Finding Truly "GREEN" Products For You - Navigating The Sea Of Green

The demand for environmentally-friendly products is at an all-time high. This is not only in the building market but in the clothing and food industries as well. As the world wakes up to the lasting value and joy of using healthy building materials, we fully expect this trend to continue for a long time to come. But with this new demand, companies create buzzwords and claims that crashed over the retail market with a wave of greenwashing to stay competitive. We hear terms like "we're green", "Eco-friendly", "green certified", "environmentally friendly", and "green products" all the time these days. So what exactly is greenwashing and how can you navigate this sea of green products hitting the shelves? Here's some helpful info you can take to the bank!  

Greenwashing: "Disinformation disseminated by an organization so as to present an environmentally responsible public image." 

Seven Signs of Greenwashing

1. The Hidden Trade-off: A claim suggesting that a product is ‘green’ based on a narrow set of attributes without attention to other important environmental issues. Paper, for example, is not necessarily environmentally-preferable just because it comes from a sustainably-harvested forest. Consider the other important environmental issues in the paper-making process, such as greenhouse gas emissions, or chlorine use in bleaching may be equally important.

2. 

   No-Proof: An environmental claim that cannot be substantiated by easily accessible supporting information or by a reliable third-party certification. A common example is products that claim various percentages of post-consumer recycled content without providing evidence. 

3. Vagueness: A claim that is so poorly defined or broad that its real meaning is likely to be misunderstood by the consumer. ‘All-natural’ is an example. Arsenic, uranium, mercury, and formaldehyde are all naturally occurring, and poisonous. ‘All natural’ isn’t necessarily ‘green’.

4. False Labels: A product that, through either words or images, gives the impression of third-party endorsement where no such endorsement exists; fake labels, in other words. 

5. 

   Irrelevance: An environmental claim that may be truthful but is unimportant or unhelpful for consumers seeking environmentally preferable products. ‘CFC-free’ is a common example, since it is a frequent claim despite the fact that CFCs are banned by law.

6. Lesser of Two Evils: A claim that may be true within the product category, but that risks distracting the consumer from the greater environmental impacts of the category as a whole. Organic cigarettes could be an example of this, as might the fuel-efficient sport-utility vehicle.

7. Fibbing: Environmental claims that are simply false. The most common example is products falsely claiming to be Energy Star certified or registered.

So now that you know the top greenwashing tactics used how do we find the truly green products you need? Here are the top 4 questions to ask before you make your purchase. If you can't find and these answers on your product's supplier website, then they might not be as green as you think.

What am I buying?

When it comes to buying heavy-duty items like building materials, stripping and cleaning chemicals, or automotive care products, a little more consideration into what you're buying goes a long way. Look for safety data sheets or SDS info on these types of products and find out what health and environmental impacts these products really pose. Will it create pollution when used or discarded?

Where is it made?

Supporting local companies has many benefits including strengthening the local economy and reducing environmental impact. Local businesses recirculate a greater share of every dollar in the local economy, as they create locally owned supply chains and invest in their employees. These businesses often make more local purchases for their products too, requiring less transportation and outsourcing. They typically consume less land, locate closer to residents and create less traffic and air pollution. All of this leads to less congestion, less habitat loss and less negative impact on the environment.

How is it made?

Take the logistics and production process into consideration. For example, you may purchase a green product made out of recycled goods. However, if that product was made with environmentally harmful methods, it make not be as green and sustainable as you may think. Truly green products are manufactured using toxic-free ingredients and environmentally-friendly procedures and are certified by recognized organizations like Energy star, Forest Stewardship Council, etc.

How is it packaged?

Some products are eco-friendly from one perspective but not from another. For example, they may be made of recycled materials but include lots of unnecessary or non-recyclable packaging. Green packaging typically is locally sourced and made from recyclable materials. It reduces your carbon footprint and environmental impact. 

When we make the effort to identify and support companies producing truly green products, it fosters a retail market with continuous improvement towards consumer and environmental health. Sustainability and environmental improvements are a collaborative efforts. Your purchase choices can make a real difference. By supporting companies implementing changes for the better, you will have a smaller carbon footprint and help reduce the number of toxins released into the environment. Future generations ultimately benefit from improved air and water quality, and fewer landfills.

EZ Strip is one such company that makes product transparency a priority. They provide truly environmentally friendly paint removal products, share SDS info, and break down how their company and products are safer for consumer health and the environment. Visit EZstrip.ca today and get truly green removal products that you can count on. 

DIY Friendly Painted Ceiling Texture Removal

Removing drywall textures that have been painted can be very difficult and EZ Strip has the DIY solution that can help! Drywall textures have many names to describe the style of texture but they are all created with drywall mud compounds. So no matter if you have popcorn, stomp, swirl, orange peel, knockdown, or any other name for your texture most are all the same when it comes to removal. Mud compound by itself is a water-soluble material that can be removed with just water. However, once it has been painted which is often the case it becomes very difficult to penetrate with homemade water solutions. 

EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover is a dust free removal gel solution that will penetrate through multiple layers of paint and soften your drywall texture. Below is everything you need to complete your removal project. Be sure to watch the how-to remove video at the end!

YOU WILL NEED:

1. EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover            (coverage is approx. 120 sq ft per gallon)
   
2. Painters Tape
3. Plastic sheeting (thin/light plastic is better)
4. Container for the product (bowl or bucket)
5. Wide brush
6. Step ladder
7. Broom
8. 6 - 10 Inch mud spatula
9. Paint tray
10. Clean cloth
11. Water 

In just 4 easy steps you can remove that bumpy lumpy impossible to clean texture off your ceilings with EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover! No matter the layers of paint or type of texture you need to remove, if it's on your ceilings or walls, drywall texture has never been easier to remove yourself!

Here's how it works... 

Extra Tips and Tricks

Shake well before use.

1. APPLY EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover to your desired area using a wide paint brush or roller.

Make sure you apply a thick even coating of EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover to the entire  entire treatment area for best results.
 
Do not overload the brush or roller during the application and apply in manageable sections to avoid the product dripping during application.

2. COVER the applied area with plastic and LET SET. A thin roll of painter's plastic is perfect for this. Tape the edges as you go and a second pair of hands is always helpful! Plastic will keep the product wet and working during your set time. Use a broom to help push air bubbles out of the plastic. 

If the product dries out during the set time it stops working so get it covered as soon as possible for best results.

Set times can vary depending on your project. 12 hours to an overnight set time is the most recommended for easiest removal.

3. SCRAPE the surface once material is softened. Be sure to find the right angle and use a wide scraper (at least 6 inches).

Catch the material in a plastic-lined painter's tray for easy clean-up. The material should scrape off easily on its own but you can always lightly spritz the area with water as you scrape to help the process. Remember to be careful on how much water or you spray as this can damage the drywall.

Scrape along the tape seems. You do not want to remove these or too much of the material that keeps them together, just the textured material on top!

4. WIPE the surface clean with a damp clean cloth or flat mop. Ensure the cloth is ringed out as too much water will damage the drywall.

Wipe surface clean of any remaining product and let dry out completely before patching and painting.

Remember that texture could be hiding imperfections in the drywall or you may gouge the surface during scraping so be prepared for touch- ups before you paint!

Remember:

• Use a wide brush for a quick application.
• Smooth out any air bubbles in the plastic for a better set.
• Test a small patch before you scrape the whole area. Let the product do the work for you and don't scrape until it’s ready. 
• Spritz with water during removal to keep the product moist while scraping.
• Scrape carefully so you don't damage the drywall paper lining.
• Scrape along the tape seems (the joints between drywall boards) and be careful not to remove them.
• Wipe the surface with a damp white clean cloth and let the surface completely dry before patching and painting.

EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover works on all kinds of drywall textures!

                                                              

Smooth ceilings and walls are just around the corner! Now you can get there on your own with a little knowledge and some elbow grease. Work in manageable sections, do the prep before you start. Put up plastic anywhere you don't want to be stripped, protect your walls (if not what you want to be stripped) and floors! Make sure you have all the tools you need before you start.

Renting complicated sanding equipment can be expensive and messy! EZ Strip Popcorn Ceiling Remover gives homeowners the chance to take back their ceilings with a low VOC dust free option from EZ Strip!

Update Your Home Today! Find EZ Strip @ EZstrip.ca

5 Eco-Friendly Ways To Remove Paint

Removing or stripping paint from any type of surface is seldom an easy job. Every surface takes paint differently and every type of paint reacts differently to the surfaces. Add in environmental conditions and paint removal takes a bit of study and, usually, some elbow grease to accomplish.

For years, most professional painters and do-it-yourselfers have relied on harsh chemical-based paint strippers. While they can do a good job, many are also highly toxic to humans and the environment. Improper use of chemical strippers can cause damage to the respiratory system, brain, nervous system, and skin.

One of the worst offenders and potentially deadly chemicals in paint strippers is methylene chloride. Major home improvement stores have pulled products that contain the chemical from their shelves, but it is still readily available.

Here are some DIY friendly paint removal options — that are kind to the environment and your lungs:

1. Dibasic Ester-Based Gel Paint Removers

One chemical achievement that is not yet widely known is the creation of Dimethyl Esters (also known as Dibasic Esters and DMEs*). They are readily biodegradable, low odor, low VOC solvents used in a wide variety of industrial and specialty applications. Dibasic esters are excellent solvent substitutes in many cleaning and stripping applications. Use of dimethyl esters and dibasic esters continues to increase due to their positive economic, environmental and performance characteristics. 

One company taking this chemical evolution by storm is EZ Strip. Providing safer solutions to chemical stripping, cleaning, and developing new removal technologies that could change the renovation and restoration industry as we know it.

2. Soy-Based Gel Paint Removers 

Soy-based paint removers contain methyl soyate, a methyl ester distilled from soybean oil. This bio-based solvent is much more sustainable and environmentally-friendly than petroleum-based products. It is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), has a low flammability, and no ozone-depleting chemicals. Safe to use on wood, concrete, and metal, soy-based gels work effectively but take a bit longer to lift the paint from the surface. 

3. Citrus-Based Paint Removers

Citrus-based paint strippers contain terpenes, organic compounds derived from plants, usually oranges. Another example of a terpene used in paint removal is turpentine produced from pine resin. Citrus-based removers typically have an orange or citrus-scent and, like soy-based gels, work more slowly in removing paint than stronger chemicals. They are safe to use on any painted or varnished surface. While these strippers are biodegradable, they do still contain some harmful chemicals and should be disposed of properly.

4. Manual Paint Removal 

Skipping any type of paint stripper may seem like the most non-toxic method to remove paint. Unfortunately, there are still some hazards from the paint itself, especially lead paint in older homes. If you choose to manually remove paint, always test for lead first and be sure to wear a mask, safety glasses, and other protective gear. There are several methods you can employ to manually remove paint.

Scrape away paint: Using a plastic or metal paint scraper is effective in removing peeling paint, but must be used carefully to prevent damaging the surface under the paint.

Use a heat gun: A heat gun can be used to loosen paint to a point where it will eventually bubble making scraping easier.

Sand away: Using an electric sander or manually removing paint with sandpaper takes patience and skill. Take care not to sand too deeply or the surfaces will be permanently marred.

5. Boiling Water & Baking Soda 

This technique works only with metal hardware, but it’s one of the easiest of all the paint removal methods. Here’s how to make this eco friendly paint remover:

• Simply place your hardware in a pot of boiling water.
• Add baking soda to the pot.
• Boil the mixture for 20 minutes.
• Finish the job by lightly scrubbing the object with a toothbrush.

TIP: Be sure to use a pot that you will not ever use for cooking to remove paint from the hardware!

Using boiling water to remove paint is an old trick. It works because metal and paint expand at different rates when heated — causing the bond between the 2 materials to break. Although using boiling water alone will sometimes work, some people swear by using a small amount of baking soda in the water — and it definitely won’t hurt to put some in.

Before you tackle a paint removal job, take time to read the labels on commercial paint strippers. In addition to methylene chloride, active ingredients that are potentially dangerous to your health include toluene, methanol, ethanol, and acetone.

There are less-toxic paint removers on the market. If you choose to use a chemical-based stripper, choose a formula that is less volatile and toxic. Read the instructions carefully and always wear protective gear including safety glasses, gloves, and a mask when recommended.

Thank you for reading! If you liked this then you might like some of our other blog posts. Be sure to subscribe to our blog at https://ezstripblog.blogspot.com/ and have a great day!

The Toxic Truth About Oven Cleaning

Cleaning your home with household cleaners and disinfectants can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Before you get out the cleaning bucket, make sure to take proper safety precautions so you don’t put yourself or your family at risk. Any cleaning product, even including air fresheners, could contain some hazardous chemicals that are not safe to breathe in. Oven cleaners are especially hazardous and can be harmful to our bodies due to the ingredients used in the product. 

The inside of your oven is among the dirtiest places in your home. Particles get baked into the sides and surfaces of the space. Since scrubbing this residue is so difficult, some people rely on chemicals to make the process less laborious. 

Considering the hazardous facts, you may not want to use your typical oven cleaner products — they could be toxic and contain the following chemicals.

Lye

It's the corrosive properties of this chemical that make lye a good cleaner; unfortunately, it’s far from a safe one. Skin and eye contact should be avoided, chemical-resistant gloves should be worn, and any oven scrubber should be aware that lye degrades organic tissue when moistened. 

Ethers

An ether is a member of a pretty large class of organic compounds. Ethers, such as medical ether, tend to be highly volatile (meaning you breathe them in), and also have solvent properties. Though nowhere near as dangerous as lye, working with ethers can still be irritating to your mucous membranes, and is best avoided. 

Ethylene Glycol

Simply put, ethylene glycol is what makes antifreeze deadly to any animal that might drink it, including humans. This compound, unlike lye and ethers, is fortunately only dangerous if ingested.

Methylene Chloride

Irritating, volatile, and smelly, methylene chloride is considered a potential workplace carcinogen. Given that information, why on earth would you want this in your house? Methylene chloride is a solvent, often used in paint strippers. It’s an excellent degreasing agent as well, so it makes sense that such stuff would be found in oven cleaner. But is a clean oven really worth the health risks?

Petroleum Distillates

Petroleum distillates is the general term applied to low to medium-grade solvents produced as a by-product from the oil refining process. Kerosene is an example. Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, include petroleum distillates and others. They’re only mildly toxic, though easily inhaled (hence the “volatile” part) and definitely unhealthy to be around.

Self-Cleaning Mode: Toxic Teflon

Now you might be thinking I don't need an oven cleaner cause my oven has a self-cleaning option. Turns out, most modern ovens, especially the self-cleaning kind, are coated with Teflon or a Teflon relative. If you’re not familiar, Teflon is a member of an extremely toxic family of chemicals. Originally touted as super-safe, Teflon begins to break down and release toxic particulates when exposed to temperatures higher than 464 degrees F, and your oven gets easily twice as hot when running a self-clean cycle.

How to Clean Your Oven Safely 

Fortunately for all of us, you will not have to resort to self-clean mode, nor harmful chemicals, to achieve a clean oven. One company taking a stand on harsh chemicals in household removers is EZ Strip. No matter if you have an old neglected oven or a new ceramic top that needs a quick clean, EZ Strip All Purpose Remover is the safer and efficient alternative. Here's the recommended How-To videos for oven cleaning with EZ Strip!

Cleaning Ceramic Top Ovens with EZ Strip

Cleaning Older Style (very dirty) Ovens with EZ Strip

Get all the removal power you need without the chemicals you don't. Thanks for reading if you liked this be sure to subscribe to the EZ Strip Blog and the EZ Strip YouTube Channel today!

NEW Methylene Chloride–Related Fatalities Discovered

A new assessment of Methylene Chloride (a solvent widely used in paint strippers, cleaners, adhesives and sealants) related fatalities in the United States between 1980-2018 was recently published online with Jama Internal Medicine. Researchers and physicians from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and UC San Francisco have found that deaths of workers using Methylene Chloride paint strippers are much higher than originally reported. 

Assessment Findings

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has acknowledged 53 fatalities connected to the chemical from 1980 to 2018. The new study identified 85 deaths over the same period, most of them occurring in occupational settings. The EPA banned consumer use of such products in 2019, but it still allows workers to use them. The study’s authors are urging the EPA to ban commercial uses. 

The Facts

Although US regulatory policies have mandated product labeling and worker protections, fatalities continue to occur, with a greater proportion of recent deaths related to the use of paint-stripping products. What's also troubling is that from 1985 to 2017, the American Association of Poison Control Centers documented 37,201 nonfatal Methylene Chloride cases. Real prevention of Methylene Chloride related injuries and fatalities starts with the use of safer substitutes. Based on the facts it is clear hazard warnings and reliance on personal                                                            protective equipment have not been effective.

What Happened

OSHA does not have the authority to prohibit the use of substances or chemicals; the EPA has these authorities under the Toxic Substances Control Act. In 2017, the EPA found that Methylene Chloride paint strippers posed unreasonable risks and proposed (but never finalized) a rule to prohibit these products in consumer and most commercial/industrial uses. In 2019, the EPA issued a final rule prohibiting consumer sale of Methylene Chloride paint strippers by the end of 2019, but the rule did not address commercial/industrial uses.

What Can You Do?

Support businesses providing safer alternatives to chemical paint stripping. Shop at retail stores that provide safer consumer and contractor removal products. Support companies developing safer removal technology and purchase their products. Source furniture refinishing services/companies working to reduce workplace hazards and environmental impact.  The battle for safer work environments and consumer products is not over and we can all do our part! 

Thank You for Reading

If you would like to read more posts like this be sure to visit and subscribe to EZ Strip Blog for all the latest and greatest.

Top 10 Awesome DIY Paint Projects You Can do This Weekend

Nothing makes a weekend more enjoyable than adding a great DIY project to make your favorite room pop! Introducing a splash of color or a new design feature can really change the whole feel of a home. If you are in need of some inspiration or are just looking for touch of dimension, take a look at these top 10 DIY paint projects.

01 Say Hello to Stencils

If you're ready to make a style statement with your accent wall, consider using a wall stencil to add a bit of depth into your accent wall. A wall stencil DIY project gives you complete control of choosing your favorite design and paint colors with an end result everyone will love! There are many simple DIY paint projects that creates big changes with a little bit of paint. To pull your room's design together, repeat your accent wall pattern with a matching area rug or pillow fabrics.

02 In With the Old, Out With the New

Even the most beautiful old furniture can benefit from a color makeover. If you have a piece of furniture that you love but are seriously wondering if it still fits your style, try this DIY paint update project. The key to a stunning paint makeover is adding a pop of unexpected color. For a hutch or buffet, painted shelves in a bold color are highlighted by a more serious color on the outside. A bookcase can be updated by painting the inside back or interior shelves with a pop of color. For a longer lasting paint job, safely strip existing coating first to ensure you are receiving the best results. You can count on EZ Strip Paint & Varnish Stripper to get the removal job done quickly and efficiently! 

03 Just a Splash

Painting over your plain white ceiling is a subtle way to add color to any room. Dining and living rooms are the perfect spots for ceiling color, especially with a trayed ceiling or decorative molding that separates the new paint color from the walls. Though painting your ceiling can be a DIY painting project, make sure you have the right tools and patience to complete your project!

04 Let's Add Some Fun

Dry Erase Paint will give you unlimited color options for a DIY writing and drawing surface in your home. Any kitchen, home office, or studio would be the perfect spot for a colorful dry-erase surface to help you stay organized or be more creative. Turn a piece of furniture, a section of your wall or door, into a colorful dry-erase board with just a few coats of paint. 

05 Chalk It Out 

Imagine the possibilities for your home when you try a chalkboard paint DIY project. Chalkboard paint can be used on walls, inside cabinet doors, and even on furniture. With the advances in chalkboard paint, you can now get it in most paint colors too!

06 Bright and Bold 

Updating your front door with a bright paint color is the top curb appeal booster for your home. Front door color inspiration can come from your garden, your home's architectural style, or your interior décor. Once you've chosen your color, you'll want to make sure you have the tools and the instructions for this DIY project before you begin. For a longer-lasting paint job, safely strip existing coatings first! My favorite safer stripper is EZ Strip Paint & Varnish Stripper!

07 Unexpected Dimension 

Your furniture doesn't have to be an heirloom or designer piece to be stylish. Laminate furniture can be transformed with paint. You can paint your laminate furniture in one great color, try a color-block design, or even a pattern. 

08 Trendy Accents 

Everyone knows that accent walls are one of the easiest ways to transform any room with color. Adding an accent wall is a simple way to add an accent color to a tired color palette, or add a focal point to a room without any architectural features. Any color can be used for your accent wall DIY paint project, but be sure to plan out your color palette first so that you can tie everything together. 

09 It's Time for a Makeover! 

Most two-story homes have a small bathroom downstairs that was designed for convenience. Though this bathroom may not be used exclusively by guests, there is no reason not to express your dramatic side by creating a stunning powder room.

The fun of decorating this tiny bathroom is that it is the one room in your home that doesn't have to "look bigger." You can choose whatever paint color you like as long as you have the right lighting. Powder rooms are where you can express your style without a thought to the rest of the house. Choose a favorite color, replace a boring mirror with a pretty framed one, and add decorative accents for a simple bathroom makeover.

10 Mix and Match 

Throw pillows are the quickest and easiest way to add a pop of color or pattern to any room. More than an afterthought, throw pillows are the finishing touch when you decorate a room. If you want to totally customize your space, try the throw pillow stencil designs from paintapillow.com. With their unique system, choice of modern and romantic designs, and fabric paint color selection, you can create a completely customized style at home.

Thanks for reading! If you liked this post and want some more of the good stuff be sure to subscribe to our EZ Strip Blog today.

Indoor Toxins: How To Reduce Exposure In Your Home

Recognize and avoid the most common toxins 

found in homes today.

Indoor air can have higher concentrations of toxins than outdoor air. Ironically, these chemical toxins come from the products we use to make our lives better.

Realistically, most consumers are unable or do not have the time or expertise to monitor products and materials for hazardous material content. But there a few simple strategies which can be taken to reduce exposure to toxins in the home.

• Know the most common toxins that are found in homes today
• Find safe substitutes, mitigate the hazard or do without the product
• Ventilate your home regularly, especially during the winter months

The Most Common Toxins Found in Homes Today

1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are a group of chemicals that vaporize easily and bring gas pollutants into the home from a variety of sources. There are over 400 compounds in the VOC family that have been identified in the home and of these over 200 can be found in carpeting. According to the EPA, VOCs tend to be even higher (two to five times) in indoor air than outdoor air, likely because they are present in so many household products.

Risks

Eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches, dizziness, visual disorders, and memory impairment; chronic exposure increases the risk of cancer, liver, kidney and central nervous system damage. Persons with respiratory problems such as asthma, young children, the elderly, and persons with heightened sensitivity to chemicals may be more susceptible to irritation and illness from VOCs.

Sources

New carpets and home furnishings, interior paints, paint removal products, particleboard, plywood and pressed wood products, new plastics and electronics, deodorants, cleaning fluids, varnishes, shampoos and cosmetics, dry cleaned clothing, moth repellents, air fresheners, and during the burning of wood stoves and tobacco products.

How To Minimize Exposure:

Avoid Products with High VOC Content: Look for “Low-VOC” and “Zero-VOC” paints and finishes for indoor painting. The same goes for paint and finish removal products. Buy solid wood, hardboard or ‘exterior grade’ plywood in place of pressed wood products. Establish a “no smoking” policy in your home. Consider buying antique furniture.

Ventilate: By increasing ventilation, you can lower the concentration of VOCs in your home. If new carpeting or vinyl flooring has been installed, or a room freshly painted, open windows and doors, and use a house fan to direct the room air outwards.

Allow New Products to Off-Gas Before Bringing Them Into the Home: If you just bought a new stuffed couch, for example, unwrap it and leave it in the garage for a couple of days before bringing indoors. Seal particle board or pressed wood items with varnish or paint before bringing them indoors.

2. Pesticides

According to the EPA, 60 percent of herbicides, 90 percent of fungicides and 30 percent of insecticides are known to be carcinogenic. Alarmingly, pesticide residues have been detected in 50 percent to 95 percent of U.S. foods.

Risks

Irritation of eye, nose and throat, damage to CNS and kidney, increased risk of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, miscarriage, nerve damage, birth defects, blocking the absorption of food nutrients.

Sources

Food (some fruits, vegetables and commercially raised meats), household pest control products and sprays, and some chemical lawn treatments which drift or are tracked indoors.

How To Minimize Exposure:

Establish A ‘No-Shoes’ Policy in Your Home: The simplest way to keep outdoor pesticides, especially lawn chemicals, from entering your home is to have family members and visitors leave their shoes at the door. This will also reduce the need for home cleaning. 

Avoid Using Chemical-Based Pest Control Products in the Home: There are safe alternatives for pest control available today which can effectively control most insect pests without the need for harmful chemicals. Pest control products with chemical formulations should be used only where the more benign product fails to remedy the insect problem.

Buy Fresh, Organic Produce: For the freshest organic vegetables, grow your own produce in a simple backyard garden. Or choose foods that are known to have fewer pesticides applied during the growing season.

3. Mold and Other Fungal Toxins

One in three people has had an allergic reaction to mold. Mycotoxins (fungal toxins) can cause a range of health problems with exposure to only a small amount.

Risks

There is no consensus among scientists about the health hazards of mycotoxins. Mycotoxins may have toxic effects ranging from irritation of mucous membrane to suppression of the immune system and cancer.

Sources

Contaminated buildings, damp areas with frequent temperature changes, airborne particles from furnace blower or air conditioning unit.

How To Minimize Exposure:

• Keep filters clean on heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems
• Remove any water sources to mold affected area; dry thoroughly
• Keep relative humidity below 60%, which may require a dehumidifier in some areas
• Store items with high cellulose content (newspapers, drywall, cardboard) in dry areas

4. Phthalates and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVCs contain phthalates, a class of widely used industrial compounds known technically as dialkyl or alkyl aryl esters of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid. There are many phthalates with many uses, and just as many toxicological properties. These chemicals are used primarily to lengthen the life of fragrances and soften plastics.

Risks

Endocrine system damage (phthalates chemically mimic hormones and are particularly dangerous to children). Researchers have associated pregnant women’s exposure to phthalates with adverse effects on the genital development of their children. These risks may even prevail in low-dose exposure.

Sources

Plastic wrap, plastic bottles, plastic food storage containers, which can leach phthalates into our food. PVC in some consumer products such as vinyl flooring, drapes and wall-coverings, baby’s toys, shower curtains, blow-up air mattresses, cosmetics and fixatives.

How to Minimize Exposure:

• Check the label of baby products to ensure they are phthalate-free.
• When buying plastic products for the home, ask if they contain PVC or phthalates.
• Avoid eating food stored or microwaved in PVC plastic.
• Look for recycling code #3 or V to spot PVC products before they enter your home.
• Look for PVC-free draperies, window blinds and shades; choose natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wood, bamboo, silk or hemp.

5. Heavy Metals

Metals like arsenic, mercury, lead, aluminum and cadmium, which are prevalent in many areas of our environment, can accumulate in soft tissues of the body.

Risks

Cancer, neurological disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, foggy head, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, decreased production of red and white blood cells, abnormal heart rhythm, damage to blood vessels.

Sources

Drinking water, some seafood, vaccines, pesticides, preserved wood, antiperspirant, building materials, dental amalgams, chlorine plants, lead paints.

How To Minimize Exposure:

• Install water filters.
• Use cold water for drinking, making tea or coffee, and cooking.
• Avoid fish high in mercury, such as king mackerel, tilefish, swordfish, shark, orange roughy, and marlin. Limit consumption of tuna, especially steaks and canned ‘white’ albacore.
• If your home was built before 1978, check for lead paint.
• Avoid buying products made with PFC, such as Teflon cookware and Scotchgard.
• Avoid using treated wood (CCA or ACZA) on decks or children’s play structures.

General Strategies to Reduce Toxin Levels in the Home

While it is difficult to identify a specific toxin in the home and take appropriate measures to contain exposure to it, here are some general strategies to reduce the overall level of toxins in the home:

Only Use Natural Cleaning Products in Your Home

Most health food stores will have these available or you can make your own cleaning products using safe ingredients.

Avoid Using:

Avoid using artificial air fresheners, dryer sheets, fabric softeners or other synthetic fragrances as they can pollute the air you are breathing.

Establish a ‘No Shoe’ Policy in Your Home

To drastically reduce the number of pesticides and other chemicals that you may pick up outside, have visitors and family members leave shoes at the door. Residuals of toxic chemicals may last for years in carpets.

Avoid Using Lawn Care Chemicals

Residue is easily tracked indoors where chemicals can persist in carpeting and furnishings. Use natural lawn care methods which eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers and herbicides.

Avoid Using Chemical Pest Control Products

There are safe, non-toxic alternatives for controlling insect pests in the home, including many new non-toxic pest control products for the homeowner.

Use Low-VOC Paints, Removers, Caulks, Sealants, Finishes, and Carpeting

Look for low-VOC labelling on sealing and finishing products. Most major paint brands now carry ‘low’ and ‘zero’ VOC lines for interior painting. For low-VOC paint and coating, removers click here

Use Toxin-Reducing Houseplants

Researchers from NASA have identified certain houseplants which are useful in absorbing potentially harmful gases and cleaning the air inside homes.

Change or Clean Your Furnace or A/C Filters

At least once every 1-3 months depending on use.

Ventilate

Modern homes and businesses are created to be leakproof; meaning, toxins are sealed in and fresh air is sealed out! To ventilate indoor air in winter, open doors and windows on opposing sides of the room to facilitate airflow, and close them in 5 – 10 minutes. The furnishings, drywall and any stonework will retain residual heat and restore room temperatures quickly.

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