is no health benifit?

thank you

shannon

Debra’s Answer

Congratulations for taking a first step toward an organic bed!

I don’t think it’s a problem for you to wash your organic pillowcases with your non-organic bedsheets. Any chemicals absorbed by the organic pillowcases will wash or air out.

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Question from Stacy D

I just recently discovered that my son’s fishtank that he has had for 2 1/2 months had been leaking from the tank every time that I opened the tank to feed the fish or clean the tank. A small drip would travel from the tank, down the cord to the floor. The tank was sitting on a wooden bookshelf. I discovered some dirty water around the bottom of the front corner of the bookshelf yesterday while vacuuming his room.

After feeling around to the back of the bookshelf, I realized what had been happening. After emptying the bookshelf and removing it from the room, I saw black mold on the carpet and onthe bottom of the bookshelf. I cut out the moldy part of the carpet and pad and removed them from the room.

We were going to replace the carpet with hardwood next month anyway so it wasn’t a big deal. I also saw a small amount of mold on the subfloor. I was unable to completely remove the trim from the wall because my son’s bed is too heavy to move without disassembling it. I did, however, pull the trim away from the wall as far as I could with a screwdriver to check for water damage. I’m fairly certain I saw a small amount of mold on the inside of the trim as well.

I applied 3 seperate applications of tea tree oil to the floor and between the trim and wall and let each application dry naturally. Was that enough to kill the mold? What else should I do to completely get rid of the mold and the spores that it will leave behind? I thought that I might be able to salvage the bookshelf by spraying bleach and water and letting it dry out in the sun. The bookshelf was givin to my son as a gift and was very expensive. I am apprehensive to put it back in the room.

Luckily, my son hasn’t slept in his room for most of the summer.I am grateful for that. What else should I do before allowing him to return to his room? should I scrap the bookshelf? do I need to wipe down the walls in his room to get rid of the spores?

Debra’s Answer

I have successfully used heat to kill mold throughout a room (put a space heater in the room, close windows and doors, and let it bake for a few days to a week). However, mold can be very damaging to health.

My most prudent recommendation is to call a professional mold remediator, to get their evaluation and recommendation at least. You probably also want to have the air tested for mold.

Children are much more susceptable than adults to the effects of indoor air pollutants. It will cost much less now to clean this up and know it’s done right than it will if you need to handle your son’s health problems in the future.

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Question from vtacanary

The grout around the tile in the shower is cracking and in need of repair. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what to use? I can actually block off that bathroom for a few days and run a heater and fan if necessary. Thanks for any input.

Debra’s Answer

You can use any standard grout. Grout itself is not toxic, it’s the grout sealer that’s the problem. For that, use the grout sealer made by AFM Enterprises.

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Question from Annette Tweedel

Hi Debra,

With having MCS, I am looking for a bra. I have been wearing Playtex 18 Hour bra’s which has polyester,cotton,nylon, and spandex. Sad to say I wear my bra’s sometimes until they are really worn. One bra was worn until the spandex band that goes around my body was starting to come through and the spandex was irritating me.

Well, I found two different bra’s in the Gaiam Living magazine. The first one is an Unwired Bra which is 90% Swiss Organic cotton/10% spandex. The second one is a No-Wire Support Bra with Sorbtek fabric. I researched and found out Sorbtek, I believe, if I remember correctly, it said something like its synthetic fibers from polyester. I wanted to get one of these bra’s until I researched further and got this information.

I know its best to stay away from synthetic, so can you recommend a safe bra?

Thank you very much for the help.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from chris

What is a good non-toxic varnish for wood bowls and plates?

Debra’s Answer

Take a look at Q&A: Wood Conditioner for Cutting Boards and Bowls. These aren’t varnishes, but various oils that protect and finish wood products used with food.

You can also finish wood food items with natural carnuba wax or beeswax, or shellac. Shellac is made from ground beetles, mixed with alcohol. When the alcohol evaporates, you are left with a very natural finish.

Personally, I would go with one of the natural oils or beeswax purchased from a local beekeeper, so you know there are no additives.

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Question from Wendy

here is a recipe I got from a homeschooling workshop. I use as our All Purpose Cleaner-have for about 5 yrs now. I was skeptical at first, I’ve tried a few recipes in the past but after outlaying the money for the supplies it never works and I wish I hadn’t (kind of like gluten free bread- seriously it’s easier just not to eat bread at all! LOL) Anyhow I had only used vinegar and baking soda for about 4 yrs prior to this, sucdessfully so I thought- I mean with some elbow grease, I could keep things looking not bad but then I could not get my water cooler clean. I was prepared to freecycle it just because it looked so nasty I could see moms gasping at it’s filthyness ;-( I had tried vinegar, baking soda, even gasp bleach with a mask! no improvement. I had just made this and sprayed it on, left it for a few minutes and 95% of the dirt came off. I was astounded and I’ve only used it ever since. You can add whatever essential oil in it that you want but i do prefer the tea tree oil.

I make this but multiply everything by 8 and it just fits in a big glass GALLON jar, then put into dollar store squirt bottles or glass syrup bottles that fit the sprayer.

It has worked amazing on everything, even dried gukky stovetop from yesterday.sigh. *be sure and use pure liquid glycerin SOAP not the plain liquid glycerin. I think I figured out it’s about 20cents per dollar store spray bottle to make.

Let cool then add 10 drops Germ Away essential oil from natural sense ***Aromateraphy Orono, Ontario 1-888-tea-tree ** this is from the original recipe…but I just use regular tea tree oil from the grocery store.

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Question from J.C.L.

In the late 1990’s, I was required to attend an OSHA lecture given by Monona Rossol, President/founder of Arts, Crafts and Theater Safety, Inc., which provides health and safety services to the arts. I recall her writing the molecular structure of orange oil next to the molecular structure of an E.P.A.-regulated pesticide. They were identical. She said think of all the people spraying orange-based cleaners believing they were safe when the molecular structure was the same as a regulated pesticide.

I have never used citrus based products since. But I see in stores and on your web site that these types of products are still popularly considered and advertised to be safe.

Do you know anything about citrus-based products and pesticide (I don’t know which particular one) being molecularly identical?

(She lectured on this topic because citrus based solvent was being used as an alternative to low-odor solvents in art. I had used each solvent and both were so irritating that I was up at night coughing from them. I switched to other media.)

She said that just because something comes from nature does not mean it is a safe replacement for other materials. Many chemicals in plants can kill us.

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

This is an important subject and I’m happy to have us discuss it here.

I am not a trained chemist, but have studied a lot of chemistry on my own in an attempt to understand the chemicals in consumer products.

So what I say here is my understanding, but may not be what a chemistry book says.

You brought up two points, which are each separate ideas.

The first was that the molecular structure of a natural substance can be the same as the molecular structure of a man-made substance. And an assumption was made that since the molecular structure of orange oil was identical to the pesticide that they were equally toxic.

I don’t agree with this. There is a lot more to a substance than it’s molecular structure. Let’s just look at molecular structure for a moment. There are, in nature, basic elements that make up all life. These are outlined in the Periodic Table of Elements. These elements include hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, etc. These basic elements are found throughout life, in plants, animals, our own human bodies, water, petroleum, and everything else. Every single material form can be broken down into these basic building blocks of life. [a really easy explanation of the elements].

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Question from Mom

We are moving to the new house and had floor redone and water based coating (3 finishes) and rooms painted with low VOC paint. I am six month pregnant and have 3 year old daughter. How long should I stay out of house to prevent harm to a baby? Thank you

Debra’s Answer

I can’t give you a definitive time, as the amount of time it takes for a finish to completely cure depends on the conditions, but you want to allow time for the finish to completely cure and stop outgassing volatile vapors.

Heat will speed the process. I would say that if you heated the rooms for about a week, they should be safe at that point.

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Over the weekend, my husband and I went to see “Food, Inc: How Industrial Food is Making Us Sicker, Fatter, and Poorer-And What You Can Do About It,” and we were very glad we did.

Whether you have been eating organic for years or are new to organic foods, you’ll learn something from this very informative film. We learned more than we knew.

Through first-person interviews mixed with shots of real-life farms and processing plants, Food, Inc. clearly shows the difference between industrial manufacturing of food and organic agriculture.

Today, mega retailers like McDonald’s and Wal-Mart define how our food is grown and raised because they are the largest customers. Do you think you are eating better food because you’re not eating at McDonald’s? Think again. The only difference between the food you eat at McDonald’s and the food on your plate that you purchased at a supermarket is that you cooked it. The same food from the same processing plants goes to fast food chains and supermarkets. And that food is produced for profit, not safety or nutrition.

Food, Inc shows some unsavory footage, but it’s not too bad. What is great about this film is that you can see with your own eyes the difference between how industrial food and organic food is created.

At heart, this film is a feature-length commercial for organic food producers. Though the film reveals a side of the food industry that may make you want to never eat again, it also presents the solution: choose organic, eat seasonal, buy local, prepare your own food at home…all the things I have been writing about for years.

While Food, Inc begins with alarm, it ends with hope. It reminds us that we have power as consumers to change the system with the decisions we make every time we purchase food.

Worth seeing if you want to know what’s currently happening with our food supply.

For more information on the movie, visit the official Food, Inc website, where you can watch the trailer, find a local theater, learn more about organic food, and get a reading list.

And here’s the companion book: Food Inc.: A Participant Guide: How Industrial Food is Making Us Sicker, Fatter, and Poorer-And What You Can Do About It

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Question from jhwmsls

I have an older refrigerator that I want to remove the rust from and repaint it (a new one is out of the question right now). I am allergic to chemicals. Are there environmentally friendly rust removers and metal paint available?

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

Oh, not that I know of.

Readers?

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Question from Nancy

We want to install bamboo flooring in our bedroom and they are click in floor boards so there would be no gluing needed. The brand name is Golden Select. However it has a foam underlay and so far I have been unable to find any specific information on the safety of this underlay. It would be a quality floor and quite reasonable as we could install it ourselves and we can purchase it locally. The sales rep from Golden Select told me: The glue used for gluing the underlay is called LS-688C and the chemical used in the foam underlay is called XPE. I have asked him for MSDS sheets but have not heard back (Golden Select is a Canadian company). I also wrote to another company that uses this structural adhesive LS-688C in cars but have not heard anything. I also wrote to the Chinese company that makes the XPE foam but have not heard back.

I am hoping you or your readers may have be able to offer some additional help or ideas.

Thanks very much Deb for all your good works!

Nancy

Debra’s Answer

This isn’t enough information for me to research this. They need to provide an MSDS to you.

Readers, any experience with this product?

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Question from Anne

Hi,

I would like to buy a pizzelle maker but so far I have only seen ones that are made with a non stick coating or aluminum.

Does anyone know if they make one with cast iron or anodized aluminum. I have been searching the internet but so far no luck.

Thank-you,
Anne Donahue

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Bonnie Johnson

Hi,

My remodeler wants to check into something called LG Hi-Macs for the counter tops in the kitchen.

Anyone with experience with this product? They sell it at Lowes and I am trying to stay ahead of all these projects before they start to stay well.

The man at Lowes said it was non toxic compared to Corian.

Bonnie Johnson

Debra’s Answer

There are four different Hi-Macs products, so I’m not sure which one you are referring to.

This is a solid acrylic plastic countertop. Their MSDS indicates no toxicity of the finished product, but I personally am skeptical about acrylic because I have read elsewhere that acrylic IS toxic.

Anyone have experience with this product?

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Question from Patricia

Hi Debra,

We’re planning on covering our basement concrete floor with DriCore subflooring. We will seal the floor with an AFM/Safecoat urethane after installation. The subfloor will become the floor, as it will not be carpeted or tiled. The DriCore MSDS, link here www.dricore.com/en/pdf/msds.pdf, says it has has phenol formaldehyde resin in the core. I talked with the manufacturer, (www.DRIcore.com and phone 1-866-976-6374) who said the panels are sealed with a water-based acrylic sealant. I will have my husband do all cutting outside, to decrease any chemical dust in the basement.

My question…will the formaledhyde offgas? From the MSDS information do you see any potential problems?

This is the only option that I found that will work for the present situation with our basement floor, whioh has very old red concrete stain that “runs” when it gets wet and leaves a powdery dust on shoe soles. We haven’t been able to get it washed off in the 24 years we’ve lived here. Half the floor is also covered with old lineoleum tile squares over the red stain. I don’t know if there is asbestos in the tiles. The other half was painted over the stain, and the paint is now wearing off. The DriCore representative said Dricore can be installed over the top of the present floor as is….that’s a huge selling point for us. I want to be as sure as possible that I won’t have problems before making this costly purchase.

Thanks for all the work you do to help us improve our health, Debra.

Debra’s Answer

I can’t give you a definitive answer without seeing the product, but in general, the idea seems like a good solution for basements.

I was talking with a client on the phone a few weeks ago about needing to put a subfloor in her basement, and the contractor was going to build a subfloor much like this, with plywood and a sheet of polyethylene. This product came up as a possibility, which is an easier way to accomplish the same thing.

The hazards noted on the MSDS are exposure to wood dust and formaldehyde. I’m not concerned about the wood dust because that would not be a problem except during installation. The formaldehyde levels given are below the accepted levels for industrial exposures and which cause cancer. However, if you are very sensitive, and you are covering a large space, they could be too much for you.

These panels do have a finish on them, however, not all finishes block formaldehyde.

Before you invest in this, check with AFM to make sure that the product of their you are using will effectively block any formaldehyde. And I would suggest that you get one of the panels and live with it before you have them installed in your basement.

If you were going to put another flooring on top, this would be less of an issue. You could always put down a sheet of foil that would block the formaldehyde completely, and then lay another floor on top of that. Or, if you laid a ceramic tile floor on top of this subfloor, that would block the formaldehyde completely as well.

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Question from Ananda

Hi Debra,

I seem to recall that you mentioned a few months ago, that you would like to find a wool fleece mattress pad. I saw such a product on a recent trip. It was an organic wool fleece mattress pad with an organic cotton backing. I looked at it, and it seemed nice and thick and luxurious. The link to the company’s website is:

Holy Lamb Organics: Wool Fleece Toppers

Hope this helps.

Ananda

Debra’s Answer

Thank you! This is wonderful! It’s made of 100% Organic Merino Wool stitched to a 100% Organic Cotton Backing. I’m going to start saving up for one.

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Question from Bob

Hi Debra,

I recently bought an 1987 mercedes 300d diesel and each time I have driven it I feel worse. The car was in great shape pretty clean inside and I super cleaned it in and out with my nontoxic cleaners. The engine was pretty dirty with built up oil and fuel GRIME and I have cleaned most of the engin as well. The a/c is not operational and I feel I am getting my reactions from either the oil and fuel on the engin, dielel fumes or a possible a/c freon leak as the system was most likely recharged prior to me buying the car and could have a slow leak. I am also hypersensitive to mold however I dont feel that it is mold as the reactions I get are different. I am going to finish cleaning the engin remove the freon from the a/c system and see how I do but I think I am in trouble and may end up selling the car and getting a gas model. I dont know if dielel’s are considered more toxic than gas but I have learned that the engines are more oily and dirty???Any help would be appreciated so much.

Thanks,

Bob Fla & Ny

Debra’s Answer

My mechanic husband says…

You can take your Mercedes to an air conditioning shop and they can check to see if there is a freon leak. You might be able to get this for free, or for a very low cost. It’s worth knowing if there is a leak. If it is leaking, and you don’t want to repair the leak, have the air condition system “evacuated” to empty all the freon.

To remove the oil and fuel on the engine, take it to an engine steam cleaning place to clean the engine and transmission thoroughly. Repair any obvious oil leaks.

Get the exhaust system checked at a muffler shop. They will usually do this for free or low cost.

Another possibility is to do as we did and covert it to run on vegetable oil! See our veggie oil car at Our Vegetable Oil Car.

Larry said it’s likely that if you check the points outlined above and make any necessary repairs, your diesel car probably won’t be a problem.

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Question from doodle

Hi Debra! My father has just finished bricking my home, we did probably 90% brick, anyways, he mentioned I might need to use an acid on my brick to get the excess and splatter of mortar off. I’m afraid to use this, being I try to use everything green. I also worry about the garden out back. I tried a little vinager, of course it was no match to the mortar. (It worked well in my kitchen grout tho! lol) Do you have any suggestions? Oh they told me since I had a sanded finish on my brick that if i used a wire brush or power washer it would take the finish off. I havent a clue what to do now? They also said to try Tide, and even though I use Eco friendly laundry detergeant I thought it was better than acid on my brick, but… i just tried a little spot and it only took the tiny stuff off. Any suggestions? 🙂

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from lmpd42

This article about the home of a woman with MCS appeared in the L. A. Times this week.

wL. A. Times: In Search of A Nontoxic Home

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Annette Tweedel

Hi Debra,

I have MCS and I am looking for a medicine holder because I take a lot of natural supplements, at least 9 different ones. The ones in the stores are plastic, are they safe to use? Although, they are not quite what I am looking for. Those have a spot for each day of the week. I wish they had some that just had slots to hold supplements without having the day of the week on them and each separately so that way I knew which one I was taking first, second and so on.

I wish they had something like that out there somewhere. Do they? I hope I am making sense. So anyway, are those plastic ones safe? Are is there something out there that is safer?

I need this for when we go somewhere’s for a meal.

Thanks for the help.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know what type of plastic is used to make those holders, but they appear to me to not be harmful. If you can find out the type of plastic from a manufacturer, I can tell you the toxicity.

Personally, I use little glass butter holders with lids, which work well at home, but don’t travel.

Readers, what do you use to sort and carry vitamins?

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Question from Karen

I have a question about Guardsman Fabric-coate, a fabric protector. My daughter is moving to her first apartment and found a sofa she loves. The salesperson is, of course, pushing for this product to be put on the sofa and used an impressive demonstration. The sofa is polyester and I would like to know which is worse…the fabri-coate or the polyester outgassing. Would the protector keep the sofa from outgassing? She is not MCS but I got a headache and scratchy throat after visiting the furniture store. Any thoughts?

Debra’s Answer

I contacted the company for the MSDS sheet on this product and it contains propylene glycol and formaldehyde, which both would outgas from the sofa after it is applied.

It wouldn’t block the outgassing of fumes from other synthetic materials used to make the sofa.

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Question from L.A.

Are the chemicals in the “compressed air” duster sprays for cleaning computer keyboards safe? I don’t like spraying chemicals in my home if I can possibly help it.

I’ve read about mini-vacuums but user feedback invariably says they are useless. Are there any other alternatives to chemicals that work well?

Debra’s Answer

I looked at a few Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for compressed air dusting products and found that they all contained 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane as the active ingredient. It’s a gas that has numerous health effects listed. You can read more about it at these links:

Endust Dusters MSDS

Your question brought to my attention that my own keyboard needed cleaning. I used a pair of tweezers with sharp points (designed for removing splinters) and ran the tips between the keys. Picked up a lot of clumps of dust. I picked out the balls with the tweezers, then just blew the remaining particles away with my own breath.

Readers, any tips on cleaning computer keyboards?

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Question from Linda

Hi, i was wondering if you could give any info on how to stuff a mattress. I am going to order 80 pounds organic cotton from white lotus for $359 and 20 pounds of wool layers for $139. I am also gona purchase an organic queen futon cover from heart of vermont for $190. This is the only way we can afford an organic bed right now. So i was wondering what if any info you could give me about layering or stuffing the case. I would appreciate any info. We are organic on a budget, and this is what we can afford for now, we will save about $500 if we make it ourselves. Thank you

Debra’s Answer

How smart you are to get great materials and save money by utilizing your own labor.

Any of these companies where you purchased the materials I’m sure could give you expert advice on stuffing.

Many years ago I made some pillow cases and stuffed them with organic cotton batting for sofa cushions. I just pushed big chunks of batting in the cases. You want to fill the case very tight with batting.

But ask the mattress makers. They are stuffing all day long.

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Question from Lisa

I’m just about to purchase a new mattress for my daughter’s big-girl bed and was wondering if anyone has purchased a Nature’s Rest mattress and if yes, what style or level of green did you buy. As with anything it gets very confusing when everyone has their own language when it comes to natural products.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Ron

I am reading from some sources that even natural mattresses are now required to add some sort of flame resistant chemical to their beds because even wool can no longer pass the open flame test that is used. The article claims that these manufacturers are not required by law to show what chemicals they are using or even admit that they do so. Is there some place to find information that would confirm or refute this claim? Since the source I read it from is actually selling mattresses, I am concerned that it may be in his own best interest to disseminate such information whether true or not.

Debra’s Answer

There are new flammability laws. To make a complicated story short, there are flame retardant materials of various kinds used in natural mattresses, and they are not the toxic flame retardants of the past. There are many new flame retardant materials that are completely nontoxic used by natural mattress companies.

It would be interesting to survey all the natural mattress companies and make a list of flame retardants used.

If anyone would like to go to websites or call around and get the information, you can post it here and I’ll explain the different types of flame retardants you find.

In general, be skeptical of claims made about other products made by people wanting to sell their own product. The best way to sell a good product is to tell the truth about the benefits of your own product.

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Question from Savanna

Hello,

I was wondering if you new if the Starfrit Alternative Eco Pan made from natural ceramic powder is actually a healthy alternative to cook with? They say it has no Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

I haven’t actually seen this pan, but the description says “100% ceramic powder” and “99% recycled aluminum” so it sounds like it is a ceramic coating fused to an aluminum pan.

A 100% ceramic coating would be safe. Other ceramic coatings I am familiar with are lead-free.

Anyone have any experience with these pans?

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Question from Ann

Hello,

I am a former mcs sufferer, and I wanted to share some information with others regarding an allergy treatment that is eliminating my chemical sensitivities and food allergies. It’s an energy-based treatment called AAT, Advanced Allergy Therapeutics. Chiropractors generally offer the treatment. Please see the AAT website, allergytx.com , for a thorough description and explanation of what it is. The doctor I have been seeing is upgrading from AAT to another system called Bioallergenix Bax 3000. I haven’t tried the new system out yet, but it is supposed to offer more detail.

My family and I have been receiving treatments since the first week of June, and we are just about done and almost allergy free. AAT even eliminated our pesticide sensitivity. We had an exposure to pesticides last summer that made us very sick and our allergies a lot worse. AAT has brought us back to a normal life.

I hope this helps others out there.

Debra’s Answer

I’m happy to hear that this worked for you.

While I am all for finding ways to alleviate discomfort, I just want to point out that toxic substances are toxic substances. I don’t want you to think that just because you now tolerate these exposures that they are safe. Pesticides are still causing harm.

For anyone who uses this, or any other method, please continue to avoid toxic chemicals. They can cause long-term damage to your health that is not immediately apparent.

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Question from Jill

I live in Boulder, CO and the local recreation centers keep using the most toxic gym floor refinishing product. I would love to propose an alternative for them to use and wonder if anyone has any suggestions.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from DE

Its very confuning on the issue of washing your produce the correct way, some say you should wash it whole and others say you should cut it up first. Can you please explain each one of the steps you should take after you buy produce. Which things should i use to clean them with? Also how much should i use? Thanks

Debra’s Answer

It’s actually different for different types of produce.

I only use filtered water to rinse my produce, I don’t “wash” it with any substances to remove pesticides, because I buy organic.

To rinse lettuce, for example, you need to pull the individual leaves apart because dirt gets lodged between the leaves near the root. Carrots you need to scrub the skins or remove them. Leeks you need to cut up because they have a lot of sand in them, then soak in a bowl of water. Any good cookbook will give instructions for washing produce.

I think it’s best to wash produce when you first bring it home, so it is handy and ready when you want to eat it. Especially lettuce, as you don’t want wet lettuce for salad. You can put clean vegetables in the crisper of your refrigerator, wrapped in a cotton towel.

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Question from HEG

I recently bought a Visions pot due to the health benefits and was very disappointed when I found out that it did not work on my glass electric stove top. It never occurred to me that the cookware may not work on some stove tops, but the owner’s manual says that glass/ceramic cookware is not recommended. Therefore, what would be my next best alternative in terms of healthy cookware, or is there anything I can do to be able to use my Visions pot on my current stove top?

thanks

Debra’s Answer

I’m not sure what you mean “it didn’t work.” What type of cooktop do you have? If it is not recommended by the manufacturer, you might call them to ask them why not, then write back and let us know.

I use Visions on my gas cooktop and have had no problem with it for more than twenty years

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Question from Sandy

Hi, I made your english toffee with brown rice syrup and was ecstatic! I eat no refined sugar and miss the candy. Used honey in all my recipes through the years and then agave but of course they would not harden. Will brown rice syrup work at all for something like pralines? I am ready to experiment!

Debra’s Answer

Yes, don’t you think my English Toffee is the best? Even better than the toffee made with white sugar?

You can use brown rice syrup, agave, and unrefined cane sugar (Rapadura and Sucanat) to make hard candy. All will crack as refined sugar does. Maple syrup and honey with also crack.

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Question from Jan

Hi Debra.

I found your web-site recently when looking for natural alternatives for laundry. I began using ECOS natural laundry detergents and I love it. I stopped using the liquid fabric softener that I had been using. I love using as many natural products in my household as possible.

I do have a dilemma, however. I love scents! Nothing is better for me than when I step out of the shower onto my uber-soft natural bamboo bath mat and grab a fresh, clean fluffy towel and when I put it up to my face and breathe in – that it smells superb. I have been using organic essential oils on a pure organic cotton ball in my dryer – works fabulously BUT, my family’s favorite scent combinations are lavender/jasmine; lavender/vanilla; sandalwood/vanilla. Most of these essential oils are VERY expensive, however…which brings me to my question.

For laundry scenting purposes would it be acceptable to use fragrance oils rather than the organic EO’s or not? I have a sneaking suspicion that the reason we love the EO’s I’ve been using are due to their natural origin and the psychological and physiological benefits of those natural plant essences, but I wanted to hear your opinion.

Debra’s Answer

My understanding is that fragrance oils contain artificial fragrances, which themselves have all kinds of negative health effects.

If you want those good aromatherapy feelings, you’ll need to use essential oils.

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Question from Bonnie Johnson

Hi Debra,

In an effort to cut costs while remodeling moms old kitchen I thought the cabinets could be painted and I could get new hardware. They are solid wood and not in bad shape with a stain on them. My contractor seems to think they will not stay painted or take the paint if a oil based paint is not used. I have talked to some of the people at AFM Safecoat and also Mystic Paints about primers etc and they seem to feel it would be ok with a water based paint. I even looked on DIY and they talk about oil based paint doing the best job.

Do you or any readers have experience with this type of project. I just don’t feel like it is necessary to reface or get new cabinets when these are still good.

Thanks Bonnie Johnson

Debra’s Answer

I just painted some old plywood cabinets a few months ago with Aura paint by Benjamin Moore. The paint is zero VOCs and I painted them myself with no ill effects.

The paint went on very smooth and “heals” itself so there are no brush marks.

You have to sand the cabinets first and not paint over old paint in order for it to stick.

We added new hardware and it looks great!

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Question from Lea

Iam wondering if anyone knows of a “true” Organic, non toxic dry cleaner. There are advertised dry cleaners that use a chemical called DF2000 that seems to be about as organic as gasoline, but is being touted as “SAFE”. Compared to what it replaces I guess this might be true. I looked it up and DF2000 is described as a fluid PERC perchloroethylene and is a probable cancer causing chemical although it shows little immediate health risks. It is Manufactured by EXXon those stewards of the environment who dumped 30 million gallons of crude oil onto the Alaska shoreline. It seems as though the dry cleaners are banking big profits using the word “ORGANIC” for those of us who truly want to protect ourselves and the environment from toxic chemicals.

I want to clean my winter down comforters and they are too big and bulky to launder even at the laundromats BIG machines.

Can anyone help?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know how to clean your comforters–readers?

With regards to the “organic” dry cleaners, any dry cleaners who uses the word organic in association with dry cleaning is using false and misleading advertising and should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission. The new chemicals are less toxic than the old ones, but there is nothing “organic” about them.

I don’t know that there is such a thing as organic dry cleaning or that there could be, as “dry cleaning” by its very nature is to use solvents to clean instead of water and soap or detergent.

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Question from YH

Hi,

Stainless steel cookware isn’t safe; nickel makes me feel stressed and makes my eyes feel stressed. Is there nickel in earrings? Are metal/silver earrings safe? How about gold earrings? And how about gold earrings that are silver? I am thinking about stop wearing earrings and let the holes heal.

Is pearcing ear lobes a good or bad idea in terms of health?

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

There can be nickel in earrings.

The toxicity of metals is a whole subject in itself, something that I plan to study more thoroughly after I complete my website redesign and restructuring I am in the midst of right now. They don’t give off toxic fumes, however, they can be absorbed through the skin.

Metals can also affect health in ways that are not about toxicity. A friend of mine just recently told me about a necklace her husband gave her almost twenty years ago. She has worn it continuously since that day. She has had a lot of health problems. It turned out to be her necklace. It’s silver or gold, I don’t remember. She stopped wearing the necklace and her symptoms significantly improved.

I also seem to recall something about how piercing the body can affect energy meridians.

The body is a finely tuned instrument. Many environmental factors can affect it for better or worse.

If you think the earrings are affecting your health, don’t wear them.

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Question from Melissa

I am trying to reduce our usage of chemicals in and around the house. I have been making my own cleaners and laundry soap, but it bothers me that we still use chlorine in our above ground swimming pool. Does anyone have experience with salt water chlorinators?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have first-hand experience with this, as we decided against using one. It’s still chlorine, but made from salt instead of pouring it in the pool from a bottle.

We have a chlorine-free pool that uses hydrogen peroxide to keep the water sparkling clear.

Readers, anyone have experience with salt-water chlorinators?

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Question from TR

A friend told me to avoid buying an exterior door made out of fiberglass because fiberglass gives off a permanent odor. Is this true?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any experience with fiberglass exterior doors. Readers?

My exterior door is steel and completely nontoxic.

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Question from Zi Pinsley

I’m exploring the use of Ozone as a fumigant to rid my home of clothes moths. They seem to be everywhere — hiding behind bookcases, armchairs, etc. Forget cedar, lavender, chemical pesticides. This is too overwhelming.

If I can find something which eliminates them, I’m considering running a UV bug zapper in each clothes closet. What do you think?

Thanks,

Zi

Debra’s Answer

I’m a little confused by your question. It sounds like you are wanting to use ozone to kill clothes moths, but then you ask about using a UV bug zapper. These are two different machines.

I’m not sure either would accomplish eliminating clothes moths.

The moths you see flying around are not the moths that eat your clothes. Two varieties of clothes moths cause damage. They are too small to notice and are not drawn to light like other varieties. It is the larvae of these moths that eat fabric, not the moths themselves.

Instructions for storing and maintaining clothing properly to prevent damage from moths are on pages 152 and 153 in my book Home Safe Home.

I personally have used UV bug zappers and they work quite well. Moths are attracted to them. It would probably work to rid your home of visible moths, but if you have moths eating your clothes, it probably will not solve that problem.

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Question from Leslie Adams

HI Debra- I did pull the books out this morning and have them here – will list them out.

1. Twinkie, Deconstructed: My Journey to Discover How the Ingredients Found in Processed Foods Are Grown, Mined (Yes, Mined), and Manipulated into What America Eats, by Steve Ettlinger. This was MOST disturbing and the first I had read and learned about how our foods are manufactured, including vitamins. I have yellow sticking throughout this book – Ch 4 has the most – this was a very disturbing book to read…pg 31 I have marked as explaining role of China in vitamin industry. Am sure there are other references but am trying to get this done before the kids arrive! The ENTIRE book is worthy of your reading – yikes!

2.Genetically Engineered Food: A Self-Defense Guide for Consumers – by Ronnie Cummins and Ben Lilliston. It includes very important info on GMO (which is not required even as yet, to be labeled on foods – YIKES – and includes not only pertinent info on the industry itself, but what to buy and how to shop wisely. Again, many yellow stickies in this book!

3. The End of Food: How the Food Industry is Destroying Our Food Supply–And What We Can Do About It, by Thomas F. Pawlick – again, I have yellow stickies throughout – ch 5 I think is very important, and second part of book gives “Solutions”.

4. Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal by Eric Schlosser. VERY interesting and enlightening – again, YIKES. Lots of yellow stickies in this one also.

I also have three books on food not read yet – but here they are, strongly recommended for me to read due to reactions to things like canola oil (rapeseed – genetically modified entirely now, for food industry – CANOLA OIL – it was GM to begin with because the rapeseed itself gave many people who used it bad cardiac irregularities – some acid in it – now GM to be a lower level and cause fewer problems. However, many remain sensitive to it – and one local bakery told me that he doesn’t know of ANY bakeries here who DON’T use it – because Canola oil allows all that is in it to remain well in suspension, not separating out – it is great for baking! Well, not great for me as it gives me premature ventricular contractions (PVC’s) when I eat anything with that in it!!)

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Mary

Hi Debra,

I have been buying cotton sheets, etc., from The Company Store catalog for 10-15 years. I believe I initally learned about the store from one of your books. My experience with shopping from the catalog has always been positive. Not so the website.

In May I placed an order online and at check out there was an offer for coupon for saving money on my next order. I next remember receiving a coupon from Complete Savings by email. About that time I also noticed that I began receiving between 25 and 50 spam emails a day, whereas I had been getting about 3.

Two days ago I received my credit card bill and there was a $12 charge from Complete Savings. My assistant contacted both firms by telephone. They said I had agreed to a monthly charge of $12 but they would cancel it and refund the $12. Their story of how this all happened did not check out with what I recall.

So I ordered an $8 towel online so I could see how this happened. Once you choose a coupon (rather than “no thank you”) you go to a long webpage at the Complete Savings.com website and it already has your credit card number. If you read the very small print, and this would print out to be a couple of pages, except that I couldn’t make it print out, you find you have agreed to a monthly charge for a membership.

I was probably in a hurry at the time of the first order, but I do not remember seeing anything like this page, so I wonder if first time orders are different.

Debra’s Answer

Readers, please note that this post is not about the quality of product or customer service of the website mentioned, but a widespread practice of adding another offer at the end of your order.

I approved it for posting because I have gone through this myself and want to alert you about it.

When you get to the end of your order and are offered these savings coupons or similar offers, resist temptation and just click through to complete your order. They are buying clubs that don’t sell green products. They will charge your credit card every month until you cancel.

I’m not talking about when a company gives you an offer to buy another of their own products as you are completing an order, but when you are given an offer that takes you outside the realm of the company. Just read it carefully.

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Question from HG

Debra,

I was wondering if there is any way to test whether my carpet is still off-gassing. We have carpet in our apartment that is approximately 15 months old. After learning about the harmful effects of carpet off-gassing I decided to start looking at new apartments to rent. We live in Miami and have found that the majority of apartment units in our neighborhood are either fully carpeted or are partially carpeted, and the other primary flooring option seems to be marble (rather than hard wood which is what I wanted). Our only concern regarding marble is that we have a newborn baby and I am concerned about her slipping and hitting her head on the marble floor as she learns to crawl and walk. Therefore, I am trying to weigh the harm of carpet off-gassing against the harm of possible slips on marble. Do you know if there is any way we could find out if our carpet is still off-gassing or if it might be safe to remain in the apartment that we are currently in? Any insight would be much appreciated.

Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know of a do-it-yourself test for carpet outgassing. It usually has an odor if it is outgassing, but the odor could diminish and it could still be outgassing.

Also, there is something called “olifactory fatigue” which means that your nose can stop smelling an odor, but it can still be present. So you can’t really rely on your nose in your own living space. Your nose would be more reliable if you were away from your home for a few days.

Readers, anyone know of an outgassing test for carpets?

There are indoor air quality specialist who can come in and measure with instruments, but this costs thousands of dollars.

I would say, offhand, that your carpet is still outgassing after 15 months. It takes years, depending on the carpet and the conditions.

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Question from Lisa

I have two twin mattresses that have urine smells from a previous bed wetter. I still need to use these mattresses if possible. Do you know of anything I can use to remove the smell? I have tried a natural enzyme spray, along with sunshine, that has not worked.

Any advice anyone has would be much appreciated. I really don’t want to have to throw these mattresses away.

Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Suzanne Ferris

Hi Debra,

So happy to have found you, love your website.

I purchased a sofa and love seat from Jennifer Convertibles. Right from the start the most horrible odor and worse, allegic reactions, itchy, coughing, etc. I finally got them to remove it after 2 weeks and thankfully have gotten my money back but it took a lot of effort.

Most of the odor is gone, (after 5 weeks out of my house) and the allergic problems are better but still there. I’ve had the windows and doors opened almost 12 hours each day, plus 3 fans. How can I totally get rid of the smell and allergic problems. I’m very concerned about what I have been exposed to.

Thanks for any and all help.

Suzanne Ferris

Debra’s Answer

You’re doing it.

The way to remove odors is to 1) ventilate and 2) use heat. Since you are ventilating and having success with that, continue. If you want to, close everything up and turn up your central heat as high as it will go (remove people, plants, and pets). That will help, too.

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Question from Marcia

Hi Debra:

My neighbor who has had lung surgies and pulmonary issues for many years along with asthma recently got some new Ikea furniture for her bedroom. She also got a Chinese screen made out of painted white wood from another company. So that makes a big dresser, a round table by the bed and the Chinese screen all installed in her bedroom in one day. She immediatley got an asthma attack and has not been able to sleep in the bedroom for almost a week now. She did remove the chinese screen and put it in her garage, but the other furniture is too heavy for her to move herself, so it’s still in her bedroom. She wanted me to ask you if in your opinion you feel it will outgas in a fairly short time, or do you think she should get rid of it?

I told her that I would write you about it. My thoughts are that she needs to get it out of her house and garage immediately.

We would appreciate your suggestions Debra and of course from any of the readers. Right now she’s sleeping downstairs in her place on an old blow-up bed!

Thanks so much!

Debra’s Answer

I think she should get rid of it. In my experience, it takes quite a while for furniture to outgas.

I think she should get some help to remove the new furniture from her bedroom, air out the bedroom and move back in.

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Question from Bonnie Johnson

Hi

I will be spending the winter at my sisters while they work on some remodel issues at my house. She has a Select Comfort bed. I looked at the Q&A but did not see anything about these beds. Could someone give me some info?

Thanks

Bonnie Johnson

Debra’s Answer

Readers, anyone have some info or experience. The website makes no mention of materials, so I am assuming they are not natural.

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Question from Deborah Barnett

Debra, Do you know of a sealer that keeps water out around the floors of your basement? My sister told me about dry-lock that you can paint on and it turns your concrete white. Butd i dont know if its toxic or not. Do you have any ideas? Thanks Deb from tenn.

Debra’s Answer

Readers, anyone have experience with this?

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Question from Ellen Yamamoto

Does you know of a good waterproof table cloth alternative to the plastic or vinyl table cloths?

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from LB

I am interested in having lightweight plates, bowls, and cups that would be particularly appropriate for using outdoors (picnic style, if you will). I’d rather not use plastic and am considering enameled tinware and am interested in what life cycle, health, etc. issues I should be considering with this choice. Thoughts?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have a full lifecycle analysis of enameled tinware, but here’s what I can tell you.

Tinware is made of sheet steel coated with tin. Enameled tinware has a layer of enamel. It is extremely durable and can be reused for many years, which is an environmental benefit. The environmental downside is that metal and enamel manufacturing is pretty toxic, even though the end result is quite inert.

Compared to plastic, I believe it is a better choice because it is less toxic and more durable.

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Question from papamaui

My German Shepherd dog has a beautiful glossy coat that stays flea and tick free with the following Daily Diet:

1 cup of Merrick Holistic Dry Food (she likes the Campfire Trout Feast best. If I can’t get Merrick, I buy whatever natural, holistic dry food is available.

1 Ground Sirloin patty, RAW that I buy from Costco. They also have Ground Beef but it has a lot more fat content.)

2 fresh eggs RAW from our range free chickens mixed in,

Supplements: 4 GARLIC CHEWABLES and 2 FRESH FACTORS tabs that I buy from www.springtimeinc.com. (I use a large kitchen knife to reduce the tabs to a coarse power and add 1/3 to 1/4 cup warm water and stir to make the gravy.)

I live in Hawaii and fleas and ticks love our year around tropical climate and this diet does the job better than anything I’ve ever tried! I don’t use any commercial flea or tick products at all.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Susan

I am remodeling 2 bathrooms and I want to make sure I am doing it as least toxic as possible. I have a small child with special needs who does not have a strong immune system.

My contractor told me he typically uses Tec Full Flex (latex modified thin set mortar) for floors and Tec Double Duty (ceramic tile adhesive for walls & floors) for walls. What are the least toxic alternatives to these products?

Also, what other products should I purchase and have on hand to ensure a safe remodel?

There are sooo many products out there so any and all advice is GREATLY appreciated!

Susan

Debra’s Answer

The most complete answer I can give you is to direct you to my ebook Debra’s Guide to Creating a Green Bathroom. It shows exactly what I did in my own bathroom to make it nontoxic and eco-friendly, including a list of all the brand name products I used.

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Question from Catherine

Hi,

I am trying to offgass a room that had been painted with regular paint three months ago, the smell is still very strong and cannot go into those rooms. I read someones comment here a while back that the heat needs to get just over 100* to work.

( I cannot find the post)

I have tried to find a way to do this but am not having any luck. All the space heaters have thermostat regulators that only go to 80* or they use propane (thats not going to happen:)I desperately need to get this done so I can live a relatively normal exisistance (and that is putting it gently:) if you have knowledge of what heaters will work and where I can get them I would appreciate the help.

My friend said he worked in an autobody shop and they used infrared heaters, but would not know how or where I could get on to use.

Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

I just use a space heater or the central heat. And it doesn’t need to get to 100 degrees.

But it shouldn’t take three months. Exactly what kind of paint did you use?

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Question from chris

Okay, need a little help. My bassets have been fed Flint River Ranch dry dog food all their lives. Like everything else it has gone up in price significantly over the past year…around $68.00/40#. I have been laid off of work and I need to re-examine expenses in all areas of my life to sustain. I am thinking about seeking out another brand of dog food that is less expensive but provides a comparable nutritional diet. Can you make a recommendation?

Unemployed Chris

Debra’s Answer

Readers? (I don’t have a dog).

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Question from Reenie

I saw packets of a product I think was called Damp Rid at a home where I was green cleaning. It smells a lot like moth balls. Is this stuff safe? Toxic?

Debra’s Answer

According to the Damp Rid MSDS, the freshener pack is mostly natural bentonite clay, plus a little silica gel (glass is silica), and a few polyethylene fibers ( which are not toxic).

MSDS generally don’t list any fragrance that may be in the product, as it is not considered hazardous by the MSDS regulations.

Aside from any fragrance, there’s nothing else in this product that is a toxic chemical. These ingredients are listed as a dust hazard.

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Question from ELISABETH the next Great Performer

people wonder WHAT they can freeze safely in – HERE’s THE answer

VACUUM SEALED Wide Mouth KERR JARS

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

&

VACUUMM SEALED-Brown paper wraped BIG food -put into big zip locks that are rinsed 5 X to get off surface residues & smell

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

Debra’s Answer

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Question from liz

Hi Debra and other readers,

Looking for a non-toxic daybed, settee, or sofa, and found one at www.eco-terric.com/linden-daybed.html.

Does anyone out there have experience with this product or others from that company, or, if not, a suggestion for high-quality but not designer-priced wool and/or latex-based living room furniture?

TIA for your reply, and, thanks to Debra for the site.

Liz in Virginia

Debra’s Answer

I have personally seen this furniture on display and found it beautiful and well-made as well as nontoxic. I would buy this furniture myself if I were in the market for furniture. I don’t have any long-term experience with owning it. Readers?

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Question from Melissa D

Hi Debra,

My HOA decided to repaint the parking lots in my townhouse community with some foul-smelling, tar-like substance that is sprayed out of hoses. It smells HORRENDOUS, especially since it is 90 degrees here in Maryland with VERY high humidity. It nearly knocks me over when I open the door. I am wondering if you know how long it normally takes for this stench/toxin to dissipate?

I have a toddler who loves playing outside, so I have been confining him to the deck…but now it smells back there, too.

My kitchen faces the parking lot, and I feel nauseous when I sit at the table (like right now).

Any thoughts on how toxic this stuff is?

Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions – I appreciate your time!

Debra’s Answer

I would say very toxic, but it is likely to cure fairly fast in the hot summer sun.

Any possibility you could stay someplace else temporarily, with family or a friend, or, best..how about a little seaside vacation where there is clean air?

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Question from Polly

Debra,

I received an email about those baby carrots that are so convenient. The ones I buy are labeled Organic. The email said that during processing baby carrots were rinsed w/chlorine, and then w/potable water. I wanted to know what the implications of that would be from a health standpoint. They’re a standby for most mothers who want their children to eat vegetables.

Debra’s Answer

Where are all these emails coming from about food rinsed in chlorine?

I would say it’s a good certainty that this is true for non-organic carrots.

It’s probably not true for organic carrots, though these may be rinsed in chlorinated water.

Just make a general assumption that any produce you purchase prewashed in plastic bags probably has some chlorine residue on it. Your best option is to buy organic produce and wash it yourself in purified chlorine-free water.

I can’t tell you what the health effects might be of eating produce washed in chlorine. It would probably be about the same as drinking chlorinated tap water.

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Question from SVE

I’ve been keeping track of the “Sewing Machine Oil” thread on Debra’s website because I have an old 1960s Singer that uses the standard petrochemical oil that is difficult for me to use because of the off-gassing of the oil while I try to sew.

My daughter bought a Brother sewing machine a couple years ago at Costco that was a special with a coupon. She said Costco seems to have this sale each summer (July or August?). I sat down beside her while she was running the machine and didn’t seem to have a problem with it although I’ve heard that new machines use oil, too, and they are made of plastic. I plan to borrow her machine for a couple weeks to see what happens, then buy the Brother on sale this summer if I don’t have a problem with it. But I’m pretty leery about my plan (that I may not carry out!).

Does anyone who is chemically sensitive use a new sewing machine without having problems with the oil or the plastic? Debra, what hazards should I anticipate with a new machine? Do you know if any sewing machine brands are better than others?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have personal experience with this. Readers?

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Question from Annette Tweedel

Hi Debra,

Is it okay to use Rid-X in a house with a person who suffers from MCS? My husband puts it in the toilet. If it is not, is there something safer to use in the toilet?

Thank you so much.

Debra’s Answer

Rid-X should be fine for you to use. For those of you who don’t know this product, it’s an enzyme product used as an aid for septic tanks.

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Question from Annette Tweedel

I got this email from greenfeet.com on garden hose and wanted to find out what you thought about it. Is this garden hose really safe? GatorHyde Drinking Water Garden Hose

This kink-resistant GatorHyde drinking water garden hose is tough enough for commercial use, yet flexible enough for the home gardener. Nickel-plated ends and premium, recycled polyurethane prevent harmful chemicals from transferring from the hose making it the only hose on the market that’s drinking water safe*. The Gatorhyde drinking water garden hose is made from 50% recycled polyurethane. It’s lightweight and as strong as its namesake.

Compared to the leading garden hoses, the GatorHyde Garden Hose is twice as light and three times as durable. Whether you live in an area with extreme weather or are somewhere with a milder climate, this environmentally friendly hose can withstand temperature changes without losing its flexibility. Tangle, kink and abrasion resistant, it’s a snap to coil and store when you’re done using it.

Washing the car and watering the flowers just got a little bit easier.

*Use common sense. All hoses can come into contact with harmful chemicals like those used with nozzles, garden sprayers or chemicals used to treat lawns. The inside of a hose is dark and damp – perfect conditions for a bacteria soiree. It’s recommended you run the water until it’s cool before drinking.

200 PSI working pressure

Debra’s Answer

Greenfeet has good standards for choosing products.

If it is food-safe polyethylene, that would be fine. It says “50% recycled polyethylene,” what is the other 50%?

It certainly would be safer than other hoses that are not designed to be safe for drinking water.

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Question from Dana

Hello,

I am looking for natural remedies for spider veins. Has anyone found anything that works?

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Hope Fox

My husband and I are researching Insulated Concrete Forms for our soon-to-be constructed ‘safe house’. Do any of you with MCS have a specific brand of ICF that you can recommend (or not!)?

We are interested in using ICFs for our walls (we have no basement in the design) – we live in upstate NY so we need a well insulated wall system.

I have read endless debates on green building websites regarding the safety of polystyrene used in many ICFs, as well as the blowing agent used to expand the styrene beads, and the flame retardants that are often added. I want to get beyond the theoreticals and hear directly from people with MCS. My husband is gung-ho and ready to use IFC’s…. I am worried about the safety, but can’t find anything to recommend that would be better. We live in a very eco-conscious town, and lots of folks have used Ecoblock brand and Rastra, and contractors know how to install them.

We briefly considered AAC (aerated autoclaved concrete) but it does not really have enough R-value to be of much use in this climate, and the nearest distributor appears to be in Georgia and no one uses it around here.

There is an Air Krete installer in our town, but I wasn’t sure what to use on the interior/exterior cladding and for framing that would be nontoxic, not smelly, and be combatible with the Air Krete.

We expect some level of offgassing to take place despite our best offorts, and are planning to install an HRV/HVAC system.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Laura

A few weeks ago I went down to the basement to get garden tools and I was overcome with the chemicals of an ant pesticides that had just been sprayed!. A few days later the rec room (garage) was sprayed. Now, the garage is where I had the things I need to grab in my hasty departures from this house – boots etc. and my boxes of books had been put in the basement (which I had gradually been sunning and sorting.) Are those things redeemable if I air them out? I know this is a guess, but how long before it might be safe to go there? Summer and sunny weather here is very short.

Debra’s Answer

Actually airing and sunning the books would help remove at least some of the pesticides. It’s worth a try.

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Question from Linda

Hi Debra, love your website, I am on your site everyday. I recently found out that after chickens are slaughtered they are rinsed with water and then they are dipped in a chlorine wash. Perdue, Tyson and even Giant Eagle’s Nature’s Basket brand are treated with chlorine. Is this safe?

I just switched to Whole Foods house brand, it is not organic, but is free range, airchilled. Is organic chicken and free range chicken dipped in a chlorine solution? I am not even sure if it is safe, maybe it is, i am just so confused about why every thing is so polluted with chemicals. Perdue assured me there is no residue on the finished product.

Please tell me if it safe to eat chicken and turkeys that are processed this way. USDA recomends a chlorine wash, that is what the companies told me. Please help me understand. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

OK. Here is the link to the USDA National Organic Program: http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/nop. This is the place to look up any questions you have about what is allowed in organic food and what isn’t.

The Regulations are in the right hand column, under General Information. Click on “Regulations.” The Regulations also reference the “National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances” which is above the Regulations, under “I Want Information On.”

Chlorine is not a prohibited substance in organic food production, however, the amount of chlorine in the water must not exceed the amount of chlorine allowed in the Safe Drinking Water Act. So it seems that straight chlorine bleach could not be used, although I couldn’t find that specifically in the Regulations.

A “chlorine wash” is a low-concentration chlorine bath used to kill micro-organisms that may cause illness. The idea behind organic chickens is that they would be raised to be healthier and with better hygiene, therefore not needing the chlorine wash.

I read a blog where people were complaining about the chlorine smell on chicken and others were recommending buying organic.

We buy Coleman organic chicken and have not noticed any chlorine smell.

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Question from Linda

Hi, Debra, I love your website. There is so much great info on your site for everybody.

I have a question, it is very simple, I use organic white distilled vinegar that i buy at whole foods 365 brand, and it gets expensive to use as much as i do, i use it for cleaning only, heinz distilled is so much cheaper, so my question is is it worth paying extra for organic vinegar for cleaning?

The reason i buy organic is because i am afraid that non organic distilled white vinegar could contain pesticed residues, does it? I have tried to research pesticide residue in distilled vinegar but i could not find any info. I clean my whole house with vinegar, i am afraid if i buy non organic i would be spreading pesticides and other chemical around my house. THANKS FOR ALL THE WONDERFUL INFO.

Debra’s Answer

I use Heinz vinegar for cleaning. We buy in it gallon bottles. Do buy Heinz, as it is made from plants. Some cheaper brands are made from petroleum.

I’ve never noticed any problem with it.

It’s always a better choice to buy organic anything because the pesticides used to grow non-organic plants get into the environment and eventually into our bodies, one way or another. But often the product itself does not have pesticide residues because they are removed during processing. I just smiled because I realized that it “second hand pesticides” are much like “second hand smoke”–the smoker is inhaling the smoke through a filter in the cigarette, but the bystander doesn’t have a filter, so their exposure is worse. Likewise, by the time most products are processed, there is very little pesticide residue (except for produce or flowers, which are not processed), but the pesticides used go into the environment full strength.

I do buy organic apple cider vinegar to eat.

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Question from Mattie Brown

A friend wrote me about Xygen Air as a way to reduce odors in the house. Is is safe? I have read that one should not be in a closed area with Ozone. Even if it reduces odors, does it take away the pollutants that make me sick?

Debra’s Answer

First, the best thing to do to clean the air in your home is to reduce pollutants at the source. Number two is to just open the windows and use ventilation to bring in fresh air and move pollutants out.

I took a look at the Xygen Air Rejuvenator. It’s basically a negative ion generator and an ozone machine. The negative ion generator removes particles from the air. Chemical fumes “piggyback” on particles, so removing particles does remove some chemicals, but not all. Over my years of research I’ve come to the conclusion that carbon and HEPA work better as air cleaners, but I have no objection to negative ion generators if you want negative ions in your home.

As for ozone, what is good for your body is oxygen. Ozone is made up of three oxygen molecules bonded together. The XygenAir “outputs ozone at the rate 25 milligrams per hour, and fills the air with activated oxygen.” I’m not sure what that statement means. Sounds like it is emitting ozone, but the ozone would have to break down to turn into oxygen. I don’t know enough chemistry to evaluate if that is a true statement or not.

If you want more oxygen, get some fresh outdoor air, not an ozone machine.

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Question from Nicolette

Hi there. Does anyone know the general rule of MDF furniture & the gassing off period? I am contemplating buying this Pottery Barn coffee table & media cabinet, but some of the panels & shelves are MDF, they admit.

I am considering asking if I could buy their floor model, thinking the gassing off would have already occurred. But my biggest question is: Does MDF gass off FOREVER? Or does it go away over time, say a few days or months or whatever.

I’ve searched the internet & can’t really find a definitive answer. I’d be willing to purchase this furniture & let it gas off outside my home even for a while if I know that’s all I needed to do.

Thank you to Debra & anyone else who can help me decide on whether to buy this beautiful “looking” furniture, or not.

Debra’s Answer

MDF is Medium Density Fiberboard. Like particleboard, the wood bits are held together with a formaldehyde-based resin that will outgas formaldehyde.

It’s impossible to predict how long it will take to outgas, as the time is dependent on how much formaldehyde is in the MDF (there are low-emission MDFs, but we don’t know which was used to make the furniture), the temperature, and humidity.

Personally, I wouldn’t buy it.

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Question from Patti

I live across the street from a Cotton Field also and, thankfully, they no longer do crop dusting, but they still spray poison and I get hives intermittently if exposed to the poison. We often get sick, as in sore throats when they spray the defoliant. Are there any ways to protect the house as far as the air goes?

Debra’s Answer

Can you move?

You would have to make the house air tight and filter all incoming air, but I personally wouldn’t want to live in a house where I couldn’t open the window and get fresh air.

Can you tell us more about what’s being used on those cotton fields, how often they spray, etc?

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Question from Sue Smith

Does anyone have an opinion on Rainbow vacuum cleaners? We had a demonstration which was very convincing. We especially like the fact that it cleans the air as well as floors & furniture.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Susan

I am trying to purchase on-line a pair of non-polarized sunglasses, but every pair I look at says that it is coated with iridium. I have MCS and wonder if I would be allergic to this coatting, were I to purchase it. I am disabled and. I can’t go to a store and try on sunglasses of any kind. Does anyone who reads this post have experience or knowledge of iridium coating on sunglasses (or on anything in general). Any answers or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Connie

Hello, I wondered if someone out there can recommend, or point me in the right direction, as to an air conditioner – window unit or portable that might be tolerable for a chemically sensitive person (me). Many, many thanks!

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Greyson

I am considering replacing my amalgams and I am looking for a filling material that is safe for someone with MCS. I have looked at past posts and having done the usual dental biocompatibility tests. I agree that they are not accurate enough, although possibly good as a starting point. From what I have read, the process of placing a sample of the possible dental material in the mouth for an extended period of time is probably the best method of testing biocompatibility. The material I am leaning towards is “high noble gold”- high content of gold with only one other metal, platinum most likely, because of sensitivities to plastics. Any experiences with this? Any success stories and the materials used would be appreciated.

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Question from KS

I’m staying in a house that had wool carpet laid in January. It’s still offgassing and is making me ill (respiratory symptoms, headache, burning lips). I think it’s the underlay and backing that’s the problem. The carpet wasn’t glued, and wasn’t treated for mould or insects.

Is there any way to speed up the offgassing? I am keeping the main room heated and leaving the outside door open as much as possible but it is winter here so not so easy.

Would steam cleaning help?

Is there a sealant for wool carpets?

thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Steam cleaning won’t help.

There is a carpet sealant made by AFM Enterprises. You should check with them to see if it can be used on wool carpet. But I don’t know this will help if the underlayment and padding are the problem.

You’re doing the right thing by using heat.

Is there someplace else you can stay?

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Question from Pat

I am stil looking for a sealent to use in the bathtub around the drain. My old one wore out and plumber’s putty is way to toxic. I’ve been told to look for a product called Dow Corning 732 multipurpose silicon sealent with no biocides. But I can’t find it in a store. Does anybody know about this stuff? Or something else that would work?

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Cindy

I just returned from my local farm market. The lady I buy eggs from said she rubs them with mineral oil to make them shiny and keep them from absorbing odors from the refrigerator. I said to her “isn’t mineral oil petroleum based?”. She said no, it’s very safe and she implied it’s a common practice to rub the eggs with mineral oil. I didn’t want to argue without more info, so I came home and goggled. Yes, eggs are washed with mineral oil, food grade of course, FDA approved.

Here’s a description from www.eggcartons.com – it explains why this is done:

The surface of an egg shell is covered with thousands of microscopic holes which makes it quite porous. A natural coating referred to as the ‘bloom’ helps seal the holes, preventing bacteria from entering. As the egg ages, the bloom is worn away, which allows moisture to slowly escape and air to enter, forming the ‘air cell’. Bacteria may also enter, and contamination may result. When eggs are washed to remove germs that may be on the surface the bloom is also removed, so a thin coating of oil is applied to take the place of the bloom. This works in the same way as the bloom, keeping the contents fresh for longer periods. The bloom also provides eggs with a natural luster or shine. Mineral oil not only protects your eggs as a sealant but it also restores the luster, the shine of the egg.

Food Grade Mineral Oil makes a great egg shell sealant. One method to preserve eggs is to warm the oil so it is as warm as your hands can work comfortably. To apply the oil, dip clean cloth in it and wipe the egg so that every bit of the shell has been coated. We carry a hand spray (see additional items) use of this hand spray makes coating eggs quickly and more efficiently. After coating the eggs place them (small side down) in egg cartons or egg trays and store in a cool place. The eggs should keep at least 6-8 months.

This food grade mineral oil is an odorless, tasteless, crystal clear, food grade white mineral oil. It meets or exceeds requirements of US FDA regulation 21 CFR 172.878 and CFR178.3620(a) for direct and indirect food contact. It meets or exceeds standards of the US Pharmacopoeia (USP) and the National Formulary (NF). It meets standards for approval as H1 and 3H lubricants for use in food processing plants under the jurisdiction of the USDA. This product is also Kosher approved. It is the lightest viscosity of mineral oil we offer. Great for use in Cosmetics, Health and Beauty, Bee Mite Control, and Many More Applications.

Debra – I eat a lot of eggs. Isn’t the mineral oil absorbed thru the shell into the egg itself? Should I be searching for eggs not washed and treated with mineral oil? Or am I over reacting?

Debra’s Answer

Yes, mineral oil is made from petroleum. There are apparently different grades of mineral oil with different levels of purity. Small producers such as your egg lady at the farmer’s market may or may not understand this. If she didn’t know mineral oil is made from petroleum, she may not know the difference between food grade mineral oil and the stuff you buy at the drug store.

In Guidelines for Certification of Organic Eggs and Meat Birds by Vermont Organic Farmers (VOF) Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont, I found the following:

To me, the above means that whatever you put on the shell of the egg will get into the egg. Chlorine (sodium hypochlorate) is allowed, but so are other substances, so we don’t know which is used unless we ask. So eggs may be chlorinated. Hydrogen peroxide would be fine. Sodium hydroxide is lye, not toxic, but caustic (an eat through skin). Sodium carbonate is washing soda (OK). Peracetic acid, in simple terms, is like a mix of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, so that would be OK.

Note it says that mineral oil may NOT be used on eggs because it can permeate the shell. This, however, is only the regulation for this particular organic certification group in Vermont. I tried to find the national USDA standard for eggs, but couldn’t find them easily (readers, if you can find these, please post a link).

I would venture to say that non-organic eggs are most likely coated with mineral oil. Organic eggs probably are not. But it’s best to ask this question of your egg producer, and also what they wash the eggs with. Here’s where is IS a good idea to buy eggs at the farmer’s market, because you can ask the farmers directly. It’s OK with me if you want to print my response here and take it to that farmer who is putting mineral oil on her eggs. Does she sell them as “organic”? I don’t know how much mineral oil actually gets through the eggshell. I don’t think you’re overreacting. Obviously, these organic farmers think it is enough of an issue to not allow it. It’s considered a “food additive.”

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Question from Edy

My doctor wants me to use a re-breathable mask for EWOT. I’m worried about that it is made from plastic. Is there any way that I can offgas this by heat? I don’t want to be breathing any fumes from it. I don’t know what type of plastic it is, but assume it isn’t something an MCSer would want to be breathing.

Thanks, Edy

Debra’s Answer

First, for those of you who don’t know what EWOT is, it’s Exercise With Oxygen Therapy. What’s that? It’s the use of oxygen as a health supplement to enhance athletic performance or simply to bring the body’s oxygen needs up to normal. It seems there are a wide variety of health effects that are a result of oxygen deficiency (see EWOT – Exercise with Oxygen Therapy,

I wasn’t able to find out what type of plastic an oxygen mask is made of, however, oxygen can also be delivered via a “cannula” (search on “oxygen cannula” for online sources), which is just a little piece of hard plastic that fits in your nose. This would be much better than a soft plastic mask. I just visited a friend of mine in the hospital this week, and she had a cannula.

Hard plastics outgas much less than soft plastics as a general rule.

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Question from Jean W.

My husbands office at work was painted with low VOC paint, and now it is chipping.

Can anyone tell me why this would be happening?

He doesn’t know what brand was used since he wasn’t there when the work was done.

Thanks for your help.

Jean

Debra’s Answer

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Question from YH

Hi,

I would like to live in a place where most houses and buildings have tile or hardwood or other safe floorings and not carpet. Otherwise, it is really hard to find a job or house to live in where there’s no carpet. I think the hotter a place is, the less people install carpet in homes and businesses, right? So other than Texas, what are the states where most houses have hardwood or tile floorings and not carpet?

Heat is another problem. A lot of houses use forced air furnaces, and dust, mold, and other pollutants come out of the vents. I am allergic to dust. If a person smokes in a room, another person can smell it in another room. Radiators are better, but most newer places don’t use radiators anymore. What are the states where most houses don’t use heaters or forced air furnaces?

Air conditioners can also emit dust, but I am not sure. Some houses have both central heat and air. Other than radiators, what kind of heat is better for our health? Electric heat is good, I suppose. What kind of AC is the best?

I would like to move to a place where most houses have hardwood or tile flooring and no forced air furnaces.

Debra’s Answer

Well, that would be the South. Here in Florida, many houses have ceramic tile floors throughout because that’s the coolest. We have hardwood and ceramic tile.

Many houses here do not have central heating because it is rarely needed. Most houses do have air conditioning.

But you can also take out the carpet and install any flooring you want. Likewise heating and air conditioning. You’re not stuck with what is in a house. You can always change it.

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Question from YH

Hi,

Does reverse osmosis filter remove all minerals from the water or remove some minerals? Or does it leave the mineral content intact? I heard that it makes the water more acidic… I can’t drink distilled water or water filtered by Culligan or other machines that use many filters (activated carbon + reverse osmosis + UV light + micron filter), because most of the mineral, if not all, are removed by the machines.

I want to live in a city or town where the water is not fluoridated. Is there a website or somewhere to find places that don’t have fluoridated water?

Debra, do you use a reverse osmosis whole-house filter? It removes chloramine and fluoride, right?

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

Reverse osmosis as a rule removes all types of particles, but not 100% of them. Most of them, but not all. Depends on the system. It makes the water more acidic.

In Nature, spring water contains lots of natural minerals because it has gone through the soil, where it picks up minerals. Rain water is “distilled” because it goes through a cycle of purifying evaporation from the earth and condensation in the cloud before it returns to earth. Historically, spring water has been valued to a point of being spiritually revered. Re cities without fluoride: San Jose, San Diego, New Orleans…for more you might try contacting Fluoride Action Network.

I do not use a reverse-osmosis filter. Mine removes fluoride, but leaves the minerals. For more information on my filter, contact Winston at Go Beyond Organic.

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Question from Fran H.

My elderly aunt just moved into an assisted living facility. This is the type where each person has a small apartment, but there are common living and dining areas. She has lung disease and is very sensitive to odors and chemicals, and is bothered by the plug-in air fresheners used in the common areas and hallways. The facility tried removing the air fresheners but the air smelled stale. Does anyone know of something that would continuously remove odors without adding odors or chemicals to the air? Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

I’d say more ventilation.

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Question from Jen

Hi,

I was wondering what you thought of California 93120 compliant for formaldehyde, phase 1?

www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2007/compwood07/fro-final.pdf

I just purchased a small wood shelf that I thought was solid but apparently it is not but it did have a small sticker on it stating the above (even though I am in CO).

Debra’s Answer

I didn’t read all 59 pages, but it appears to be a phase-out program. Compliance with these regulations does not mean NO formaldehyde, nor even safe levels of formaldehyde. It looks to be a gradual decrease of formaldehyde in certain wood products from now through 2012.

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Question from BL

I have a 10 year old house built on a concrete slab that has developed mold around the base of the toilet under the white vinyl. While it might be overkill, I’m having it safely removed and the floor cleaned before putting down new flooring. What are the safest, non-toxic (no VOCs), environmentally friendly flooring options for a bathroom? Can you also recommend the safest adhesives, etc. that are needed for those options? Thanks. BL

Debra’s Answer

I would use good old ceramic tile. Any glazed ceramic tile will do (that is, one with a shiny or matte surface, not a porous tile like Mexican pavers).

Lay cement backerboard first, then mortar, then the tile, then grout. Use the grout sealer from AFM Enterprises, as it is completely nontoxic.

Ceramic tile is nontoxic, waterproof, and durable.

Question from Carla

Hi Debra,

I have read that you can seal the off-gas in particleboard, by using a nontoxic sealer, is this true? My husband wants to build some furniture and the formaldehyde free particleboard is 3x as much, so I was trying to see if there were other options.

Thanks,

Carla

Debra’s Answer

True and not true. There is a sealer that can be used to seal particleboard, made by AFM Enterprises. I have used it in the past and it works.

However, I would not call it a “cure-all” for particleboard. When I used it, I used it to seal one small piece of particleboard on a table that was otherwise solid wood. I don’t know how long this seal lasts, so I can’t guarantee that it will last as long as you use your cabinets.

My best recommendation would be to use a material other than particleboard.

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Question from Deborah

Debra, Im checking out a site, live superfoods.com, and come across a product called lakanto from body ecology. It looks like a good product but would like you to check it out. Listing says gmo free erythritol and sweet extract luo han guo fruit, anti carcinogenic, reg-blood sugar, prevent and decrease oxidative stress related to diabetes, prevents tooth decay, inhibit tumar growth, antioxidant, antihistiminic, 300 times more sweeter than sucrose zero glycemic index, zero additives, zero calories, one to one sub for sugar. This site has more to say about this sugar. thanks deborah from tenn.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t recommend erythritol (see Sugar Alcohols). I see no problem with Lo Han from a health viewpoint, but I found it so difficult to use that I didn’t pursue it as a viable everyday sweetener.

I prefer to stick with the whole food natural sweeteners. But this would be a better choice than refined sugar or artificial sweeteners.

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Question from Dianne

Hi,

Little Tykes playhouses, slides, play structures are made out of polyethylene and polypropylene. You said that polyethylene was one of the safest plastics but I was wondering if you know about polypropylene.

Thank You Very Much!!!

Debra’s Answer

Polyethylene and polypropylene are two of the safer plastics. In this use, they would outgas very little, if at all.

I’m not concerned about toxic exposure from breathing these plastics.

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Question from Jill

Has anyone tried/tolerated a Mica Panel Electric Space Heater? Can severe MCS people tolerate these? Any feedback on brands/models: Bionaire, Delonghi, or Soleus?

Thank you!

Jill, New Jersey, USA.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from KJ

Thank you, Debra and the readers, for all the valuable information so far. I have relied on this site for all of my questions through my major renovations to improve our home.

Now, I have a major concern about the new AC duct work that was installed. I was not educated enought to ask right questions before hand.

They installed new formaldehyde free flexible ducts, but they also used distritbuion boxes made with duct boards (fiberglass boards). These are the boxes to connect multiple flex ducts going into different directions.

The fiberglass surface faces the inside where the air flows through.

I found out that the fiberglass surface is sealed (glued) with something that contains formaldehyde. Even worse, the joints and seams where they had to cut and connect with other flex ducts are not protected with this glue, and the fiberglass dust can come loose overtime and get blown right into our living space.

I am so concerned about this issue.

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Question from Laura

The deck of the house where I live is going to be sealed with Thompson’s. I requested a non toxic sealant to be used, but my parents refused – they will use what they have on hand.

My bedroom, the stairway and kitchen are all on this side of the house. How long will it take to cure or will it continually outgas? It had been done last a few years ago shortly before I arrived and I seem to remember conpletely avoiding the deck, closing the door to the deck, closing my bedroom windows, especially in the morning sun.

Debra’s Answer

How long it takes for anything to outgas depends on the original toxicity of the material and the conditions. The hotter the temperature, the faster it will outgas. Also, being outdoors, the sun and other elements will aid the outgassing.

Thompson’s is particularly toxic and will continue to outgass for quite a while. This is could be a significant exposure to toxic chemicals for you.

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Question from Lauren

Dear Debra & Readers,

We recently painted our interiors with Yolo Colorhouse Paints. It is supposed to be Zero VOC and we even went out of our way to tint it with Zero VOC (from a Eco store not Kelly Moore). I know Zero VOC does not mean Zero Toxicity. I usually do my homework but this time I didn’t do my usual due diligence. We didn’t choose dark colors, the colors we picked were Air 01, 03 & 04 and Leaf 01, most were in eggshell, baseboards done in semigloss and we used their transitional primer for the baseboard, and part of the kitchen as it had oil based paint prior (just a few areas). Anyway, it was painted over the past Memorial Day weekend and most of it was done by Sunday of that weekend. A few days later, it still wreaked paint, I could only be in the house for a few minutes as it would trigger respiratory issues and a migraine that wouldn’t quit. So, we tried Debra’s bake out method for 3 days and airing out for 4 days (with fans blowing etc). Not knowing, we did leave a few cracks open in the window. Debra’s bake out method was very helpful and I was able to be there for an hour before my body started to react. Every day, it is improving. I did contact the retailer who swore it is nontoxic, I was surprised she thought that, she thinks Zero VOC means Zero Toxicity (not realizing that there is unregulated VOCs that could be in there).

I finally contacted Yolo and they asked for batch numbers and even want me to ship some samples back. I was impressed with their willingness to look deeper. However, they say there is no solvents and they can’t understand why I am reacting. They share that they normally do well with the chemically sensitive which was news to me.

They sell these poster size paint samples (painted by real people which was impressive) and when the paint was mixed they actually painted it on my poster to match the color, what was odd was that splash of paint they put on to match the poster sample still smelled a week later. Normally, I would have painted only one room or just put a little patch on the wall before painting an entire home (so unlike me to do this). I think the fact that someone I knew painted their home with conventional paint and I barely noticed the smell… made me illogically think that Zero VOC must be even better!? The good news is that the empty paint can after 9 days stopped emitting, the house is smelling better, I can now stay in for a few hours but a long way from living there 24/7 (we are still living in a hotel). I live in San Francisco Bay area (Peninsula) so the weather is mild. I wonder if anyone else had this experience with Yolo paints. I spoke with someone who recommended that I wash the walls with baking soda (wipe down), using 2 buckets (clean vs. dirty bucket method) which I will try this weekend. I do feel like it will improve a matter of weeks as every day it seems to dramatically change but I am still puzzled why the conventional paint my friend used did not smell after one day!

Yolo I found out later is manufactured by Kelly Moore in Hurst Texas… had I known this prior I would not have purchased Yolo… this makes sense why Kelly Moore sells the line even though I did not buy it there (I bought it from a Eco type store that uses Zero VOC tints). Yolo claims that Kelly Moore is only their toll manufacturer and Kelly Moore produces to their spec and claims it is not a Kelly Moore product. But, it’s not hard to wonder since Kelly Moore is not a “eco” or green or health minded company. Hmmm….

Wondering if anyone else had this experience with Yolo? Yolo also claims that acrylic resin is the same as latex paint, I thought they were different!

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Marcia

Hi Debra:

The other day I tried out a mattress at a company called Ergo Cusdtomized Comfort in Irvine,which is in Orange County, Calif. They carry the Natura bed and a bed called the Silhouette Sleep Solutions bed. It comes on a slat suspension which consists of two parallel rows of responsive steam-cambered beechwood slats mounted into strong thermo-plastic shocks. According to the brochure, they give just the right amount of give and support for the body. The bed is solid natural latex foam which they say is pure Talalay Latex and comes in a 6″ or 8″ core range of firmness choices. It has an organic stretch cotton cover and states that it’s inherently hypoallergenic, bactericidal and anti-fungal and also has lightweight wool lining and doesn’t need to be turned or flipped. I was wondering if you have heard of this bed and what your opinion is. It came with a mattress topper and felt fairly comfortable. The did say it wasn’t completely organic,but I’m not sure what that means. I also did try the Natura bed which is completely organic, but it didn’t feel quite as comfortable. I would love to know if any of your readers have either of these beds and what their experiences are.

Thanks so much as always!

Marcia

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Michelle Clark

My daughter will start school next week and we need a sleep mat. I would like to find an organic one. She already sleeps in all organic bedding/bed/mattress, and it only seems appropriate to have an organic mat for school. any suggestions?

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Miemiemuis

Dear Debra

I love having the windows open, but since we live in Florida we don’t want to let the house get too hot and humid. My husband is also allergic to pollen and since I have small children I don’t want open windows at night for safety reasons. Our house is fairly new and tight and I’m concerned about indoor air quality. So, to improve indoor air quality, I was wondering if it is worth it to have our A/C changed to let filtered outside air in. We do have a good air filter that we change often, but I am concerned that the outgassing of new construction is polluting our indoor air and not going anywhere.

Thanks for your help

Debra’s Answer

You mention two factors: air conditioning and new construction.

You don’t say how toxic the new construction is.

New construction requires ventilation, so it would be a good idea to have more outdoor air coming in.

However, you can speed the curing of new construction by using heat. You might want to try a bakeout (instructions are on page 395 of my book Home Safe Home, under the head “Curing a Sick House.”

That said, it never hurts to have more ventilation.

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Question from Ruth Ruddock

Hi Debra, the following bit of a note is from a long-time friend who had pretty severe MCS over the years…she is almost totally free of it now after having moved from many years here in Wisconsin to Montana. I had written to her asking about the heat source in the nice condo that they owned here, thanking that surely she must not have had gas forced air heat. Her reply surprised me and offered some encouragement, since I may end up sharing a condo or duplex with my sister-in-law who wants to move back here from Arizona. Was wondering if you would comment on this heat thing for me, too. I once read somewhere that is is so much harder for someone with MCS to recover when they have gas forced air heat. Sounds like there are some exceptions?

Here is my friend’s note: “We did indeed have a gas forced air

furnace in the condo. I was apprehensive at first, but Neil assured me that the new 98%efficiency model that we had installed would have no adverse effects on me. And he was right!

All the ignition air came from outside and was returned there…and I never had a bit of problems.”

Thanks for your comments on this, Debra.

Ruth/Wisconsin

Debra’s Answer

The problem with gas heat is gas leaks and combustion by-products. If the gas is not leaking and is properly combusted, it’s not a problem. Sounds like your friend has a new efficient model that is OK. This does not mean ALL gas heat is OK. Things have changed recently with gas heaters being more efficient.

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Question from catadelle

Hi,

I am MCS and have to replace my car window. I am worried about the VOCs in the adhesive and how long it would take to offgas.

How long am I going to need a rental car (another issue in itself) Are there any safer adhesives meant for car windows ?

I will ask them to be extra carefull not to slather it on the interior.

Anyone with experience on this?

The one positive is the weather is nice right now and the car gets hot so I can offgas.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from JeanineDC

I’ve been looking for new chairs and I found some I like that are made of Hirek polymer. One of the websites said that they were 100% non-toxic, but I really could not find any more information on them or on Hirek specifically. Have you heard of it? What is it exactly?

Debra’s Answer

I couldn’t find anything on this either, except a lot of chairs made from it.

Readers, any ideas where to find information on this plastic?

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Question from Kathy Kane

We just made the switch from analog to digital and in the process switched our Cable TV provider from Cablevision (copper wiring) to Verizon (fiber optics). As a result of this process, we now have a digital box and a router. My body/mind does not like this new setup.

A tech gentleman suggested that we turn off the router as an experiment. This improved things somewhat, but even with the router, TV, and digital box unplugged it affects me in a negative way.

The only options for cable where I live are Cablevision, Verizon, and Direct TV (satellite). Even if I went back to Cablevision I can’t return to the baseline what with the switch from analog to digital technology. My TV is not setup to receive a cable card.

Any suggestions or comments? Educated guesses as to what would likely be the safest option? Thanks so much.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any experience with this?

Question from laa

Hi Debra,

We recently purchased a high-quality featherbed (made from polyester, “down alternative”). Trying to relieve hip pain from a saggin innerspring mattress.

Well – the pain after the first night was the worst I’ve had in years – I sunk way, way down into the featherbed (in the hip area) – much worse than sleeping on my old mattress alone.

My question: Would a wool topper (Shepherd’s Dream has a nice one) be more firm and not sink so far down? I know wool is good for pressure point pain relief – which is what I need – and I know it compresses. But will it actually have a deep, deep “hole” after sleeping on it one night?

Thanks! Also – have heard some people say wool has a strong odor (Vivetique organic mattress with organic cotton, wool and innerspring – no rubber of any kind – has received quite a few complaints). Your opinion?

Debra’s Answer

I had a featherbed once and stopped using it because my body weight pushed the feathers aside as I slept and made a hole, which kind of defeated the purpose.

I have a Shepherd’s Dream wool topper on my bed and it does not make a hole like a featherbed. The wool stays in place and offers cushioning night after night, year after year.

I have not noticed an odor from the wool used in my bed. Shepherd’s Dream will send out samples of the materials, so you can try that before you buy.

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Question from Laura

I have a white enamel basin that I use for laundry and a floot bath. There were a few rust patches when I got it second hand and I would like to know if there’s something nontoxic that I can use on them to keep them from eating through the basin. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? What’s your experience?

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Question from Martha

Have you ever heard of HealthyBond-MS Flooring Adhesive by EcoTimber? We are going to be putting down bamboo flooring on concrete and are looking at adhesives. I know you personally have used Titebond II and we are considering this but also looking at what else is out there.

I’ve looked at the MSDS for this product and it seems to shows 0.0lb/gl for v.o.c Is this just rounded down? I’ve seen on other products where it is g/L. On the Titebond II it is 5.5 g/L.

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

MSDS looks fine to me. Write back and let us know how you like this product.

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Question from Rebekah

My husband bought a used washer and dryer, thinking it was a great deal and that it would help my laundromat related allergies and illness. Unfortunately, he bought the washer and dryer from someone who ran scented detergents and softeners through them for years! I don’t think he understands my sensitivity, and even after hours of cleaning the machines, the smells are nauseating to me. I don’t want to even think about running any of my clothes or linens through the machines until I can get the odors out. Is there anything I can do other than re-sell these machines?! My husband thought he was doing me a great service and was hoping to recieve thanks and appreciation; instead I’m frustrated and slightly angry that his “great deal” turned into a huge ordeal for me and my chemical sensitivity. Will anything take out the overpowering chemical perfume odors that have obviously permeated the plastics of these machines?! Thanks in advance for any help, advice, or tips.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? What’s your experience with this?

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Question from Renee’

I have been very sick since Thanksgiving and your book Home Safe Home has been very helpful. I am seeing an Int. MD who treats naturally; my neurotransmitters are very sensitive and we are slowly, getting them back to being ok! In the meantime, I discovered black mold and water in our crawl space which is below our family room!! A plumber helped resolve this issue and we used your Borax Solution. Although we do need to do it again!! The wall between the crawl space and out doors had basically deteriorated because of the poor, drainage under a very, large deck that came with the house when we bought it 18 years ago. The wood above the brick foundation has now been replaced; the deck has been removed and we are in the process of putting in a screened in porch and correcting the water drainage problem around our house!!

The problem is that we thought adding mulch to the house would help with the problem; we were wrong! So, I have been told that we need to get the dirt/mulch removed so that the first brick is exposed and so air can circulate. Our house has steel siding on it!

Now the question – one solution is to buy anodized aluminum and to attach it below the siding tented with dirt under it and dirt and mulch on top. It would be slanted away from the house so that the water would go away from the house. My handyman and the landscape/concrete man met yesterday; and the landscape person recommended hand digging along the two sides of the house that need this and putting in a drain tile (PVC) which woudl be connected to the drain that is behind our house in the next neighbors yard. The PVC put up a red flag for me and they convinced me at the meeting yesterday that it would be ok because it was in the ground.

I have tried to find the answser in your book – Home Safe Home; but, couldn’t come up with a comfortable solution. A part of me feels that the aluminum tent should be sufficient since I believe in the rapturer is not that far away! What are your feelings about the options and do you have any other options?

Is it true the PVC would be ok for my plants, birds and me since it is buried in the earth and that I only need to be concerned with how he plans to connect the PVC pipes? I know they used PVC on my wholehouse filtration system. It was amazing what is in the City of Racine’s water!!

So glad to find you!!

Debra’s Answer

My husband tells me that using the PVC pipe drain is standard procedure for the problem you describe and that it is necessary to completely handle the problem.

Though PVC is one of the most toxic plastics, it is commonly used underground. It will not pose a direct health danger to you or other living things in your immediate environment when buried underground (though it does cause environmental harm elsewhere when it is being manufactured, and it is not biodegradable).

Often we need to make trade-offs. My opinion is that in your case, it’s more important to handle the mold problem in your house. It wasn’t built correctly in the first place.

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Question from Kristen

Hi Debra,

We recently purchased a savvy rest serenity organic mattress for our daughters. We LOVE these beds but they have a smell to them, it’s not a chemical smell, it’s a latex smell. Will a regular mattress cover keep the smell away? Can I wrap this bed in bed covers that you have recommended for other people? Any thoughts would be great.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know what will block latex mattress fumes.

I can’t tolerate the smell of latex either. But I did get some latex strips for my wood slat frame under my wool mattress. They had an odor when they arrived and I put them out in the sun for about six weeks. By then, the odor was gone and I have been sleeping on them successfully since. However, this is just latex, with no covering on it, so the sun could work on it. I doubt putting your mattress in the sun would have the same effect.

Readers, any experience with this?

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Question from laa

Hi, we have to buy a new mattress – and it looks like we’ll have to buy a conventional innerspring (my husband does not want to take the risk of buying online, and not being able to return it if it’s too firm, or if we react to the organic cotton batting.

These traditional mattresses scare me so! My question is: would a wool topper (love the ones we see on Shepherd’s Dream website) be enough to help put distance between us and the toxic fumes (breathing them in, etc)

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Toxic mattresses release fumes that are gasses, very minute particles that require a material with very tightly bonded particles to block them. A wool topper is simply wool, which has a lot of space between strands, cased in cotton cloth that is not very tightly woven. Gasses can pass right through.

There is a material called “barrier cloth”, sold at Janice Corporation that is very tightly woven cotton fabric. Many people use this to block fumes from mattresses, in fact, Janice’s sells barrier cloth mattress covers. I personally cannot vouch for their effectiveness (readers, feel free to chime in with your experience).

I don’t think using a barrier cloth cover makes a synthetic mattress equivalent to a natural mattress. It’s still sleeping on plastic and there are the environmental effects to consider as well.

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Question from Miemiemuis

I was wondering whether hardboard contains any formaldehyde. I’m fixing an old wood dresser and the bottom of the draws are hardboard/pressed wood that urgently need to be replaced and I want a replacement that will not off gas anything toxic. Should I seal it?

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

That piece of wood at the bottom of dressers is usually pressboard, which is made by simply steaming small wood chips together under pressure. The natural lignins in the wood stick together of their own accord, without any additional resins. Masonite is one brand name of such wood. It does not outgas.

Particleboard, on the other hand, is made by mixing wood chips with a resin that contains formaldehyde, and the formaldehyde outgasses from the particleboard over time until it is gone. Depending on conditions, this can take years.

Question from YH

Hi,

I know that natural fiber is better, but they are quite expensive… I have a polyester (feels like down) and polyrathane (memory foam) pillow. Which one is better? I think not using a pillow is worse than exposing myself to formaldehyde… my neck would be sore.

Do cotton pillows contain pesticide or herbicide? You said that cotton batting has pesticide residue. Is there some kind of chemical in wool pillows? How can I make a pillow myself? Seems hard…

There are also pillows made of other stuff such as buckwheat, millet hull, etc. Have you tried those? Which “ingredient” do you recommend?

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

Polyester is less toxic than polyurethane, but by giving you this answer, be clear that I am NOT recommending polyester pillows.

Cotton FABRIC, organic or otherwise, does not contain pesticide residues, even if pesticides were applied during growing. Cotton BATTING (the fill in the pillow) does contain pesticide residues if it is not organic. So it’s important that the fill of organic cotton pillows be organic, but not so important to health for the case (although pesticides from growing cotton do come to us indirectly through the environment, so organic cotton is always the better choice).

I have not tried all the pillow fills. My personal favorite is wool because it is resilient. Readers, what are your favorites?

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Question from Alison

Hi Debra,

Three months ago, my single paned windows were replaced with double paned vinyl framed ones in my very small apartment. I haven’t been able to live there since. If I go in even briefly, I begin to have trouble breathing, and this has triggered a pretty bad chemical sensitivity in me.

The outgassing is gradually improving, but nowhere near livable. I’m wondering if there’s a way of remedying this situation. So far what seems to be helping the most is heat, but what else might help? Some people suggest ozoning, but I’ve seen some negative comments about that on your blog.

Thanks so much!

Alison

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Anyone have experience with this?

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Question from Cheryl

I am looking into purchasing a Step2 plastic playhouse made from low density polyethylene (#4)and I’m wondering if it’s safe for my kids…does it off gas VOC’s? Is it bad for the air quality in my home if used indoors? Would my kids be exposed to harmful chemicals just merely playing in and contacting the playhouse even outdoors?

Debra’s Answer

Polyethylene is one of the safest plastics. I have no concern about your children playing with it.

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Question from Merle

The top load non agitator washers are computerized. I can’t get an answer from Whirlpool or salespeople whether I can simply soak my toxic clothing (from a day’s outing), spin out the smelly water, then put through a rinse cycle before starting a complete wash.

It’s been suggested the steam would remove odors, but I suppose that is satisfactory for non sensitive people.

Also, has anyone with MCS purchased these products? I don’t think they have rubber or other toxic parts, as do the front loaders. The tubs are stainless. Is a porcelain lid necessary?

Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated before I purchase this costly washer and dryer. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Susan

We just recently switched from oil to gas. Our basement reeks of oil and go knows what else. There are no visible spills and the pipes are capped. Any advice would be most appreciated! THANKS