Here at Clean Air Solutions, we aren’t shy about sharing our passion for clean, fresh, oxygenated air to breathe. Why?
Well, one reason is that just 12 months ago, a new research study confirmed what scientists had long since suspected: oxygen levels are dropping worldwide at a rate of about 0.7 percent per year.
While currently the impact to us is deemed minimal, it is a trend worth watching and reacting to.
Taking proactive, preventative measures to keep your own air supply as fresh, clean, and oxygenated as possible will keep your body healthier, your mind sharper, and your life more enjoyable no matter what tomorrow’s forecast may bring.
In this article, we take a timely look at some of the most common indoor toxins that are often hiding in plain sight in the average home. Then we tell you what to do to send them packing!
Choose New Furnishings With Care
Who doesn’t love a good home makeover? Change a rug here, repaint a wall there, add some new wood paneling and voila—the you’ve got something fresh and new!
Unfortunately, many of those new additions are chock-full of toxic chemicals that get released into your indoor air supply.
Here are just a few examples:
- Carpeting. Many carpets are made with chemical adhesives, pads, and treatments that can cause mild to severe health symptoms. If you’ve ever breathed in that new-carpet smell and wondered what causes it, now you know: it is a complex chemical cocktail of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The best workaround is to choose all-natural fiber carpet that is certified as “low emission” or opt for hardwood or tile instead.
- Paint, stains, and sealants. Another common source of potent VOCs is new paint, stains and sealants, and varnishes. Here again, look for paints and sealants that are certified as low VOC.
- Mini-blinds. Plastic, vinyl, and composite mini-blinds can emit toxic VOCs and phthalates, which are harmful to adults, children, and pets. Here, look for “green” blinds that are made from eco-friendly materials or opt for natural fiber draperies instead.
Rethink How You Clean Your Clothing
Isn’t it lovely to just drop off your clothing at the dry cleaner and then come back later to pick it up? It is so easy and convenient, and your clothes look and smell great!
There is just one tiny problem. That “dry cleaned” smell actually comes from a potent chemical called perchloroethylene (PERC), a VOC with known neurological side effects.
Here, there are three possible fixes:
- Take off the plastic covers and air out your dry cleaning outside until the smell dissipates.
- Use an eco-friendly dry cleaning that contains only natural cleaning products.
- Recommit to cleaning and ironing your clothing at home.
However, if you opt for the third fix, you still need to do three essential things to keep the chemicals out of your indoor air!
- Choose only all-natural, eco-friendly laundry products (soap, vinegar, softeners).
- Clean out your dryer lint after every load.
- Have your dryer vents professionally cleaned to reduce airborne toxins and fire risk.
Finally, if you are still using mothballs to protect and store your seasonal clothing, it is time to find a new approach.
Mothballs are highly toxic. One of the principle ingredients is paradichlorobenzene, a pesticide that is known to affect major organs and the central nervous system for both people and pets.
A natural alternative to moth balls that is safe and repels mosquitos is cedar chips. Also, lavender, citronella, eucalyptus, cinnamon, camphor, cloves and rosemary (either in dry leaves or essential oil forms) can all send moths and other pests packing with no negative impact on your health or that of your pets.
Reconsider Your Personal Care Routine
The bath and shower products market is thriving to the tune of $15 billion dollars in sales annually.
And it is no wonder—it feels so great to start and end your day with the pleasant scent and soothing feel of your favorite bath and body products!
Unfortunately, many popular personal care products in wide circulation today are made from highly toxic chemical ingredients. There is nothing worse than finding out you have been cleansing with chemicals, moisturizing with chemicals, and even detoxifying with toxic chemicals!
But one glance at the ingredients list for the average major label bath product will convince you of the truth of this statement. From here, you can take steps to adjust your daily routine to cut out dangerous chemical-based products and replace them with healthy, natural care products instead.
Here are some tips:
- Look for organic products made from all-natural oils, herbs, and plants.
- Read the ingredients—if there is anything you can’t pronounce, skip it.
- Choose care products made for babies, since these must conform to stricter standards.
- Switch from air fresheners and perfumes to essential oils.
- Choose products with just a handful of ingredients—the shorter the list, the better.
- Find cruelty-free products, which are those that have not been tested on animals.
- Add more houseplants to your home to keep your air naturally fresh without any products at all!
Give Us a Call
Here at Clean Air Solutions Hamilton, it is our life’s work to detoxify life for everyone we serve in the Hamilton and surrounding areas.
Right now, you can save 20 percent on your purchase of any whole home HEPA filter, U.V. filtration system, heat recovery ventilation system, or humidification system.
Just complete this easy online form or call us at 905-544-2470!
