You may not realise it, but we could potentially introduce harmful substances when we furnish our homes.
From chemical-laced materials to items that easily trap dust, the choices we make affect our health and that of our loved ones.
Whether it's furniture or appliances, here's how to shop for your home with your health in mind:
- See more at: http://business.asiaone.com/property....kO3f5sKE.dpuf
1) Choose solid wood over particle board
Buy furniture made of solid wood, as veneers and particle (or chip) board often contain formaldehyde, benzene or xylene, which can cause respiratory problems when released into indoor air.
2) Consider glass
Opt for bookcases with glass enclosures or doors. These will confine book odours and also make the room easier to clean, since exposed clutter is very hard to keep free of dust.
3) Check for VOC emissions
Make sure you choose carpets, underlays and cushions that are made of fabrics with low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Test the fabric before buying it by placing a swatch in a clean, sealed jar and leaving it in the sun for a day. You wouldn’t want a strong smell when you open the jar. If laying a new carpet, also test the adhesives that will be used during the installation process.
4) Re-think self-cleaning appliances
Self-cleaning ovens can emit very fine particles during the cleaning cycle. Consider buying a conventional oven that can be cleaned with a solution of baking soda dissolved in water. Apply this mixture to the inside of your oven, wait 30 minutes and then wipe off with a damp cloth.
5) Think natural scents
Use an essential-oil diffuser with peppermint oil, or place cinnamon sticks in bowls. For a visual mood-enhancer, place jasmine and hyacinth flowers around the house to boost your mood!
And also be aware of:
6) Pesticides
When buying pesticides and other pest control products, be wary of their ingredients and how these can affect you. Pesticides are known to be carcinogenic and may cause increased risk of cancer as well as other health problems.
Avoid using chemical-based pesticides and opt for non-toxic natural pest control methods instead.
7) Air-conditioners
Air-conditioners can harm you if mould has formed and accumulated in the unit. Many people have had allergic reactions after being exposed to small amounts of mould at home. The effects can range from irritation to cancer. So make sure your air-conditioning filters are also kept clean and dry.
8) Plastic products
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is often used in plastics and are often linked to health risks, especially among children. Beware of the kind of plastic containers, toys and other products you have at home.
9) Polyester bedding and clothes
Some clothes and bedding materials are made with flame-retardants, which contain toxic chemicals called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Long-term exposure to the chemical can cause various impairments and is even linked to cancer and decreased sperm count. To avoid this, choose cotton or wool over polyester and foam products.
10) Paint
Low-VOC paints may be easy to find in this day and age, but this does not mean they are free from chemicals. Some paints can cause indoor air pollution that you are not aware of. Go for all natural and mineral paints to be safe.
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