Removing carpet from sublet

QUESTION:

Most houses around where I live have carpet. It is really hard to find houses that have hardwood floor. I am looking for a 4-month sublet, and was wondering if it is worth it to remove carpet for 4 months and then put it back. Can I do it all by myself? How much time does it take to pull out the carpet, and then put it back? If it is cement underneath, will it get very cold in the winter? I live in Michigan. Will the carpet be damaged while I do that? I want to preserve it so that I can install it back.

My current lease in a house that has carpet even in the bathroom and kitchen end in 2 months. Do you think it is worth it to put carpet seal just to use the carpet for 2 more months? It says on the website that I have to use carpet shampoo before using the carpet seal, and I thought that it is a lot of work, so I didn't buy the carpet seal. Also, there are lots of things on the floor in my room. I didn't want to move anything to put the carpet seal on. Or can I just put the seal on areas where I am not putting anything on?

If I move to a house that has hardwood floor, would it be safer to put a layer of natural linoleum on top to make sure that it is less toxic? If you recommend so, I will do that.

POSTED BY YH :: MICHIGAN USA :: 3:27 PM

Snapstone Tile

QUESTION:

Debra,

We are looking to put in porcelain tile in our dining room and kitchen. My husband is interested in a new product called Snapstone, which is porcelain tile attached to a grid of plastic and rubber underneath. The tiles snap together and you use a grout specifically made for this tile for flexibility. I am sure the grout probably has some chemicals. I have had MCS for many years, and therefore, I am extremely sensitive. In the past we have used tile with the cement board, old fashioned mortar and grout. Do you think that the plastic grid attached to the underside of the tile be a long term problem? I have tried to research this out, but have not been successful. Thank you for any help you can give me.

POSTED BY CATHY :: NORTH DAKOTA USA :: 8:38 AM

Tried and True Wood Finishes

QUESTION:

Hello Debra,

My husband and I bought the "Trued and True" varnish and danish oil to finish our hardwood floor, due to concerns over our baby's health while crawling. We hired a "professional" to do the work and unfortunately he did not follow the directions, and left it puddling on the floor for days! The floor has taken weeks to dry after wiping it clean.

Although it is now dry, there is a lingering odor that smells like the linseed oil. My question is, do you believe the smell/fumes to be harmful to little lungs even though it has been described as one of the least toxic floor finish by several sources? It is a no VOC product but the smell is so strong!

I should also mention that we are not moved into the house yet and we are turning the heat on 80 degrees at night with the windows closed and opening up the house during the day. I am afraid to turn the heat up too high for a bake out. Is this temperature OK?

Thanks very much for any help and advise you can give us!

--Jennifer

POSTED BY JENNIFER L. :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 12:04 PM

ikea birch closet

QUESTION:

Dear Debora,

We bought a new birch closet from Ikea 1 wk ago. I have windows open for a week but it still gives off a strong odor. The closet is in the nursery and I am concirned about the toxic effect of this odor. Also is there a way to eliminate the smell?

POSTED BY NATALIA :: NEW YORK USA :: 5:07 PM

carpet or bare fiberboard/plywood

QUESTION:

I have MCS, am allergic to carpet and dust (among other things), and my bedroom and sitting room have 25 yr old carpet in them. I can't really afford to replace them with hardwood, and am too tired to find and move to a greener home (catch-22 =). I\m considering just having the carpet removed and living with the bare wood underneath, but am concerned that that might not be any better, because of dust or toxins in the wood, chemicals disturbed during removal... any opinions as to which is worse: carpet or whatever is underneath (fiberboard of some kind I suspect)??

POSTED BY L.H. :: WASHINGTON CANADA :: 4:57 PM

Reducing Heat Loss Through Windows

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

We have floor to ceiling, single pane windows in our family room that cause us to lose so much heat in the winter. Do you know anything about honeycomb-cellular shades or is there any kind of film to keep the heat in that you would recommend? Thanks sv

POSTED BY SV :: WASHINGTON USA :: 9:23 AM

Built new house: problems with polyureseal bp

QUESTION:

I have MCS and just built a new house trying to follow guidelines for MCS building.

Have solid maple wood floors in whole house. Used AFM polyureseal BP for the finish. The wood floor guy has been doing wood floors for 30 years, and said it was the strongest smelling stuff he had ever used.

The last coat was put on July 9 (9 weeks ago). The first two weeks I couldn't even open the door and go inside the smell was so strong. Now 9 weeks later, we still have an odor from the polyureseal bp.

My wife and two children moved in five weeks ago. Now I have several, several, thousand dollars in a new house that I cannot live in, and I am forced to be seperated from my family.

Anyone else had any problems with AFM polyureseal bp?

Any advice on what can possibly be done?

Have aired out house several days, tried the bake out method, put cups of vinegar spaced througout house to absorb odor, still the odor is there (burns my eyes, causes tightness in chest, trouble breathing, etc..)

This is a terrible situation, I would advise everyone to test everything before you use it, do not rely on what a company tells you. I am running out of money, and short of having the floors sanded again and refinished with another finish, that would have to be tested first, (and I agree with what has been said before, that even though you may tolerate a small sample of something, once it covers 2200 sq ft of wood floors you may not)

I do not know what to do.

Thanks

POSTED BY CC :: TENNESSEE USA :: 1:43 PM
CATEGORY — INTERIOR DECORATING :: 9 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Mohawk's corn based carpets

QUESTION:

Anyone know if these carpets off-gas less or more healthily than petroleum based carpets?

POSTED BY GARY :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 1:40 PM

Tile Grout Dangerous?

QUESTION:

Hi Debra, I enjoy your blog so much! I am now having an anxiety attack because we tried to go green and do away with vinyl flooring on a very very low budget. So what i did was i went to the big box store and got the 68 cent a foot ceramic tile, and bought some grout, BUT on the grout is says Warning: contains silica sand, and .. crystalized silica causes cancer and silicosis. So now im terribly afraid, as my dad will be the one laying the tile. It is made by Laticrete, the grout and the thin set morter.

(What sparked me to look was, I looked at my paint from Olympic, which was suppose to be Zero VOC and i started getting dizzy, which prompted me to go look at the ingredients. It said on it, contains Cristoballite which is crystalized silica and has the warning like on Grout, causes lung cancer and silicosis warning.

Oh you laid tile in your house, does all grout contain crystalized silica, or silica sand?

i also contacted a tile expert (he is from a grout company) and here is his answer.

Subject: Tile Grout Question Hi there, I was wondering if you could tell me if tile grout and the thin set morter was dangerous.  I've just been reading up on silica, the reason i got on silica was I was painting and read on the label that is contains silica which can cause lung cancer and silicosis, so then i read the label on the laticrete  megabond and the ground, and it is primarily silica, silica sand and what not..

Answer Yes, these materials are dangerous to your health. Wear proper breathing apparatices, and work in well ventillated areas. And contact the manufacturer if you have further questions regarding health and safety issues about their product

QUESTION:

Ideally, I would not wear shoes in a house and damp mop the wood floors with water/vinegar every so often. In reality, I live in a house where people wear shoes, use a walker and regularly ( every few weeks) used the toxic floor treatments that make it hard for me to breathe.In the attached apartment, not always occupied, the smell lasts for many months. It hasn't been done in the house for months now, but my mother is insisting on it. Is there any product that might fill in the scratches without all the toxic ingredients? Thanks.

POSTED BY LAURA :: MAINE USA :: 3:53 PM

Safely repair scratched wood finish

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

We have a dark-stained wood crib (million dollar baby) that now has scratches. Our new baby will be here in June and we'd like to find a safe way to restain or touch up the scratches to help it look better. Are there any nontoxic options?

POSTED BY JENNIFER SHAW :: OKLAHOMA USA :: 6:18 AM

hand made furniture

QUESTION:

My husband & I are making a couch. He is constructing the wooden frame & I will be sewing the cushions. Does anyone have any suggestions for filler material? I've priced 100% cotton or 100% wool batting that I could build layer upon layer, but am wondering if there is any thick cushion material out there that is no full of poly..?

POSTED BY KRISTEN :: NEBRASKA USA :: 11:24 AM

cabinet refacing

QUESTION:

I want to reface my kitchen cabinet doors inexpensively and safely. A salesman said that using thermafoil vinyl is the way to go. Has anyone used that in their kitchen? Is it durable 10 years from now? Is it safe-emmisions, etc.?

thank you

POSTED BY NANCY ROSE :: MICHIGAN USA :: 10:56 AM

Armstrong Solarian Removal (contains asbestos)

QUESTION:

We are planning to remove Armstrong Solarian that was installed in 1980 in our kitchen and dining room. It has been tested and contains asbestos. We purchased it from a store that is no longer in business and supposedly in 1980 asbestos in linoleum was already banned but it was still sold to us.

Not only is the pattern and color "dated," we noticed in front of the sliding glass door that it was discolored, dark and rugs stuck to it. I didn't catch on at first but then wondered why the rest of the floor was smoothe and not discolored. I looked at it with a magnifying glass and found that it had been melted by the sun through the glass door only on one side. Then we noticed the dining table legs were stuck to the floor and when we moved them, the top layer of floor covering was removed.

We want to remove this flooring completedly and have researched and found out that we can remove it ourselves but cannot hire anyone to remove it unless they are certified asbestos removal experts. Has anyone had experience with removal of this type of flooring and what was your experience? I am concerned about air monitoring for particulate in the air. I've heard if the subfloor is removed with the linoleum (with a skill saw, using water to wet it and keep particulate down), that is the best way instead of pealing it up.

We don't want to encapsulate it because it will raise the floor level from one room to another and there may be a tripping/falling hazard. We are in our 60s and want to be safe. We are planning to replace the floor with hardwood.

Help! What was your experience and do you have any tips or advice before we start this process.

We were also told by a contractor friend that even though EPA seems to be strict about removal and disposal, he was told to drop it at the dump just like any other debris which was surprising.

We have read the brochure for home owners to remove their own asbestos but we are older and not capable or willing to tackle it ourselves. Has anyone had a good experience hiring certified asbestos removal contractors?

POSTED BY ANNE :: WA USA :: 7:25 AM
CATEGORY — INTERIOR DECORATING :: 4 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Potential hazards of using 150 year old oak reclaimed wood floor

QUESTION:

The interior design is specifying us to use reclaimed 150 year old french wood floors in our home.

Our concern is that one of the wood floor installation subcontractors informed us that the wood floor appears to have been chemically dipped in some kind of chemical/stain mixture to make it look weathered and grey.

The supplier states since it is reclaimed material and they did not put the finish on it, they are unable to inform us of the chemicals/stains used.

Unfortunately, we have already purchased the material and the supplier will not take it back. Our concern is it the wood floor is off gasing any hazardous chemicals, if the wood floor dipping process contained any hazardous chemicals, and what are any hazards if we need to sand down the wood floor in the future and what chemicals may now be airborne.

Do you know of any agencies that can/will test our wood floors for any hazardous chemicals?

Thanks.

POSTED BY TJW :: FLORIDA USA :: 7:02 AM

Stainsafe on Sofa

QUESTION:

Debra,

I purchased my couch five years ago and had Stainsafe applied in the store before delivery. Now I obviously realize that decision was wrong but I don't have the money for a new "organic" type of couch and all the companies want at least $1500 to reupholster my sofa and loveseat. Do you think after five years it's gone? Or do you feel it can still be toxic to my toddler? I have checked and at the very least there were no flame retardants used on the foam. I acknowledge there are still fumes from the foam and plywood inside, but I'm mostly focused on the exterior fabric right now. I'm thinking about buying a few sofa covers (washed multiple times to get out the chemicals) and using those to minimize exposure from the Stainsafe.

Thanks!

Elizabeth

POSTED BY ELIZABETH :: OHIO USA :: 6:54 AM

No VOC Paint

QUESTION:

That new Fresh Aire Paint~It still smells like paint???
I'm sick with pretty bad asthma-MD said"Severe", so I need a paint without any smell~
Pinned my hopes on this new paint@Home Depot,...
Anyone use it, & how do you like it, and, does it really smell?
TIA, xoxoxo, me ps: Co$t? Is it pricey $$$ in USD?

POSTED BY DT :: RHODE ISLAND USA :: 12:35 PM

Window blinds

QUESTION:

Debra,

Thank you for all the information you give us to help in making the right choices for our home environment. I have a question about PVC blinds. I am shopping for blinds for my home and wonder if aluminum is a better choice than faux wood blinds that are made from PVC or vinyl. The faux wood blinds look great but I wondered if they outgas especially if they are on a window that gets a lot of sun. My windows get a lot of the afternoon sun and wood blinds tend to warp in the heat. Do you or any readers have any suggestions.

Thanks,

Marie, Los Angeles

POSTED BY MARIE :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 12:42 PM

polyurethane - how long does it take to offgas?

QUESTION:

Housing is tight in SF. My partner and I found a house that is perfect in every way EXCEPT - the lovely hardwood floors were just polyurethaned. Is it reasonable to think 3 months might be enough? How long does it usually take?

Thanks

POSTED BY BETH :: IN TOUCH THERAPIES :: WWW.BETHBARON.COM :: CA USA :: 7:21 AM

Wooden floor refinishing

QUESTION:

A friend just moved into an apartment with a beautiful and newly-refinished wooden floor. Beautiful, but the smell was very noticeable when she first moved in. Her eyes became bloodshot and she began having other "allergy" symptoms -- headache, stuffy and runny nose, ect. soon thereafter. She suspects that the floor may be the problem. Short of moving apartments -- which she is considering -- is there a solution? What in the floor might be causing the problem, and how big of a problem? Will it go away? Thank you very much for the advice!

POSTED BY EAS :: NEW YORK USA :: 6:44 AM

QUESTION:

I am in the process of buying new furniture and am trying to buy the safest and least expensive options possible. I was looking for natural materials, such as metal and unfinished solid wood. Ikea has these items for great prices as many know.

However, I realized that Ikea's "solid" wood is really pieces of wood glued together. My first question was whether this is the normal practice of "solid" wood or if ikea can just market it this way and still be correct. And mostly...is the glue used to glue these pieces together toxic? Am I defeating the purpose of buying unfinished solid wood by buying items that are actually solid pieces of wood glued together?

Also, if I turn to the option of metal furniture...ikea identifies a metal frame as Frame/ Frame: Steel, Pigmented epoxy/polyester powder coating. Is the pigmented epoxy/polyester powder coating safe? Is it inert once it is on the metal, or does it still offgas? What about lacquered products? Does lacquer offgas during its full lifetime, or only while it is drying?

Also, I ended buying a bench from ikea that was "solid" wood and had been treated only with wood treatment oil, which i found out is linseed oil with an added metallic drying agent...don't know if this metallic drying agent is toxic either.

Perhaps I am being too picky here, but Debra's Home Safe Home only specifies to look for natural materials like solid wood or metal. Thanks for any comments/and or suggestions!

POSTED BY LOST IN MARYLAND :: MARYLAND USA :: 12:21 PM

Toxic Chair Frame From Foam?

QUESTION:

I hope you can help me. I bought a chair from Norwalk furniture for $1,200.00 2 years ago and it still smells. My plan is to reupholster it and use natural latex foam but once the toxic foam is removed do you think the wood frame will have obsorbed some of the toxic chemicals from the foam, fire retardent etc..the latex foam should cost about $200, hemp fabric $150 labor $300.??.I just don't know if it's even worth the trouble...

POSTED BY GINA :: OREGON USA :: 11:25 AM

removing wallpaper

QUESTION:

Anyone have any green ideas for removing wallpaper?

Thanks,
Donna

POSTED BY DONNA :: CA USA :: 11:23 AM

Tub surround

QUESTION:

Debra, my husband wants to remove the ceramic tiles that are falling apart around bathtub,the soap bar came loose, tiles have been there since seventies.I prefer to have a tub surround but most are plastic.I do not want more tiles inside around the bath tub,expensive too. Do you know of any thats not plastic? Thanks Deborah Tenn.ps. tub surround im looking for.

POSTED BY DEBORAH BARNETT :: TENNESSEE USA :: 6:22 AM

PVC shower lining membrane

QUESTION:

AAAAH! I need help! I am renovating my 30 yr. old bathroom and replacing the tub with a stand up shower. The contractor coordinator explained the process step by step, and said they'd be using a thick rubber liner befor mudding the shower floor. The rubber is now in, and it stinks in here. I went in to investigate and discovered it's PVC! I phoned the coordinator and she explained that there are only two code approved options (I'm unsure if it's county, state or national codes)and those options are PVC membranes and fiberglass, which I heard is even worse. My local green building supply guy said he knows of no other membrane alternatives, but there is a coating to prevent offgassing, but it needs 24 hours to dry, and the mudding guy is coming first thing in the A.M.. He mentioned that the mudding and tiles should suppress the offgassing, but I'm still worried about the environmental impact and future tumors! Is there anything I can do in the next 15 hours?

Thank you in advance for any help... It's really smelly in here, I have a headache, and my lips are tingling!

Amanda in the Tampa Bay area

P.S. Why the heck is PVC still legal?!?

POSTED BY AMANDA :: FLORIDA USA :: 6:20 AM

Are most curtains treated with formaldehyde?

QUESTION:

Hi,
I am looking for non-toxic curtain without formaldehyde.
Should I assume most curtains are treated with formaldehyde?
Most of them are polyester and cotton blend.
I recently bought a 100% cotton sheets set which didn't say "Easy care" or "perm press" but was treated with formaldehyde.

Hemp curtains would be nice but the price is just over my budget.
Also don't come in a variety of styles.
Do you have any suggestion on non toxic curtain option? Thanks so much.

POSTED BY DIANNE :: BC CANADA :: 6:13 AM

Paint outgassing

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I'm looking at moving, and most rentals have been newly painted. I'm very sensitive to the fumes, and I've heard that it's possible to turn the heat up in the house for several days and then air it out. Does that work well? I'd hate to move in and then have to move out!

Thanks,

D.

POSTED BY ANDREA WHITMORE :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 10:34 PM

brass door knobs

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

I was recently reading to avoid brass fixtures in water hoses due to lead leaching from them. The advice said to instead look for nickel plated hardware.

This got me thinking about how most of the door knobs in my home are brass...would there be any concern for trace amounts of lead getting on your hands from using brass door knobs?

Thanks so much.

POSTED BY LISA :: AZ USA :: 11:40 PM

floor adhesives

QUESTION:

Do you have any experience with or knowledge about adhesives for wood flooring? I have had 3 products recommended that are suppose to be environmentlally friendly, but am not convinced they are right for chemical sensitivites. The 3 products are: Bostic Best, Mapei, and TitebondIII.

POSTED BY RAB :: TENNESSEE USA :: 10:24 AM

Engineered Flooring

QUESTION:

Hi Debra -

I've tried my best to be able to put hardwood floor in our "new" house and unfortunately it isn't going to be feasible.

I will not put laminate in, so the only choice for wood seems to be engineered.

I'm going to be very careful to make sure that I don't use an engineered floor that contains formaldehyde.

Eco Timber engineered flooring seems to be a good product.

Do you have any experience with Eco Timber engineered products?

They even have a low VOC adhesive. Do you think that would be safe to use? I know you mention plain wood glue for a safe adhesive.

If I have to buy engineered wood, which I know isn't the best choice, what should I be looking for to make sure it is as safe as possible?

Thanks for everything!!

POSTED BY RONDA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 11:54 AM

Stained Glass Lamps

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

Do you know if a stained glass lamp would be harmful in regards to it's lead content? I have had to throw out some store bought lampshades because of the toxic smell they gave off when the lamp was on. So, I am now looking for something with a glass shade.

Thanks

POSTED BY CH :: CA USA :: 11:43 AM

low voc carpets?

QUESTION:

Do you or any of your readers have any experience with the low voc carpets? This is for someone who is somewhat chemically sensitive. Any help appreciated!

POSTED BY ALEX :: SOUTH CAROLINA USA :: 11:13 AM

sealing in vinyl flooring

QUESTION:

Will putting ceramic tile or another non-toxic floor over vinyl flloring seal in any fumes from the vinyl underneath?

POSTED BY CHARISE :: OHIO USA :: 10:42 AM

Freshaire paint

QUESTION:

I was at Home Depot today and saw an ad for Freshaire Choice paint. It says it does not have any VOCs in the paint or the colorant. I went to the web site, thefreshairechoice.com, and they had a phone number to call so you can have them send you 3 samples of any of their colors free...no shipping costs, either.

So I did. They said it would take 4 or 5 days. The only down side would be that there are only 66 colors to choose from. I'll report back when I have tried the samples.

Has anyone else used this paint?

POSTED BY KAREN :: AZ USA :: 12:01 AM
CATEGORY — INTERIOR DECORATING :: 10 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

will slipcovered sofa be safer?

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,
I recently received a used sofa from a family member. The sofa is about five years old. I am wondering how safe this sofa is and should I keep it. The tag reads:

Body
Urethane foam %55
Blended Fiber Batting %30
Polyester fiber padding %10
Resin-Treated Polyester Fiber %5

Seat cushions
Urethane foam %90
Polyester Fibers %10

Those materials do not sound very healthy to me! Would it make a differance if I put a slipcover made out of organic material on it?
I have young children so I want to make sure that that they are safe.
Thanks for your help and all of the wonderful inforamtion you share !
KSM

POSTED BY KSM :: MICHIGAN USA :: 11:47 PM

Safe Interior Doors

QUESTION:

Hi Debra -

What should I look for when purchasing interior doors? One door for the garage will be solid, but the other interior doors all will be hollow. I'm nervous that I might get some MDF type door.

Thanks for all of your help!

POSTED BY RONDA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 11:21 PM

Wallpaper Woes

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

My husband and I are in the process of renovating our bedroom. I really wanted a feature wall to "feature" a damask-style wallpaper. I was distressed to discover that the wallpaper I fell in love with, and based the whole room around, was solid vinyl. Further searching revealed nothing but vinyl or vinyl-coated paper. I am pregnant, plan to breastfeed and co-sleep in this room so I am obviously concerned about the off-gassing from vinyl. Am I right to be concerned? Is the off-gassing a long-term problem?

A web search of non-vinyl wallpapers revealed only one company -Mod Green Pod. Their designs are not to my taste, so is that it? Do you know of any other companies that sell wallpapers that are not toxic?

I have also considered covering the wallpaper with an AFM safecoat product but I'm unsure of the result since their finish appears to be glossy. I am not in a position to buy the vinyl wallpaper just to test the results with the AFM product. Do you or any of your readers have any suggestions?

Thank you in advance,
Samantha in Toronto, Canada

POSTED BY SAMANTHA :: ONTARIO CANADA :: 12:39 PM

Low or No VOC carpet

QUESTION:

Debra,

We are moving into a new home and need to replace all the carpet and padding in the upstairs portion of the house.

What are the low or no VOC alternatives?
Where do we find them?
Are they more expensive than standard carpeting?

Thank you.

Victoria

POSTED BY VRL :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 1:22 PM

kitchen cabinets

QUESTION:

hi, I have been trying to have my cabinets made of al wood but am finding it too expensive - there are some boards that say they are very low in formaldehyde emmissions level EO substrate (if you know what that means) that it is tested to US EPA's ETV test method for measuring emissions of VOCs and aldehydes and complies to the total VOC limit specified by Green star of <0.5 mg/m3 within 7 days of unpacking. What do you think or can you suggest a board to use for the insides of the kitchen cabinets.
thanks
Jacinta

POSTED BY JACINTA :: NSW AUSTRALIA :: 11:27 AM

Marmoleum Click flooring - toxicity?

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

I'm considering Marmoleum Click flooring for my kitchen and am researching its toxicity. I first saw it at a green building supply who said it was nontoxie. Then I found the ingredients listed on the manufacturer's MSDS:

"Composition/Information on ingredients

Composition: Linoleum floor covering laminated to HDF board on a backing of granulated cork sheet

Ingredients:
Linoleum: Linoleum based on a binder composed of linseed oil and (natural) rosin, mixed with woodflour and limestones pressed on a jute backing.

HDF: Mixed softwood 80-85%
Remainder comprises: polymerised resin, paraffin wax, moisture, free formaldehyde (EN 14041-Class E1)

Cork sheet backing Granulated cork with polymerised resin"

My concerns are:
1. HDF (high density fiberboard) and its contents of polymerised resin, paraffin wax and free formaldehyde - how toxic are these?
2. Cork sheet backing with polymerised resin
3. On website it says "Marmoleum is provided with a Top Shield Finish." I'm not sure what Top Shield Finish is, do you know?

I have been trying to contact the company for 2 days with no reply to email or phone.

What do you think of this product based on the above information? We need as nontoxic a product as possible due to health issues. Marmoleum comes in other forms (sheets, tiles) so we may have some other options, but like the Click colors and styles.

Thanks for your help and great website.

POSTED BY MARY :: MARYLAND USA :: 11:35 AM

FLOR flooring products - vinyl backing safe?

QUESTION:

I'm considering purchasing FLOR modular carpeting for my son's play area. I've been very impressed with the company's commitment to environmental responsibility, but I just realized that the carpet tiles' backing is made out of a composite vinyl called Glas-Bac. It's nice that the backing uses recycled materials, but I've been concerned about purchasing vinyl products for my home for health reasons. Does anyone have any experience with FLOR? Any sensitivities? Any information about how much this product might off-gas? I have some samples of the tiles, and they seem to have very little odor (unlike normal carpeting), but I know a larger area of this floor covering might be a different story.

POSTED BY KMA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 10:57 AM

Quietwalk Underlayment

QUESTION:

I was wondering if you have any experience or know if "Quietwalk" underlayment is okay to use? It is considered a green product. We are new to using chemical free products, LOVE your site! We haven't been diagnosed with MCS but realize eliminating chemicals is the way to go. Any info would be so helpful.

POSTED BY MARYLOU EVANS :: UT USA :: 2:30 PM

Ecofinishes Hardwood Flooring

QUESTION:

Has anyone had experience with Ecofinishes Air 1 collection of hardwood flooring? It looks as though the flooring has a UV acrylic finish. My kitchen has hardwood with a ceramic finish which was great -- no chemical issues at all. However, the company is no longer in business. I have done a great deal of research and haven't yet found another company that has the ceramic finish. I'm planning to replace the bedroom floor and want to be very careful.

POSTED BY ELAINE :: :: WWW.FREEDOM2ACHIEVE.NET :: MARYLAND USA :: 6:14 PM

Sectional sofa

QUESTION:

Hi Debra, I'm thrilled to just discover your website. Thank you for doing this. I have been looking and looking for a sectional with latex cushions b/c of the flame retardent issue. Any suggestions? (Would prefer not to go custom). I was diagnosed with having formaldehyde toxicity and did not realize my sheets could be a problem (I have a latex mattress)till I just read this blog. Can you suggest any brands that are safe? Thanks.

POSTED BY ANNE C. :: GEORGIA USA :: 5:08 PM

Smelly Blackout Blinds

QUESTION:

Hi Debra -

We have blackout blinds in our room. Our room faces southeast and gets blasted by the rising sun. Every morning when the sun is out and not when it's overcast, a horrible chemical-esque smell fills the bedroom. After having the crawlspace, attic, and HVAC system inspected we realized it was coming from the blinds. Something on the blinds seems to be reactive once exposed to sunlight for a short period of time. We are going to have them replaced but have you ever heard of such a problem?

POSTED BY M.E.B :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 3:01 PM

Used Sofa

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I need a new sofa. I have a 4 yr old child with severe allergies and autism. I am looking at a used sofa (4 years old) That comes from a non smoking, pet free home.

The fabric they tell me is: felted blended fibers(polyester and resin treated colored)the cushions are gray goose feathers/urethane foam/and polyester fiber.

Even though this sounds very synthetic, is it possible that after 4 years it is safe to bring in my home or at least mostly offgassed? I am having a hard time finding something. The organic sofas are so expensive and we spend a lot on our child's condition. Thank you so much!

POSTED BY TAMMY :: AL USA :: 2:07 PM

Wood Finish for Table

QUESTION:

My husband and I are making a harvest plank table for our kitchen from pine planks. I really want a rustic, hand scrubbed look, but I also need to darken or stain the wood, ideally to match our kitchen cabinets. I've been reading a lot about a product called "DuraStain" for the actual staining, then perhaps using a "Salad Bowl Finish" product to seal the wood. However, many of these products claim to be non-toxic once cured and food safe, however, they cannot be sold in California. Please keep in mind that I have a 2 1/2 year old son, which is why I'm looking for a "safe" product and in turn the reason I'd like to protect our table from spills, and accompanying mischief. Any help would be appreciated in navigating my way through these products. Thanks.

POSTED BY DARFALFA :: NORTH CAROLINA USA :: 11:52 AM

Marmoleum Flooring

QUESTION:

Hello, I work in a medical office and they have to redo the flooring. Fortunately i am away for 2 weeks while this is being done. I did a little research and found that Marmoleum a type of linoleum is non-toxic. I am a little scared that even after 2 weeks the rooms will still smell like linseed oil and that I will react to it. Does anyone have any experience with marmoleum or have another safer suggestion for a medical office. I am told that wood flooring would not be an option as floors are often washed. thank you, Jan

POSTED BY JAN :: NY USA :: 11:10 AM

Prefinished wood floor installation

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

You've written a number of times that you have installed prefinished wood floors without any problems. I'm about to have a prefinished wood floor installed over an existing wood sub-floor. The contractor told me a layer of paper is placed between the two, and gave me different options, such as, builder's paper, rosin paper, construction paper, and black felt. For the chemically sensitive person, is there a preference? What did you use for your floors?

Thank you for your help.

POSTED BY J. S. :: NEW YORK USA :: 3:46 PM

Granite Countertops & Radon Gas

QUESTION:

I was all set to install uba tub granite in two weeks when I stumbled across the controversial new studies saying that granite countertops emit radon gas. Of course, every stone retailer selling granite says no. What is your opinion on this matter? What would be some reasonable alternatives to granite. Green countertop options such as recycled glass are not readily available in my area. Would a solid surface countertop be a better choice even though it is plastic. Thanks so much.

POSTED BY LES :: NORTH CAROLINA USA :: 1:44 PM

aluminum oxide finish on mullican hickory enigneered flooring

QUESTION:

Debra, I had Mullican Sundance Hickory engineered hardwood floors installed in June 07. I noticed the box the flooring came in stated that the wood contained an aluminum oxide finish.

I have noticed an odor in the morning when I go downstairs. Is this because of the floor adhesive (Bostik) "gassing off" or something i.e. aluminum oxide in the floor finish "gassing off"? If so, do I have a toxic situation or is there some kind of remedy?

What do you recommend I do? Please help!

R/Jim

POSTED BY JIM BLAIR :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 1:42 PM

QUESTION:

Good Morning,

We are having prefinished hardwood floating floor installed.

The representative suggested they put a 'muffler' layer of padding under the flooring to muffle the sound & give a slight cushion.

We have just had to remove all carpet due to a mold problem so I am hesitant to put any fabric in/on the floor. ( we live in Ga. so humidity is high here.)

Do you have an opinion on this ?

thanks!

POSTED BY MARY :: HEARTVIEW CREATES :: HEARTVIEWCREATES.COM :: GEORGIA USA :: 6:29 AM

Building

QUESTION:

Hello, we are in the middle of a complete kitchen remodel and we are having our cabinets built for us. On your blogs I have read about the Particleboard, wood, etc. but what I want to know is, in having my cabinets built what ELSE can I do to have them be healthier? Is there a specific glue that I should have them use? We will be having them painted white, is there a specific type of paint that we should use?

Thanks so much Debra for all that you do. I just bought your revised book and I'm going to buy one for everybody I know for Christmas!!!

Thanks

POSTED BY MARILEE :: OREGON USA :: 6:15 AM

PCBE: how old do I have to go?

QUESTION:

I want to buy a couch/sofa for my living room. I want used but need to know how old do I have to go before I am pre-PCBE use? I imagine they starting being used mid-century. Are there any other toxins/materials I should be concerned about and can avoid by going back to a certain time.

POSTED BY AS :: ONTARIO CANADA :: 6:13 AM

Flame retardants

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,
Thank you very much for all the information you provide on your website. I have a question: I just bought a sleep sofa from Jennifer Convertibles. I have recently read alot about flame retardants and their effect on health. Is there any way to tell if something, e.g. a couch, has been treated with flame retardants? Thank you very much!

POSTED BY CATHY :: NEW YORK USA :: 9:23 AM

Unsafe solid-wood furniture

QUESTION:

I have MCS and know that when I purchase furniture it cannot contain MDF wood or plywoods because of the off-gassing of the glues.

What I didn't know was that when I ordered a custom-made solid wood bedframe and work desk that they would be sitting in my garage because they burned my throat turning it bright red and sore, made my eyes burn, plugged-up my nose and made me cough when I got near them.

The off-gassing is coming from the finish they used on them. The oil-based stain is the worst offender by far, but the clear top-coat is very strong also. I ordered them from a company that gets them from the Amish Community and I was so sure because of their beliefs that they wouldn't use anything toxic, that I didn't even second guess it.

I was told that it was a non-toxic finish because they use it on their table-tops. I guess they can say this because as long as you don't scrape some off with a knife and eat it, that statement applies. I spent a lot of money because I only wanted non-toxic things in my home and now I am so upset it keeps me awake some nights.

I have another piece of furniture that I have had for a few months that was in the same store as display so most of the off-gassing must have happened before I purchased it. It is also completely clear-coated whereas some of the desk and bed have surfaces that are only stained which is where most of the toxic off-gassing is coming from. Even though the finish on it does not effect me the way the custom-mades do, it is a small piece and not something I work at or sleep next to like the desk and bed. If I sit next to the older piece, I faintly smell it which leads me to believe it is still off-gassing. I live where there are long winters and no open windows and don't want them in my house at all. I have researched the internet for hours with no luck on these 2 questions:
Do oil-based stains and clear coats ever quit off-gassing completely? and,
If you can smell it even faintly, would it be considered as off-gassing toxic fumes?
I just want to warn any MCS sufferers out ther and any comments would be greatly appreciated.

POSTED BY JENINMI :: MICHIGAN USA :: 1:05 AM

off gassing help for new leather sofa

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

I enjoy reading your website and blog. I am writing regarding outgassing help for new leather sofa which was purchased by a family member without letting me know about it.

It is Italian Leather and smells very strong and toxic!

I'ld greatly appreciate any thoughts on products that might help it out gass without hurting the leather!

Thanks very much.

sincerely,
Sophia
New Jersey

POSTED BY SOPHIA :: NEW JERSEY USA :: 7:40 AM

Area rugs

QUESTION:

I have purchased 2 very nice area rugs and I thought buying them with rubber backing was good because I have hardwood floors, however, the smell of the rubbing backing is so strong to me. I wondered what kind of area rugs to buy that will not slip on hardwood if I can't use the rubber backed ones? Is it the same with all rubber backed area rugs?
Karen

POSTED BY KARENRB53 :: ONTARIO CANADA :: 9:54 AM

Porcelain flooring

QUESTION:

Hello Debra,

Is porcelain flooring a safe eco-friendly floor?

POSTED BY ID :: MICHIGAN USA :: 11:05 AM

Low VOC paint with Teflon

QUESTION:

Hello,
Where I live, it's not easy to find many environmentally friendly products, so I was excited to find a low VOC paint by CIL being sold in a local hardware store...until I saw that it contained Teflon! I wouldn't really be worried about it, as we won't be ingesting the paint - except that we have a pet bird, and I'm wondering if Teflon in paint would have the same lethal effect on birds that Teflon on cookware does? Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
Sincerely,
Samantha.

POSTED BY SAMANTHA :: ONTARIO CANADA :: 10:10 AM

non- toxic adhesive removal

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,
What do you recommend for non-toxic removal of the old vinyl flooring?
Also, what is non-toxic for installing the natural, sheet , linolium?
thanks !!
Mary

POSTED BY MARY :: HEARTVIEW CREATES :: HEARTVIEWCREATES.COM :: GEORGIA USA :: 5:55 AM

Use of a vapor barrier on installing a new floor

QUESTION:

I have MCS and I'm putting in 2 new pre-finished wood floors in my home.

I was told by a green building service to have the contractor use a polyethelene vapor barrier instead of an asphalt/felt/paper vapor barrier for less off-gassing. Now it seems you can't nail the floor through a vapor barrier (it would defeat the purpose) so they are recommending floating the floor, which means glue-ing the wood together instead of nailing it down. So, now I'm worried about the glue being an issue for me.

Any thoughts or advice?

POSTED BY LLYANA :: CA USA :: 5:05 AM

Prefinished Hardwood

QUESTION:

Seeking more information on prefinished hardwoods for 'new' house. Did put some in last year when moved in house temporarily. Wonder which finish is ideal. Or guidelines... Ours planks aluminum something..in hindsight there must be something better. I was loopy and sick. I searched back blog issues and did learn that we can purchase at store and let it outgass for a while. That is great to know.

So much of this illness is hindsight. Thanks for Debra's book, care, and website.

POSTED BY MTV :: VIRGINIA USA :: 6:00 AM

Non-Toxic Furniture Experiences

QUESTION:

I would like some comments from those that have purchased new, non-toxic furniture from various sources such as Furnature. Have your experiences been good? Is it best to stick with used, out-gassed furniture? Some concerns I have are with the strong smell of organic cotton- does all furniture made with it have a strong smell? Non-toxic furniture is a big investment and only worth it if is truly satisfactory.

POSTED BY GREYSON :: TEXAS USA :: 9:18 AM

safe wood stain with color

QUESTION:

Hi, my daughter has mcs and I wanted to stain her unpainted wood bedroom furniture. I have been able to find clear hemp-based stain (www.hempola.com) but I'm really looking for a color. Any suggestions?

Thanks

POSTED BY DAVID GRIFFITH :: ONTARIO CANADA :: 4:41 PM

Reaction to natural carpet

QUESTION:

Dear Debra

I am a chemically sensitive person ( I'd say moderately) and I recently pulled up an old, worn out rubber backed carpet and replaced it with an "Earthweave brand" carpet that is made of all natural wool,hemp/cotton back & natural rubber adhesive. They also installed an all natural wool pad. The ad said it was good for chemically sensitive people.

After it was installed, I found, much to my chagrin, that it affected my eyes and respiratory tract. I could not stay in that room! For me, it also had an odor like "rubber". My husband who is not chemically sensitive smelled nothing.

We kept airing out the room for 5 weeks and my reaction did not become less so we pulled it up. I wonder if any other chemically sensitive people have had a similar experience with similar carpets?

We are now faced with the dilemma of what to do next. There is old linoleum tile on that floor now that needs to be covered up with something. After reading one of your respondent's letters, cork probably would not be a good choice. We sure could use some guidance as this sure was an expensive mistake!!!

POSTED BY PAT HABECK :: MONTANA USA :: 2:16 PM

New Couch with smell

QUESTION:

I bought a new microfiber covered couch. It is emitting a horrible odor mostly at night. It seems to come in waves sometimes during the day as well. It has foam cushions which I think are causing the smell. Do you think this will go away? What do I do? I live in my apartment with a 3 year old son and a dog. The couch is very comfortable and looks good. I am afraid the smell might not stop. Thanks.

POSTED BY GEM :: NEW YORK USA :: 2:12 PM

Safe Stairs

QUESTION:

Hello Debra,

I would like your input.....we are removing carpet & putting in hardwood flooring . The challenge for me is the stairs. I feel somewhat unsteady when I think of hardwood , not carpet on the stairs...a little too 'slippery'.

A frind suggested we put a runner on the stairs....but I am not sure how this would be any safer ( as in not slipping).

My husband says, 'just put new carpet', however, we have not researched the non-toxic avaiablitly of carpet.

any suggestions for a healthy AND safe treatment for our stairs ?
thanks...as always!

POSTED BY MARY :: GEORGIA USA :: 1:12 PM

Kitchen Cabinets

QUESTION:

We want to buy kitchen cabinets and are confuuuuused. We saw Kraftmaid cabinets.

The cheaper one we liked the most actually was Praline color but we were told it was not solid wood but plywood.

The more expensive is Solid Wood. I actually prefered the cheaper plywood.

Then one can get Lacquered solid wood cabinets.

Which type would you recommend?

Is it true that it is easier to maintain the lacquered wood than the solid wood?

Kitchen cabinets are very expensive and I don't want to make a booboo. I feel like a baby.

POSTED BY SAMI :: NY USA :: 5:13 AM

Is Formica Toxic?

QUESTION:

Hello,

We were thinking of using formica as backing for a built in cabinet to cover drywall. We wanted to check if this material was considered toxic, and if you might recommend a non-toxic construction adhesive.

Thank you kindly.

POSTED BY WT :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 10:53 AM

Concrete Flooring

QUESTION:

We are re-doing our downstairs office space. We are removing all carpet. The floor underneath is concrete. I have read that concrete flooring is a healthy choice....just paint it or seal it with a non-toxic product. It would certainly help the budget to do this ( we can then use that money toward our new UPSTAIRs flooring ..hardwood :)

Would you share your thoughts on this?

thanks!

POSTED BY MARY :: HEARTVIEW CREATES :: HEARTVIEWCREATES.COM :: GEORGIA USA :: 3:16 PM

sound proofing

QUESTION:

what do you put down on a concrete floor to sound proof it before you cement down tiles?

POSTED BY ROSIEM :: NEW YORK USA :: 3:33 AM

Bamboo flooring in semi-arid climate

QUESTION:

Has any one installed bamboo flooring in a semi-arid climate? If so, did you have any problems with contraction or cupping? FYI: We have a swamp cooler but will not be maintaining a constant humidity level.

POSTED BY JENNIFER :: COLORADO USA :: 12:47 AM

Making Safe Organic Candles at Home

QUESTION:

Hi, I love your website and use your Shopping List almost daily!

I decided to start making my own candles so I can have fun trying different scents. Also, I want to know for sure that my candles are safe for my home.

Do you or any readers know where I can find 100% organic soy wax and organic cotton wicks? I have searched online with no luck. Thanks!

POSTED BY PERRI :: MISSISSIPPI USA :: 2:24 PM

Ideas sought to minimize the filth from removing old carpet

QUESTION:

I'm living in an apartment that is about 40 years old. The original flooring was traditional linoleum. Most people have had it covered with various types of carpet, though some have put down wood floors of various sorts.

I can't afford to buy new flooring but felt that getting rid of the carpeting (that itself is quite old)would surely make for a healthier environment. I had the carpet and its underpadding (looks like corrugated cardboard) removed in the living room.

It took my paying someone who's very efficient and careful at least three four-hour sessions to get the floor clean (i.e., the original linoleum). The filth was unbelievable. Fortunately it was summer and I was able to keep the windows open and ran an exhaust fan constantly. The man who removed the carpet was supposed to do the same in the bedroom and just never showed up. So it's still there.

I am much sicker now (many years later). I of course would love to remove the carpet in the bedroom but I don't see how I could manage that since I so often must be in the bedroom. And also the amount of work it involved for me (the living room) is far more than I'm up to now.

However, were I to come up with a way to have the carpet and underpadding cut out in a way that I could reduce (dramatically) the filth it would be so good for me to live in a bedroom with no carpet at all. (I was thinking of affixing a drop cloth or two to the carpet; cuting it in sections; rolling it encased in the drop cloth but I will have to see what the person doing it thinks). Any ideas? They'd be much, much appreciated.

POSTED BY JUDITH WISDOM :: PENNSYLVANIA USA :: 2:11 PM

Natural Lee Furniture

QUESTION:

Has anyone had experience with furniture by Natural Lee ? They have a line of furniture using organic fabrics & soy foam, which I've never heard of before. I understand from a friend that they're vague about whether their furniture is treated with flame retardants, an important consideration for sensitive people. As many of us are, we're looking for affordable, comfy, healthy furniture. Thanks for any feedback on this. Dorothy, MA

POSTED BY DB :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 2:15 PM

Installing Wood Floor

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

I am very chemically sensitive, and your work has been a great help to me over the years.

We are looking into replacing the ancient carpet in our living room with a hardwood floor, but money is limited. In a smaller room we nailed down unfinished maple from Lumber Liquidators, and sealed it with linseed oil. It took about two weeks to dry completely, so this is not an option for the living room as we cannot go live somewhere else while it dries.

After reading your site, we're considering prefinished wood, also from Lumber Liquidators, especially if we can outgas it for a while before installation. Our question is labor-related. Can we glue ash planks down to a particle board subfloor with wood glue, or does that only work with the click-together floors? (The particle board is very old, so no more outgassing from that.) Nailing it all down may be more than we can handle, but it seems all the click-together types of flooring are some type of laminate, which I think would be far too toxic for me.

In an earlier post you recommended parquet tiles from Lowes. They are far more affordable, but aren't those made with toxic materials like other laminate floors?

My ideal would be to find a click-together hardwood, pre-finished with a natural sealant, but I haven't been able to find any. Does it exist?

Thanks!

-Kathryn

POSTED BY KATHRYN :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 1:24 PM

Organic Beds that can withstand humidity

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

We live on the ocean and are trying to buy a bed that is organic but that can also handle humidity. Rubber and wool seem to need a very dry environment. Any ideas?

POSTED BY JULIE :: NC USA :: 12:07 PM

How about DuPont Real Touch Elite laminate?

QUESTION:

hello Debra,

You recommend Wilsonart laminate, which is GREENGUARD certified.

DuPont Real Touch Elite laminate flooring products are GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified as well.
www.flooring.dupont.com/en/gg.shtml

What is your view on DuPont Real Touch Elite laminate?

Thanks.
Wenwei

POSTED BY WENWEI WENG :: CA USA :: 4:41 PM

Chinese Lacquer Furniture Off Gassing

QUESTION:

Hello,
I've found a few pieces of furinture imported from China that I'm interested in purchasing. They both have a lacquer finish, even inside the drawers. Recently, when I went in to look at them, a friend mentioned that you have to be careful of this kind of finish off-gassing. When we smelled inside the drawers, there is a smell there (some of the other furniture with a different finish inside the drawers had no smell). Is this off-gassing? Is there anything I can do to seal it? Will it always be there? Any advice you can give me will help.
Thanks,
Anne

POSTED BY ANNE :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 4:38 PM

Clay Plaster walls

QUESTION:

I have checked with the companies that sell clay plaster and they tell me kaolin clay is one of the ingredients. Since kaolin clay is somewhat radioactive, wouldn't covering the walls of my home with it be ill advised? Or is it such a tiny amount that it is negligible? I have asked them this question and they won't answer it (probably for liability reasons). I would love to know since clay plaster is beautiful and (apart from the radioactivity) nontoxic.

POSTED BY MARGARET :: :: WWW.MARGARETFORREST.COM :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 7:59 AM

Making The Local Choice

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

A year and a half ago I wrote to you asking about installing a hardwood floor on a low budget. We had a source for some local burr oak or ash wood that had been thoughtfully harvested, milled and dried locally that we would have had to sand and finish it and put up with some off-gasing even if we went with a low VOC, (would that also mean slow drying) finish.

The other alternative was to go with a mass produced, commercial prefinished, and well protected (they said up to 8-9 layers) hardwood with little off-gasing--but who knows were it came from and the harvesting conditions. The latter choice would have been less expensive, have less off gasing and because we are presently living in the house we wouldn't have to put up with a drying time.

I asked your opinion and you replied:

My first choice would be to go with the local wood even though it would take more effort. It would be best for the "big picture" and soul-satisfying as well.

I've been known to choose the "easy way" myself for a variety of reasons.

To me the "right" choice results in the greatest good for all factors involved--including oneself. And that is an evaluation only you can make.

Medium Density Fiberboard/MDF

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

Hope you're doing well.

I recently found a table that I'd like to buy. The table legs and apron are solid beech and solid ash. But the table top is ash veneer over medium density fiberboard/MDF. The veneer is stained and finished with a "layer of translucent lacquer". The table is made by "Italian artisans".

I'm concerned about formaldehyde outgassing from the MDF:

1) Is there any way to know if this particular MDF was made with urea-formaldehyde? (The retailer tried to find out, but was unable to get any info; and I was unable to locate the manufacturer..the item has been discontinued.)
2) If urea-formaldehyde was used, how long will it take to outgas?
3) If phenol-formaldehyde was used, how long will it take for that to outgas?
4) Will the ash veneer and/or the lacquer finish lock in the formaldehyde.
5 ) If the table was indeed made in Italy, does that say anything about the type of resin used in the MDF?

Any input you have would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Jeff

POSTED BY J.K. :: FLORIDA USA :: 5:54 AM

Reducing Offgassing From New Carpet

QUESTION:

hi! We recently moved to a rented apartment with brand new regular carpeting. I am concerned about the offgassing from the carpeting and the fire retardant in it....i have a 4 year old daughter and she is coughing in the night ever since we moved. What is it that i can do to reduce the offgassing especially in my daughter's bedroom.....can using a natural area rug over the carpetting be of any help? Please.any advise will be of great help. thanking u

POSTED BY PALLAVI :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 5:41 PM

Formaldehyde in wood paneling

QUESTION:

We recently put up paneling in our living room that has formaldehyde in it. What kind of health hazard could that be for us?

POSTED BY D. P. :: TEXAS USA :: 4:54 PM

Need flooring advice

QUESTION:

Debra, I thank you for your site!

I need help. I live in a very old house and the floors need to be replaced, there is old ratty carpet and lineoloum tiles that have holes and the kitchen is very old hardwood which I dont know if there is a product I could put on it to save it, as I am very chemically sensitive. It was coated with poloyurathine years ago and was beautiful (when I first moved in). I later had a severe chemical exposure, which Iam doing all to recover from. I dont know how to purchase a floor and to be sure of getting the best--that wont outgass.

I want hardwood flooring for the rest of the house. my husband want to go to Lowes and purchase tile (Lineloum) for the living room since it is the worst.he said perhaps if we let it outgass in the garge or attice a few months it would be ok as we did do that with the bathroom years ago. I have put this off till it is no longer a option to just leave it..Please anyone help. I have suffered so much I pray I can find a good floor I wont react to.

I've been looking at www.naturalhomeproducts.com and they have hardwood flooring that seems to be very "green" friendly but I dont think I can afford it plus they ship it and you have what you have. I dont want something I cant use. Their flooring is called "junkers".

Can i get something from lowes that has no formalhydeand low-or prefably no voc's.

Please help. I am sincerely in need and frightened!

Cindy Thankyou.....Bless you and your website!

POSTED BY CINDY :: PENNSYLVANIA USA :: 5:06 PM

Flooring

QUESTION:

Because I'm extremely chemcially sensitive, I'm looking for very good and very bad experiences, as well as brand names, regarding reactions to new flooring with 1) cork flooring and 2) laminate flooring.

POSTED BY JKW :: ARIZONA USA :: 1:35 PM

Re-Finishing Wood Floors

QUESTION:

The wood floors in my home are in desperate need of a good re-finishing. But all the professionals use very toxic things to make them shine after they have been sanded. Is there anything I can ask my floor re-finisher to use instead to protect the wood and make it shine?

POSTED BY CAROL :: NY USA :: 1:48 PM

Possible reaction to new carpeting

QUESTION:

New carpets were just laid down in my friend's workplace a month or two ago - I think they are made of nylon. A couple of weeks ago she started feeling ill - nausea, dizziness, sinus congestion, and severe lethargy. Her doctor told her it was a virus, or possibly irritation of childhood ear injury. Could these symptoms be from the carpet? Are there any tests doctors can perform to determine whether patients are having a toxic reaction, or are there tests that can be done on the carpet itself to measure outgassing? Thanks for your responses!

POSTED BY CAT :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 12:00 PM

Outgassing Chairs

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

We recently bought 6 banana leaf dining chairs(I think from China) that are just beautiful. However, when they were brought into the house the odor was overwhelming. We now have had them in the garage for 10 days and there doesn't seem to be much change.

How long will it take to outgass? Should we try to seal them with a polyurethane type coating? Then would the polyurethane have to outgass, too? Would it wear off and we would be right back where we started?

I hope there is a solution. We love the chairs!

Thanks,
Karen

POSTED BY KAREN :: ARIZONA USA :: 5:03 AM

Williams-Sonoma Upholstered with Nontoxic Foam???

QUESTION:

Hi Debra...I just contacted WS Home because they are advertising nontoxic foam in their catalog. The cutomer service guy told me that in his booklet it states that there are no CFC's in their premium high resilency URETHANE foam. Is this considered nontoxic?

I recently had to get rid of my sofa because of mold contamination. I have enough AMX points to get the sofa from WS Home that I want but am concerned with the materials. Thank you so much for your work! You are a wonderfully generous person.

Member of The Princess and The Pea Community since '97.

POSTED BY ALISA :: SC USA :: 11:59 AM

Non-Toxic Leather Protection

QUESTION:

I would like to protect some fine leather furniture from spills and stains. Is "3M Scotch-Gard Protector for Upholstery" safe and nontoxic? If not, could you recommend a non-toxic alternative?

P.S. Thank you for providing a much-needed fantastic resource.

POSTED BY MARK :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 2:44 PM

Engineered wood and veneer

QUESTION:

Hi! I am considering buying a media stand from Crate&Barrel and they say it is made of solid wood, engineered wood and veneer. Can you please tell me what engineered wood is and what chemicals might be found in it and in the veneer? Thank you!

POSTED BY MAGGIE :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 7:02 AM

"rice" paper for shoji screens?

QUESTION:

My husband recently made shoji screens for our dining room. What we used for the "rice paper" was a synthetic product called "syn skin" that a local company that makes high-end shojis uses for all its screens. But when we received the product from TAP Plastics, it reeked of chemicals so badly, we had to leave it outside for at least a week before we were even willing to handle it.

For future shoji projects, can you recommend a nontoxic rice paper, and where to get it? Thanks.

POSTED BY RIMA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 6:10 PM

Couches - new or used?

QUESTION:

Hi, we need a new couch, but I want to avoid the PDBE fire retardents that seem to be in all upholstered furniture. The only company I've found that has PDBE-free foam is Ikea, and I've found a couch made from stainless steel (no particle board) but I assume there's still "stuff" in the new foam. If I can, I'd like to rehab a well-made used couch by reupholstering it. The problem is, the old couch cushions would be foam, and I can't find a healthy alternative for the pillows. I know there are companies that make organic furniture, but the cost is prohibitive. The other idea I had was an organic futon couch with a natural latex core, which is more affordable, but are they comfortable and do they hold up? Any suggestions?

Thanks!

POSTED BY LARISSA :: WEBSITES WITHOUT WORRY :: WEBSITESWITHOUTWORRY.COM :: VIRGINIA USA :: 2:29 PM

Safety of Stored Scented Candles

QUESTION:

Can scented candles that are being stored near you only (not being burnt or used) harm health? The smell of these candles from a scented candle showroom and storage next to us is very strong and it burns our eyes and throats. If they don't burn the candles and they are just storing them, can the strong smell harm health? Can soot, lead, metal and etc... travel when the candles are not used and they're just sitting there?

POSTED BY BITA :: NEW JERSEY USA :: 6:53 AM

Natural Carpets

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I would like to get the most natural and safest carpets out there. Everything I've read seems to suggest that Earthweave amd Nature's Carpet are the best natural wool rugs. The problem lies in there cost- too expensive. Are there cheaper alternatives? For example, Ikea and others carry natural wool area rugs but I can't seem to find out if the carpet backings are treated with adhesives or if the carpets are treated with moth-proofing agents or other chemicals. Sisal or jute seem to be good alternatives as well, but again are these fibers tyically treated with chemicals?

Thank you.

POSTED BY VAN :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 7:44 AM

Non-toxic Lightbulbs?

QUESTION:

Thanks for the information on non-toxic bathtubs, Debra! Now I am questioning light bulbs............do halogen bulbs outgas at an unsafe level? Which types of bulbs are best to use?

Thanks for a great website!

POSTED BY SUSAN HUNT :: ARIZONA USA :: 4:12 PM

batting in sofa

QUESTION:

I purchased a cotton sofa with foam batting wrapped in down; is this safe? If not will a cotton slip cover prevent the off gassing. I looked up afm safe choice capret lock out, but it says it's only for carpets. I emailed them to find out if this product can be used on my sofa. I haven't heard a response yet.

Your web site is a life saver.

Thank you

POSTED BY IB :: MICHIGAN USA :: 7:51 AM

Non-toxic Bathtubs

QUESTION:

Debra,
Thanks for the great information on your blog!
We are planning to remodel parts of our bathroom, such as using porcelain tile on the floors and inside the shower. We are trying to find out which bathtubs are the least toxic. The old acrylic tub that we've had for 15 years looks awful, and I would like to know if cast iron or porcelain on steel are the best bets. Thank you!

POSTED BY SUSAN H. :: ARIZONA USA :: 7:10 AM

window treatments for insulating the house

QUESTION:

debra And All,

I've been through all the sites mentioned in the "window coverings" section of Debra's list, and am still wrestling with this problem.

I want to buy a curtain for a sliding door situated on the bottom level of my house. This room gets very cold in the winter, and I'd like to buy a curtain which will provide some insulation.

www.countrycurtains.com has just such a curtain, but the insulation is in the form of acrylic foam backing on a cotton and polyester curtain. No one in this house has MCS, but I am trying to keep sustainability and toxicity in mind when making new purchases.

I am trying to decide whether to just buy this curtain and lighten the eco-footprint of the house in other ways, or whether to search for another product.

Do you have any product suggestions? This room is not fancy, so design isn't much of a concern.

POSTED BY ROBIN :: VIRGINIA USA :: 8:26 PM

Stain resistant furniture

QUESTION:

I purchased new upholstered furniture for my home 6 years ago before I was aware of the toxic consequences. It is all treated with stain resistant chemicals. I cannot afford to get new furniture. Is there a way to deal with this? If I put on slip covers will that help? Thank you.

POSTED BY KARIN :: INDIANA USA :: 11:28 AM

Prefinished Wood Flooring

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

We are looking to buy prefinished wood flooring from Lumber Liquidation for our living room, the only room that does not have hardwood floors in it. I noticed, however, you do not have an MCS symbol next to it. Would this be a product that you would not recommend for someone that is chemically sensitive. Thanks Sandy

POSTED BY SVW :: WASHINGTON USA :: 4:15 AM

Healthiest Flooring?

QUESTION:

Debra, this is my first visit to your website and I am impressed!

We are confused as to the best type of flooring that is healthier -- carpet, wood, or laminate?

We have a large single living area that is paneled with a browish Ash wood with hints of golden highlights and I have found it difficult to select a wooden floor that really blends well with the lliving area walls. We also have a concrete foundation and the dining area is white ceramic tile that would back up to the wooden flooring.

Health-wise, what type and brand of carpet is best?

Also, what brands of wooden flooring are healthiest? I'd appreciate it if you would mention some brand names of any healthier No-VOC or Low-VOC flooring.

Are there any particular brands of wooden or laminate flooring, or ceramic tile that qualify?

Also, do you have any suggestions about a specific color and brand name of paint that is a light tan/beige that doesn't look grayish or pinkish when put on the wall? Many thanks for your input!

Sammie

POSTED BY SAMMIE :: TEXAS USA :: 4:25 AM

Offgassing of New Furniture

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

We have gleaned so much relevant information from your books and website. Thank you so very much.

We are needing to buy a wingback lift chair that is not organic (we know of only one organic lift chair on the Furnature website, but it is a recliner & a wingback is required). Also, this particular chair has a memory foam seat, which, again is a necessity due to pressure concerns.

We have heard about some type of sealer that can be used on new carpet to help with the offgassing; is there any such product that could be used on new furniture for a similar purpose?

Are there any other options to help with the offgassing and chemical finish on non-organic upholstered furniture? Thank you and your readers for your input.
Sincerely,
Min

POSTED BY MIN :: VIRGINIA USA :: 8:24 AM

Is This Wood Floor Renewal System Safe?

QUESTION:

Hello Debra:

Can you shed some light on the process and toxicity level for this 'new' wood renewal from NHance? The parent company is Chem Dry.

Thanking you in advance.

POSTED BY LINDA :: SOUTH CAROLINA USA :: 4:22 PM

Sealing Toxic Particleboard Furniture

QUESTION:

I have a crazy situation. I put a $500.00 deposit down on some furniture I love, but found out it's wood veneer over fiber-board. I've been agonizing for a week whether to have it delivered or if I should lose my deposit, or at least some of it. My chiropractor muscle-tested me weak on formaldahyde, so it wouldn't be a great thing, but it was on sale for a really good price, it looks great, it's what I need, but I don't want to get sick and I don't want to feel hypocritical.

I found this stuff called Safe Coat which is supposed to stop most of the out-gassing but my friend says it will just slow it. Do you have any advice?

POSTED BY P. N. :: CALIFORNIA USA ::

Nontoxic Soundproofing

QUESTION:

I am looking for a way to add sound proofing in my house. I do not want to take out walls nor do I want to add polyurethane or other toxic sound proofing. Do you have any suggestions of nontoxic materials that I could hang behind fabric or some other way to maximize the privacy between rooms in a healthy way?

Thank you,

POSTED BY S. W. :: CALIFORNIA USA ::

Touching Up No-VOC Paint

QUESTION:

We are ready to paint a new house. I prefer using low- to no-VOC paint. Our painter is suggesting regular paint Sherwin-Williams "Builders Solution" because we are using some deeper colors and will need to tint...which would bring the low to no VOC paint up to VOC levels of the regular paint. Is this so?

I keep seeing the SafeCoat paint brand as I do some research. Have you ever used it? Can it be touched-up without noticing? Cleanable? I'm being told low to no VOC paint cannot be touched up easily and you have to end up re-doing the entire wall. What has been your experience??

Also, I keep getting told the VOC's in regular paint are gone after the paint is dry...that the out-gassing just stops at that point. I cannot seem to find any information or research showing otherwise. Do you know of any?

Thanks so much.

POSTED BY M.M. :: CALIFORNIA USA ::

Nontoxic Artwork

QUESTION:

I'd like to get your input on something.

In looking at some original paintings for my house, I've found that those done with oil are too smelly for me. So I'm wondering if I might have better luck with paintings done with acrylic paints.

I understand that acrylic can cause some serious health problems. But I'm wondering if acrylic paint is still a problem after it has cured; and how long does it take to cure to the point at which it no longer outgases?

Along these same lines, does acrylic in the form of Lexan/Lucite/Plexiglas pose any air quality/health problems?

I guess the bigger question might be: Even if acrylic is inert when cured, is the uncured product toxic enough that we should avoid it so as not to encourage its use?

POSTED BY J. K. :: FLORIDA USA ::

Sofa Cushions

QUESTION:

I purchased a used sofa and would like to replace the seat cushions. What can I use instead of foam?

POSTED BY M. G. :: TEXAS USA ::

Airing out a guitar

QUESTION:

I have the question about airing out a guitar.... Ive tried many things, yet still I have a polyurethane smell. Perhaps it is part of the wood itself and will not ever be gone. But just wondering what you would do?

Ive put baking soda in the' sound hole' , and I've tried baking it in the hot sun; and I've tried using powdered 'oxygen bleach' just recently. The smell is less, but I still use a cover over the sound hole.

POSTED BY R. Q. Z. :: NEVADA USA ::

Plywood resins

QUESTION:

I'm confused about plywood resins. I need to get kitchen cabinets for my new home, but there seems to be no such thing as actual solid wood cabinets. Even the ones called "solid wood" are made with plywood.

I've heard that exterior grade plywood has a less toxic resin that interior grade. Can you help me sort all this out?

POSTED BY T. A. :: NEW JERSEY USA ::

Wood Floor Bargains

QUESTION:

My husband and I are getting ready to redo the flooring in our home. He really wants to go with laminate flooring because of how inexpensive it is. I, however, am very concerned about the possible toxicity and outgassing associated with laminate flooring. Can you please recommend any "healthier" laminate flooring and/or any less expensive hardwood or bamboo type flooring. He doesn't fully agree with my concerns to keep our home as nontoxic as possible, so I must appeal to his pocketbook! Please help!

POSTED BY J. O. :: COLORADO USA ::

OK To Use Water-Based Latex Paint?

QUESTION:

I have a small child who frequently makes a mess on the walls, so I need to wash them often. I'd like to use a water-based paint that is designed for washing but there doesn't seem to be one that is low-VOC. Is it OK to use water-based latex paints?

POSTED BY P. S. :: CALIFORNIA USA ::

How Important is Flooring to Indoor Air Quality?

QUESTION:

Thank you so much for your willingness to share information for healthier living.

My husband and I purchased a home built in the 1920's. We're currently remodeling in the kitchen, and the floor is next.

In the overall larger picture of "green" remodeling, where do you believe hard surface flooring options fit? I've researched linoleum, vinyl, cork, bamboo, etc., and the no-VOC or "low"-VOC options are definitely more expensive. Regarding health implications, is the flooring a large factor, or not necessarily so? We have a remodeling budget to work within; any thoughts ideas are much appreciated!

POSTED BY F. R. :: MONTANA USA ::

Types of Wood Flooring

QUESTION:

We want to replace carpeting in our daughter's bedroom. She is chemically sensitive and so we were comparing prefinished wood flooring with laminate wood flooring. At our local Lowe's store we saw Bruce wood floor and a Pergo laminate. Is the laminate more toxic than the wood ? We hope to use a kind that needs neither gluing or nailing. The laminate is thicker for about the same price. Would it be more toxic?

We have also found an engineered hardwood Bruce flooring that does not require nailing or gluing. Since it is engineered, does that present any outgassing problems? Also if it requires laying foam underneath, would that present a challenge to the chemically sensitive since it would be sealed under the flooring?

POSTED BY R. W. :: SOUTH CAROLINA USA ::

VOC Emissions from Paints

QUESTION:

I reached your website through Google and had what I guess is an elementary question about VOCs [volatile organic chemicals] and paints. Are the VOCs emitted only during the drying time, or are they emitted continuously after that at lower levels? My wife and I are planning to build a house, very well insulated and airtight for energy efficiency. Hence our concern about VOCs.

POSTED BY M. R. :: KYOTO JAPAN ::

Experience with low-VOC paints

QUESTION:

I have a question for you on low/no VOC paints. We've used Glidden "Lifemaster2000" a couple of times and it works fine. Stronger smell than I thought it should, but better than regular.

My attention has now come to Pittsburgh Paints-"Pure Performance". It sounds very good, "Green Seal" and all. So many paint companies now have low/no VOC paints, I guess it's just preference and colors. PIttsburgh had really nice earthy colors, which is what I was looking for.

I guess, I'm just wondering if you have used "Pure Performance" or know anything about it good or bad?

Thanks sooooooo much for all your info and quick responses.

POSTED BY D.T. :: MASSACHUSETTS USA ::

Less Toxic Wood Finish You Can Buy At a Local Store

QUESTION:

What is the best wood finish I can buy at a local store? I don't have time to order on-line.

POSTED BY L. H. :: IDAHO USA ::