When shopping for furniture, you need to do more than pick out pieces that are attractive or comfortable. It’s important to also find out how the pieces are made and whether they will slowly emit toxins into your home.
For the times when you need something new, there are a few items you should definitely avoid. Pressed woods like particleboard, plywood, and medium density fiberboard (MDF) are known to contain urea-formaldehyde resin. Of the three wood materials, MDF releases the most formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas that can cause skin rashes, chronic headaches, and is also a suspected carcinogen.
Household paint is another item that can continue to emit dangerous gases into your home’s air, even after the fumes are gone. In fact, paints and finishes are the leading source of Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, in our homes. VOCs can cause all kinds of breathing problems and have been linked to rapidly increasing asthma rates in children. When you’re redecorating a room or re-finishing a piece of furniture, shop for low- or no-VOC products. Most paint companies have these options and they’re just as durable and cost effective. And buy only the amount of paint, thinner or finish that your project needs. When your project is complete, if you do have any products left over, remember, all of these items are considered household hazardous waste and need to be disposed of properly.
And don’t forget about all the cleaners you bring into your home every day. Household cleaners that are chemical based can pollute your home as the toxins evaporate into the air or are left behind on cleaned surfaces. As a rule of thumb, if the product has a warning or danger label, it’s likely not good for you or the environment. Choosing a plant-based or natural cleaner like vinegar or baking soda will also reduce the amount of pollution in your home.
Do your part and make your home a healthier place to unwind. It’s something we can all breathe easier about.
Call Billings Real Estate Professionals for all your real estate needs.
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