Polyurethane Carpet Padding/Cushion and Outgassing

QUESTION:

Since moving into an apartment with new carpet, I've had disturbing symptoms that come and go.. sore eyes, difficulty concentrating, headaches and uncomfortable tightness in the chest.

I think management will let me move to an apartment with older carpets, but I'm worried the padding they use underneath might take longer to outgas than just the carpet itself. I took a peek under an area of carpet and am sure the padding is rebond (bonded urethane).

Here's what I've gathered about the material:

"made by grinding flexible polyurethane foam into small particles and bonding them together with a chemical adhesive"
--krispyclean.com

"made from reclaimed scrap of high-density urethane foam used in furniture and automotive manufacturing"
--carpetbuyershandbook.com

I'm planning to request moving into a unit with 1-2year old carpet, but I'm concerned that might not be enough to alleviate symptoms. Polyurethane memory foam for bedding definitely makes my eyes burn and causes terrible headaches.

Anyhow, I have tried AFM Carpet Seal, but it seems to make things worse :( How ironic that I requested a unit with new carpet in the first place since I have allergies to mold and other things that grow on older carpet.

Thanks so much for reading

POSTED BY MK :: TEXAS USA :: 1:55 PM

EMFs in the fuse box and LED and LCD Tv's

QUESTION:

Hi Debra, I read about how you picked your house ect. (sounds a lot like me, exept some things were out of my realm. We built a house on our parents property so I tried to move it as far as I could from power lines. We are about 150 from the supply line and the transformer is right there as well. The supply lines are your typical house to house supply lines, I asked the power company once and i think they said 12 or 25k or something like that. The power runs right into my house into a bedroom, thats where we had to put our breaker box/fuse box/panel ect. Our bedroom is one door over. Our bed is probably 18 feet from the fuse box. But i would love to have a bedroom where someone could sleep in the one in that has the fuse panel but am afraid, would there be a HUGE amount of emfs there? It is 200 am service ect.

Second Part LCD vs LED

I'm reading more and more about CFL lights warnings and radiation and emf's ect. We have a 47 inch LCD TV and I am really afraid that all the CCFL bulbs in it is causing a lot of polution. (Which we also have a fireplace below it which is electrical, and is 1500 wats so maybe thats creating too much emf's as well. I tell ya im about to become afraid of everything power and chemicals now. We thought about replacing the living room lcd and put it in the bedroom because we have a traditional 36 inch regular tube type tv that is about 9 years old, so i first thought i'd love to replace all my tv's in the house with lcd, now im second guessing, would this be a mistake because of the CCFL bulbs? or should I go to the LED's? I read on one of your post where you had an expert say that the LED's pulsating and he doubted if that would help much, but I'm torn because now im afraid of CCFL. The bed, the foot of the bed is six foot from the tube type 36 inch television, and a flat panel would be about 7 and a half feet.
Thanks! :)

POSTED BY DOODLE :: KENTUCKY USA :: 11:35 AM

covering a particle board cupboard

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

We are renting an apartment with a large cupboard made out of particle board and wood veneer. I suspect it is pretty old (probably 10 years or more) but after reading about particle board and formaldehyde I am concerned that it may still be off-gassing.

I live in Israel so there is very little awareness of these issues and no products such as vapor barriers etc. or no VOC paints are available. I thought I could wrap the shelves with simple nylon sheets (the kind used to wrap school books) to minimize offgassing. Do you think that would work?

Thank you!

TE

POSTED BY TE :: NEW HAMPSHIRE ISRAEL :: 10:29 AM

composting toilet

QUESTION:

I am looking for the safest composting toilet to put in an MCS trailer for my daughter. She is very sensitive to plastics/ acrylics so I was wondering about the sun-mar toilet which is made of fiberglass. do you think that might be any safer for her?

POSTED BY MARGARET :: VIRGINIA USA :: 1:45 PM

mcs mask

QUESTION:

Hi! I have tried following masks to prevent chemical odors when I go out but in turn They irritated my nose and caused pain:

3m 8577 mask, I can breath mask(honey com mask carbon filter filter mask, 3m big silicon mask for protect from chemicals.

Are there any good mcs mask works well?

POSTED BY SP :: TEXAS USA :: 11:50 AM
CATEGORY — TOXICS :: 2 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Water Cooler Jug

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I am in the process of making my home plastic free, I have just about gotten rid of all plastics except for my water cooler jug. I have been in search for a BPA free water jug for sometime now but it seems like my only option is a glass one, which just won't work for me. I finally came across one that claims it is BPA free but is made of PET plastic. My question is, is PET safe? or do you or your readers know of any other safe jugs? Thanks for all the information on your wonderful site, I've learned so much form it.

POSTED BY JAX :: ILLINOIS USA :: 4:26 PM

Fused Bags

QUESTION:

Looking for a way to recycle my plastic bags I found out about fused bags. I made a couple and loved it! However, in some blogs they say it's toxic to made them; in some others they say they are not, as long as a windows is kept open.

I did the first fused bags in my apartment, a big window open, and the a/c on. And I did the second one outdoors. But I live in a very hot and humid place so I rather to make them in my apartment (also, there was no wind so... it was not so ventilated). I also used a 3M respirator, but it looks it is for dust not outgassing.

I am pregnant so I am concerned about my baby's health. Is the fused bag making truly toxic? Or can I keep making them in my apartment a/c on, windows open and using a respirator?

Thanks!!

POSTED BY LIBBY :: ARIZONA USA :: 3:41 PM

jadite

QUESTION:

Hi, fire king jadite, the vintage stuff, is an opaque light green. I guess it is borosilicate glass from what I read. Is this lead free? I cannot find more out about this topic. I have read it is ok to microwave in, but not use in the dishwasher. I would like to feel safe in using these old dishes for everyday. Thanks for everything!

POSTED BY CARI :: WISCONSIN USA :: 11:41 AM

Safety of orange or citrus cleaners, insect repellant, solvent, etc.

QUESTION:

In the late 1990's, I was required to attend an OSHA lecture given by Monona Rossol, President/founder of Arts, Crafts and Theater Safety, Inc., which provides health and safety services to the arts. I recall her writing the molecular structure of orange oil next to the molecular structure of an E.P.A.-regulated pesticide. They were identical. She said think of all the people spraying orange-based cleaners believing they were safe when the molecular structure was the same as a regulated pesticide.

I have never used citrus based products since. But I see in stores and on your web site that these types of products are still popularly considered and advertised to be safe.

Do you know anything about citrus-based products and pesticide (I don't know which particular one) being molecularly identical?

(She lectured on this topic because citrus based solvent was being used as an alternative to low-odor solvents in art. I had used each solvent and both were so irritating that I was up at night coughing from them. I switched to other media.)

She said that just because something comes from nature does not mean it is a safe replacement for other materials. Many chemicals in plants can kill us.

Thank you.

POSTED BY J.C.L. :: TEXAS USA :: 11:35 AM

removing rust and painting an old refrigerator

QUESTION:

I have an older refrigerator that I want to remove the rust from and repaint it (a new one is out of the question right now). I am allergic to chemicals. Are there environmentally friendly rust removers and metal paint available?
Thanks

POSTED BY JHWMSLS :: GEORGIA USA :: 6:38 AM

Non-Toxic Way to Clean mortar from new Brick on house without getting into garden?

QUESTION:

Hi Debra! My father has just finished bricking my home, we did probably 90% brick, anyways, he mentioned I might need to use an acid on my brick to get the excess and splatter of mortar off. I'm afraid to use this, being I try to use everything green. I also worry about the garden out back. I tried a little vinager, of course it was no match to the mortar. (It worked well in my kitchen grout tho! lol) Do you have any suggestions? Oh they told me since I had a sanded finish on my brick that if i used a wire brush or power washer it would take the finish off. I havent a clue what to do now? They also said to try Tide, and even though I use Eco friendly laundry detergeant I thought it was better than acid on my brick, but... i just tried a little spot and it only took the tiny stuff off. Any suggestions? :)

POSTED BY DOODLE :: KENTUCKY USA :: 9:11 AM

L. A. Times: In Search of A Nontoxic Home

QUESTION:

This article about the home of a woman with MCS appeared in the L. A. Times this week.

wL. A. Times: In Search of A Nontoxic Home

POSTED BY LMPD42 :: CALIFORNIA JAPAN :: 8:42 AM
CATEGORY — TOXICS :: 0 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Flame preventing chemicals in beds

QUESTION:

I am reading from some sources that even natural mattresses are now required to add some sort of flame resistant chemical to their beds because even wool can no longer pass the open flame test that is used. The article claims that these manufacturers are not required by law to show what chemicals they are using or even admit that they do so. Is there some place to find information that would confirm or refute this claim? Since the source I read it from is actually selling mattresses, I am concerned that it may be in his own best interest to disseminate such information whether true or not.

POSTED BY RON :: ARIZONA USA :: 1:26 PM

Fabri-coate fabric protector

QUESTION:

I have a question about Guardsman Fabric-coate, a fabric protector. My daughter is moving to her first apartment and found a sofa she loves. The salesperson is, of course, pushing for this product to be put on the sofa and used an impressive demonstration. The sofa is polyester and I would like to know which is worse...the fabri-coate or the polyester outgassing. Would the protector keep the sofa from outgassing? She is not MCS but I got a headache and scratchy throat after visiting the furniture store. Any thoughts?

POSTED BY KAREN :: ARIZONA USA :: 1:06 PM

Bathroom remodel HELP!

QUESTION:

I am remodeling 2 bathrooms and I want to make sure I am doing it as least toxic as possible. I have a small child with special needs who does not have a strong immune system.

My contractor told me he typically uses Tec Full Flex (latex modified thin set mortar) for floors and Tec Double Duty (ceramic tile adhesive for walls & floors) for walls. What are the least toxic alternatives to these products?

Also, what other products should I purchase and have on hand to ensure a safe remodel?

There are sooo many products out there so any and all advice is GREATLY appreciated!
Susan

POSTED BY SUSAN :: NEW JERSEY USA :: 2:57 PM

Question on MDF furniture & gassing off

QUESTION:

Hi there. Does anyone know the general rule of MDF furniture & the gassing off period? I am contemplating buying this Pottery Barn coffee table & media cabinet, but some of the panels & shelves are MDF, they admit.

I am considering asking if I could buy their floor model, thinking the gassing off would have already occurred. But my biggest question is: Does MDF gass off FOREVER? Or does it go away over time, say a few days or months or whatever.

I've searched the internet & can't really find a definitive answer. I'd be willing to purchase this furniture & let it gas off outside my home even for a while if I know that's all I needed to do.

Thank you to Debra & anyone else who can help me decide on whether to buy this beautiful "looking" furniture, or not.

POSTED BY NICOLETTE :: OHIO USA :: 7:05 PM

Cotton Field Poisons

QUESTION:

I live across the street from a Cotton Field also and, thankfully, they no longer do crop dusting, but they still spray poison and I get hives intermittently if exposed to the poison. We often get sick, as in sore throats when they spray the defoliant. Are there any ways to protect the house as far as the air goes?

POSTED BY PATTI :: ALABAMA USA :: 6:44 PM

formica

QUESTION:

Do old (60 years) Formica counter tops need to be cause for concern? Can they become toxic?
Is there any outgassing? Should they be thrown in a landfill?

POSTED BY DEB :: NEW YORK USA :: 8:07 AM

auto/car windshield replacement adhesive VOCs

QUESTION:

Hi,

I am MCS and have to replace my car window. I am worried about the VOCs in the adhesive and how long it would take to offgas.

How long am I going to need a rental car (another issue in itself) Are there any safer adhesives meant for car windows ?

I will ask them to be extra carefull not to slather it on the interior.

Anyone with experience on this?

The one positive is the weather is nice right now and the car gets hot so I can offgas.

Just want to know if there is a safer choice .

Thanks
Catadelle

POSTED BY CATADELLE :: WASHINGTON USA :: 8:01 AM

Formaldehyde fumes

QUESTION:

Can formaldehyde fumes be absorbed through the skin, such as from a new mattress or furniture?

POSTED BY ROXANNE :: ALABAMA CANADA :: 7:34 AM

neoprene dumbbells

QUESTION:

I just bought a dumbbell made of wroght iron coated with neoprene. Is this material safe to touch and/or does it off-gas? -Marc

POSTED BY MARC :: FLORIDA USA :: 7:20 AM

help! Cell phone melted in oven... what to do?

QUESTION:

Should I use an oven after accidentally melting a cellphone in it? Should I even attempt to clean it, and if so, how?

here's the embarrassing backstory:

After dropping my cellphone in the tub (oops!) a friend encouraged me to dry it out in the oven. I was very careful - warmed the oven up to its lowest setting, let it cool down until it was barely warm, took the battery out, and placed it on a thin cotton dishtowel on the top rack and closed the door, intending to remove it in a few hours.

Fast forward 6 hours, it's time for dinner, and I preheat the oven (I think that it was 350 or 400 degrees farenheit, it may have been broil), forgetting that the cellphone is in there!!!! After the oven preheated I opened the door, and a cloud of noxious burning-plastic smelling fumes billow out in my face... I scream, snatch the hot cellphone in the cotton cloth, close the oven door, run outside, throw it on the porch steps, and collapse in my car sobbing. I was so angry at myself, and convinced that I had just badly polluted my house, the one place that is a relatively safe space for me right now (I have MCS), and let's not even think about my lovely oven. My husband opened all the windows in the house and coaxed me back inside after an hour, convincing me that the odors had dispersed. I didn't smell anything, although I did get a few hives that night, which may or may not have had to do with the fumes.

This was two weeks ago, and I haven't touched the oven. I know that circuit boards have a lot of toxic components. The phone itself was metal on the outside, with a plastic frame inside. Before I threw it out I noticed that the phone had warped slightly, and the plastic that was visible inside had bent. I'm pretty sure that it was sitting button-down, battery housing up. now I wish that I had kept it, so that I could examine the circuit board... at the time I just wanted it far, far away.


*here's the question*

Would you still use this oven (assuming that you have MCS)? How would you clean it? What are the odds that the toxic elements have settled on the inside surface of the oven with the smoke deposits, or dripped onto the bottom of the oven? (there was a thin cotton cloth under it which my mom then laundered so I can't inspect it, I don't even know which dish cloth it was! I don't remember anything drippy when I grabbed it)
I was considering replacing the stove anyway, since it is gas (electric oven, gas top). I do love it and have not yet noticed getting sick around the gas as some people do, although I have been warned by other people with MCS that gas is almost always a problem and that I will not get well until I eliminate it from my home. Replacing the stove would be very costly and inconvenient, and then I have the moral dilema of selling a used oven that might not be safe for someone else, either.

Help! All advice is appreciated...

POSTED BY FORGETFUL FRAU :: NEW YORK USA :: 7:09 AM

alternative to naval jelly

QUESTION:

Hi Debra - thanks so much for all you do for us folks with MCS. I hope you or your readers can help me.

I need to remove the old slotted metal cover plate from a shower drain, but the screws are very old, rusted and corroded and won't budge. I can't cut the plate out because the housings for the screws are solidly integrated as a part of the drain pipe fitting (no flimsy side attachments here - they don't make 'em like they used to!).

The hardware store suggested naval jelly, but one look at the MSDS sent me out the door shivering. Is there a safe - or at least less toxic - alternative for naval jelly? Once the cover plate is off it will be replaced with a new metal one that snaps in, eliminating the need for screws in the future. Can you help me? Thanks!

POSTED BY MARY ANNE :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 11:23 AM

Refurbishing bathtubs

QUESTION:

Has anyone ever heard of a method used to refurbish a bathtub known as "epoxy polyurethane oxide"? The company that uses this method would be spraying this solution on the tub that we are hoping to have refinished. I will be bathing my 3 young grandchildren in the tub, and I don't want to cause any harm to them if this method is toxic in any way. Thank you!

POSTED BY SUSAN :: LOUISIANA USA :: 4:43 PM

Green Friends and Home Help

QUESTION:

Making new friends or hiring any home help - from a plumber to a cleaning person is always difficult. I have explain and educate about the scent in self-care and laundry products and often supply them with new products (expensive!) Many people are emotionally attached to their products and are not interested or even offended. Those who are willing to work with me rarely get it right even after many trys. The worst is that now with molecularly binding laundry products the scent cannot be washed out. (Well, 5-10 washingings and drying in the very hot summer sun only will do it on natural fibers for me.)

It is not hard for one to control what one uses - but others is a different story. Last summer I had some new doors installed and it was the contractor and his help that reeked not the builing materials! Now I need my kitchen done - oouch! Anyone have anything to share about how they deal with this? Full body coveralls?!?!

POSTED BY WJW :: MARYLAND USA :: 1:57 PM

New car outgas interior

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,
I am enjoying your newsletter. It is very informative.
Does anyone have tips and past experience on how to outgas the interior of a new car with cloth seats and carpet...quickest and most efficient way I have MCS.
thank you
Joseph

POSTED BY JOSEPH :: LOUISIANA USA :: 10:27 AM

Do Plastics Off-Gas?

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

First I would like to thank you for all your help and the valuable information you are making available. Thank you thank you! Way to go!

I've been wondering if "everyday" household items made from plastic are off-gassing petrochemicals. Some examples would be plastic food storage containers, plastic flowerpots, plastic broomhandles and dustpans, etc. Thanks for any info on this.

POSTED BY KATIE :: MINNESOTA USA :: 10:22 AM

chemical smell from not-so-recently refinished wood floors

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I saw a similar posting about the finish on hardwood floors, but this one's a bit different. I recently moved into an apartment that, back in November of 2008, had the hardwood floors refinished with what I think is polyurethane. When I first looked at the place, there was a fairly strong chemical odor that I thought was from the recent painting of the apartment, but now that I've moved in I'm realizing that it hasn't dissipated. I've put my nose to the hardwood floors and there is definitely a sharp chemical smell coming from them. Do you know what would cause floors to smell this strongly months after they've been refinished? Is there anything I can do now to dispel the odor? Thank you.

POSTED BY NEIL :: NEW HAMPSHIRE USA :: 5:47 AM

Dangers of Rubbing Alcohol

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I came across a comment in a past blog about the health hazards of rubbing alcohol, because it is petrochemical based. Can you tell me more about these health hazards and why you do not recommend rubbing alochol? I've had a bad feeling about it for awhile, but would like to learn some solid facts on why. Thanks so much,

Katie

POSTED BY KATIE :: MINNESOTA USA :: 10:39 AM

Removing recently laid carpet

QUESTION:

A friend recently had carpet put down to replace another one that was floored. The installer used an adhesive to glue the carpet to the house's cement foundation. She has had a negative reaction, from either the carpet or the adhesive or both. Several week have gone by and she is still very sensitive to the outgassing odors. So she is going to remove the carpet and have ceramic tile installed.

First, what is the safest way to remove any adhesive left on the cement foundation.

Second, are there ways to green up the ceramic tile installation? Should there be a cementboard subfloor installed over the concrete, before the "mud" is put on and the tiles laid. Is there a green grout that can be specified. People often say they will be using green products, but it isn't always what happens.

Thanks to all of you for any sharing of your experiences or advice about this!

POSTED BY REENIE :: FLORIDA USA :: 6:36 AM

Food Grade Polyethylene Containers

QUESTION:

We are a tiny manufacture (>50K) of a liquid organic product. Some of our product was stored in high-density polyethylene food grade containers, while another batch was stored in low-density polyethylene, food grade containers.

All the product in in HDP containers was ruined. The product in the LDP is fine. Everything was handled the same way. In as much as we lost 90% of our harvest and value added product, we plan to switch to glass containers. However, I am curious about why this happened and if others have knowledge about food grade plastic containers and leaching. Thank you for any links or ideas.

POSTED BY PLF :: MISSOURI USA :: 6:33 AM

Kevlar and EMF's

QUESTION:

Can a Kevlar shield protect from EMF's? I have a couple of film bags that I use when travling through the airport. I was thinking of using it at work where there is a wi-fi hotspot transmeter 2 feet from my legs. I was thinking of placing the kevlar film bag right over the hotspot. In the mean time I am saving up for a trifield meter.

POSTED BY ANDRES :: FLORIDA USA :: 10:35 AM

Fiberglass swimming pools

QUESTION:

I was reading about the latest trend in swimming pools and learned about fiber glass in ground pools. Do you know if there is a safety issue in using one of these pools verses a concrete in ground pool?

Gayle

POSTED BY GAYLE :: MICHIGAN USA :: 10:29 AM

Ink or paper used in printing books, newspapers etc

QUESTION:

I developed MCS about 3 yrs ago. One of the issues I have the most trouble with is reading any printed matter. Newspapers are the worst offenders, then paperback books,then hardback books and magazines. I assume it's the ink because photos printed from a computer also bother me alot. How does one know if ink used in printing contains toxins? Guess it could be the paper too. I would appreciate comments on this matter.I am considering one of the reading devices that books can be downloaded onto but most of them are plastic which I also have trouble with. Any thoughts, ideas or experiences would be appreciated. This blog has been very very helpful to me. Thank you so much.

POSTED BY ANNE T :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 1:42 PM

European Chemical Clampdown Reaches Across Atlantic

QUESTION:

Scientific American
September 30, 2008

European Chemical Clampdown Reaches Across Atlantic
Many chemicals manufactured in the U.S. have been pronounced "dangerous" by the European Union

By David Biello
BAD CHEMISTRY: At least 16--and as many as hundreds--of chemicals produced in the U.S. will be classified as dangerous by the E.U.

Hundreds of chemicals likely to be identified by the European Union (E.U.) as "substances of very high concern" are produced throughout the U.S., sometimes in large quantities. In fact, chemicals such as varieties of plastic-softening phthalates –linked to developmental and reproductive problems because they mimic hormones–are produced in excess of hundreds of million of pounds per year, according to a new report from Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) that is based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data from 2001.

"Many chemicals that the E.U. has already identified as dangerous and will eventually regulate are produced in the U.S. by many different companies at many different sites," says biochemist Richard Denison of EDF, author of the report "Across the Pond: Assessing REACH's First Big Impact on U.S. Companies and Chemicals". "The market is going to respond to that, companies that use those chemicals will be looking to find safer alternatives."

These dangerous chemicals have been identified via the E.U.'s 2007 Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) law, which requires the disclosure of all chemicals sold in the E.U. in quantities of more than one metric ton per year. As it stands, 16 chemicals, including three phthalates , are already on the REACH list as chemicals of concern. And in coming years, the REACH law will require that companies prove the safety of a given chemical before it is allowed to be sold; those chemicals deemed dangerous–or "substances of very high concern" due to associated human health risks–will only be sold with special governmental permission.

Of the 267 chemicals on the potential expanded REACH list compiled by the International Chemical Secretariat in Sweden, two are regulated in some form under U.S. law–asbestos and hexavalent chromium (chromium VI)–and only one third have even been tested by the EPA. "Asbestos is the poster child for what's wrong with the Toxics Substances Control Act," the 1976 U.S. law governing such chemicals, Denison says. EPA attempted to craft a regulation to ban its use only to have it rejected by courts. "They couldn't even do it for asbestos," which causes lung disease and cancer.

All told, the U.S. manufactures more than one billion pounds (455 million kilograms) of 14 potential REACH-listed chemicals, including two varieties of toluene; 85 more are made in quantities exceeding one million pounds (455,000 kilograms), like the phthalates which have already been regulated in some cases in the E.U.

BASF, Chemtura, Dow, DuPont and Equistar make the most of these suspect chemicals in the U.S., and Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas host operations that manufacture them. Some of the most commonly produced dangerous chemicals include benzene, formaldehyde, styrene, hexane and butadiene.

Whereas Germany-based chemical giant BASF "unreservedly supports the goals of REACH in protecting man and the environment," it remains unclear how that will impact its chemical operations in the U.S. "Chemical manufacturing is our core business," BASF spokesman Daniel Pepitone says. "We have already begun an internal product evaluation and, based on risk assessment, we want to review all substances produced or sold worldwide in the BASF Group in quantities of more than one metric ton."

"Information regarding the hazardous properties of substances is simply one component that is needed for the safe and responsible handling of chemical products," he continues. "Further information, such as the type and extent of potential exposure to humans and the environment, is also required."

And some U.S. states are taking matters into their own hands: California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) signed into law yesterday two bills that will attempt to identify dangerous substances manufactured or used in the state, develop safer alternatives to commonly used dangerous compounds as well as create a web-based database of common chemicals for individuals.

This legislation "puts an end to the less effective chemical-by-chemical bans of the past," Schwarzenegger said in a statement . "We will stop looking at toxics as an inevitable by-product of industrial production. Instead, they will be something that can be removed from every product in the design stage–protecting people's health and our environment."

This came to me from Lawrence Plumlee via Dr Paula Davey.

POSTED BY JULIE LARSON :: INDIANA USA :: 5:27 PM
CATEGORY — TOXICS :: 0 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

lead in power cord

QUESTION:

I recently purchased a Gold N Hot ceramic flat iron straightening iron. When I opened it there was a tag reading Warning: The power cord on this product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

This really scared me,,,Is it harmful, and why are they still selling something like this. Should I take it back, or do all cords on irons have lead in them?

POSTED BY CLARA :: INDIANA USA :: 4:57 PM

vinyl posters

QUESTION:

I just decorated my children's room with vinyl posters. They are removeable and have lots of variety. A popular one are the FatHeads of sports teams. Are these types of cling-ons safe? Do they release toxins into the air?

POSTED BY CARLA :: OHIO USA :: 9:52 AM

Toxic Chemicals in Products

QUESTION:

I am surprised that this site does not do more in the way of researching food supply, cosmetics and toiletries. Most of our food supply, cosmetics and toiletries are supplied by the Dow chemical company. Toothpaste, underarm deodorant, mouthwash, makeup, shampoos, body lotions and creams, and much much more, all have synthetic chemicals in them. Propylene glycol (made by the Dow Chemical Company) is a chemical that is in anti-freeze; but also in hair gels, underarm deodorants, makeup and in some butters. This chemical has huge side effects to the human body.

I have learned that what goes into your body and onto your skin should be edible. If a lotion is applied to your skin, your skin is "eating that lotion." The daily use of chemicals entering your body has just increased. Toothpaste is hazardous to anyone putting it on their teeth, you are not eating it, but once on the teeth it is being consumed into the body and the chemicals in toothpaste are deadly. Underarm deodorant is hazardous because of the chemicals and that staying on the skin fronm morning to night 365 days a year times your age results in many side effects. Sunscreen lathering starts early in life and causes cancer and other diseases instantly.

One thing I have learned in one year since my husband had colon and liver cancer (2007)and survived are the words from his doctor: My husband smoked for 30 years, but he stated that his cancer did not come from cigarettes. He stated in private to me that he could lose his license for what he was about to tell me. Foods, prescription medicines and cosmetics and toiletries cause more harm to the body than a cigarette could ever do, because of the chemicals 365 days a year times our age. Our bodies (specifically our cells) have a hard time fighting off chemicals 365 days a year-bottom line.

No one in 2008 takes the time to do research on the chemicals in every single item that comes near their body or into their body-the FDA allows many companies to do what they want to do-no monitoring from them whatsoever. Sodium nitrite has many side effects including arthritis. It is allowed in processed meats and all deli meats but not allowed in organic meats. Everyone cannot afford organic. That is sad. Many ingredients are allowed without FDA approval including cosmetics and toiletries. Prescription drugs kills and yet the companies are allowed to continue selling the drug. Big Pharm runs this country, not the FDA.

POSTED BY TERRI WILLIAMS :: MARYLAND USA :: 8:51 AM

Sleep Number Bed?

QUESTION:

Does anyone have information about the Sleep Number bed? My doctor suggested it as I have so much trouble sleeping & she says it uses air for support.

POSTED BY KATE :: VIRGINIA USA :: 8:27 AM

Formaldehyde by any other name...is just as bad...

QUESTION:

Hi Debra, Having MCS I try to avoid anything with formaldehyde, however I know there are probably a lot of alternative names for formaldehyde used in products. Do you know or have a list of such alternative names that one should look for? Thanks sv

POSTED BY SV :: WASHINGTON USA :: 2:25 PM

non toxic tent?

QUESTION:

Hello,
Thanks for running the great site again.
Are most tents treated with fire retardant and formaldehyde?
Is it possible to buy a non toxic tent and camping gear? Or should we just give up camping? Thanks so much.

POSTED BY DIANNE :: BC CANADA :: 6:19 AM

Barbeque Blues

QUESTION:

My neighbor just bought a propane barbecue, and the fumes put me out of the house. Is propane the problem, or is it the new barbecue out gassing?

POSTED BY SUZANNE OLSON :: CA USA :: 10:48 PM

ceiling fan odor..is it toxic

QUESTION:

We recently purchased a new Hunter ceiling fan. Upon opening the box and removing the parts, a strong chemical type odor filled the bedroom. Are these toxic fumes? Should we return the fan or let it air out in a well ventilated room before installation?
This product was made in China.

Thank you for your help.

POSTED BY RMD :: MICHIGAN USA :: 12:31 PM

tarnished jewelry safe

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

Can you tell me if tarnished jewelry is safe to wear? Specifically, I'm wondering about sterling silver earrings that are tarnished and have glints of the copper alloy coming through when once it was a pure silver look.

I know that silver polishing can be quite toxic, so I do not want to use any chemical polish.

I'm just wondering if the tarnished earrings are safe to wear as is.

Also, is there any other reason that sterling silver would not be safe to wear as jewelry?

Thank you.

POSTED BY LISA :: AZ USA :: 6:03 AM

recycled rubber

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

More and more, I notice that shoe soles are advertised as being made from recycled rubber. Are there any health concerns you would have from wearing shoes made of this recycled rubber? I am guessing that the recycled rubber is most likely from car tires.

Do you have any information about this?

Many children's playgrounds use shredded rubber tires as a bedding material to cover the ground.

Is this safe for children to play on?

POSTED BY LISA :: AZ USA :: 5:52 AM

Toxic Metals

QUESTION:

I'm a mother of a 7 year old non-verbal autistic boy. I discovered your book Home Safe Home through a biomedical support group in Central Ohio that I'm a part of. Most parents that pursue biomedical intervention also known as DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) are always looking for the sources of the toxins our children are exposed to so that we may eliminate them (for example: we know that new carpeting is a huge source for antimony - a lot of families we know are having their carpet removed and we're looking into the wool carpet). We are doing periodic toxin screens (urine and/or fecal). These are the metals that our children our being tested for: 

Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Bismuth
Cadmium
Copper
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Platinum
Thallium
Thorium
Tin
Tungsten
Uranium

It would be very helpful for me and other families in our situation if we could search for a toxin and find a list of sources that we may change. In our case, our son is pulling out an unbelievable amount of cadmium. It's almost maxed out. He's very toxic in this and we are trying to isolate some sources, but we can't seem to find it as of yet. 

Please let me know if you know of a site, book, etc. that would be beneficial for our family and others like ours. 

One final note, your book Home Safe Home has completely changed our lives for the better and we thank you. Our whole family has benefited from your time and effort into researching, writing, and publishing of your book. We are eternally grateful! 

POSTED BY DIANA :: OHIO USA :: 12:31 PM

random plastics

QUESTION:

Debra,

I have two plastic/rubber questions on items I don't use to eat off of, but use regularly nonetheless. I read on your site that neoprene, which I believe you said is rubber, is not safe to eat off of. But what about the neoprene covered dumbbells? Are those safe to exercise with? The metal ones really hurt my hands.

Similarly, are plastic items such as scotch tape safe to use to wrap for example sandwiches in parchment paper? Thanks!

POSTED BY JF :: PA USA :: 11:31 AM

What we pick up on our shoes

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

When I'm walking on city side walks or parking lots, I often encounter litter that seems like it could be of a toxic nature. Sometimes I don't see the items until I step on them with my shoes. I'm wondering if such things such as a cracked cigarette lighter/lighter fluid or old, corroded, weather exposed double A batteries would warrant replacing the shoes.

I don't want to continue tracking any potential toxins around, especially in my home.

Thank you.

POSTED BY LISA :: AZ USA :: 11:05 AM

Ikea particle board furniture

QUESTION:

Dear Debra

I have recently bought a second-hand Ikea bed frame, which is described as birch verneer with some sort of particle board inside. I have been reading that particle board can give off formaldehyde fumes, and was wondering if you know whether Ikea furniture is safe in this respect,

Sincerely

Clancy

POSTED BY C KELLY :: VICTORIA AUSTRALIA :: 3:36 PM

Bisphenol-A in Other Household Plastics

QUESTION:

Is this a problem in other commonly plastic kitchen/bathroom products? I'm looking at our plastic Mr. Coffee maker and electric tea kettle which DH got for me after I burned up 2 on the stove. Thanks

POSTED BY COLLEEN :: ALASKA USA :: 11:55 PM

Ethyl Mercaptan

QUESTION:

I need to know if ethyl mercaptan can be transferred from the field guys, delivering the propane to residential units, to the office carpeting if they walk through the office after a days work. I would presume they sometimes will get a small blast after removing the valves or it may just transfer to their clothing from handling the equipment. Is there a protocol that propane drivers use when ending the day, such as change clothes at the yard. Are there any internet sites that speak exclusively to this matter. Are there any folks reading this that have actual experience working with propane delivery. All your assistance is greatly appreciated.

POSTED BY JIM THURBER :: :: TELSLTD.COM :: VIRGINIA USA :: 1:28 PM

How do I seal caulk I'm sensitive to?

QUESTION:

Last week I had a soundproofing firm come install a second set of interior windows in my livingroom to lessen city noise. I'm chemically sensitive. Though I tested this relatively nontoxic caulk on a piece of cardboard ahead of time (it's Pecora--and is an acrylic latex that supposedly cures by evaporating water and is used in schools because low VOCs) it is really bothering me and I can't work at my desk. I realize testing 2 inches is not the same as living with about 30 feet of caulk around windows.

Its curing very slowly because it's winter and because I guess by its nature does not cure as fast as stinky ones. Nonetheless it's affecting me and maybe won't really cure for months.

What is the best sealant I can put over it to help myself? It is paintable. AFM says put hardseal. I don't want to make ANY mistakes and want to seal it thoroughly.

I'm very disappointed this happened as I thought the caulk was okay when I tested a small amount.

Thanks.

POSTED BY JENBOOKS :: NEW YORK USA :: 2:22 PM

Take Back My TV

QUESTION:

This year, Americans will buy 30 million new digital TVs.

So what happens to the old TVs we don't want any more? They shouldn't go in the trash, since they are filled with toxic chemicals (like lead) that don't belong in the landfill. Many consumers will try to do the responsible thing, and recycle them.

But have you ever wondered what happens when you "recycle" your old TV?

Chances are your old TV will end on up the other side of the world in a huge dumpsite in Africa or Asia. Once there, workers in primitive backyard recycling operations strip out any useful metals and other components and then set the pile on fire to make room for more waste on the next barge. You can't imagine the scene as black smoke full of dangerous chemicals fills the sky and pollutes the water supply.

See for yourself by watching this shocking video: URL

TVs are often the center of American households -- but on the other side of the world, they're creating an environmental and health crisis that can't be ignored any longer. And the problem is only getting worse. Soon, an FCC-mandated transition to digital TV signal will make millions more TVs obsolete, and Americans will begin discarding them in record numbers.

Join the Take Back My TV campaign today by sending a letter to the executives of TV manufacturers telling them to take responsibility for their hazardous waste: URL

Sincerely,
Barbara Kyle
Electronics TakeBack Coalition
(Formerly Computer TakeBack Campaign)

POSTED BY BARBARA KYLE :: TAKE BACK MY TV :: WWW.TAKEBACKMYTV.COM :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 5:10 PM

how toxic are moth balls?

QUESTION:

Dear Debra- I found a used car I wanted to buy (Accord 1997) but the man who owns it put car in storage for 2 months each winter with MOTH BALLS inside the car! I have asthma and resperatory sensitivities and even though he says the smell wears out, I wonder if this trigger reactions? I've never used moth balls before. Thanks! Mara

POSTED BY MARA DI DONNA :: NEW YORK USA :: 3:21 PM

Petroleum distillate on butcher block

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

I accidentally put a coat of Howard's Feed-n-Wax Wood Preserver (Beeswax & Orange Oil) on my new butcher block. I didn't notice that it contains petroleum distillate. How do I remove this from the table top or clean it to make it safe to cut foods?

Thank you.

M. from San Francisco

POSTED BY MARLON SIMS :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 12:13 PM

plastic

QUESTION:

good morning debra,

i have had your site on my bookmarks for quite some time now but this is my first interaction. i have been incorporating green approaches into my life for the past 25 years or so also.

i was interested in the plastic items offered and wondered if you were aware of the research initially done at tufts university that discovered that plastic emits an estrogen like chemical when handled. the thicker the plastic the greater the estrogen that is emitted. for example a plastic vegetable bag would emit less estrogen than a plastic container lid being snapped on or a baby's bottle hitting the floor. the harder the plastic the greater the amount of estrogen emitted. i do believe all plastic emits this estrogen like chemical.

i first became aware of this issue while listening to an interview on npr with the oncology physician who discovered this fact. she thought her experiment was contaminated because the cells in the test tubes were growing rapidly as if exposed to estrogen. she began eliminating aspects of the experiment until she was left holding the plastic test tube and that is when she tumbled. she has written a book about it. the important issue is that estrogen causes tumors to grow. a pre-menopausal woman who develops breast cancer has a lower likely hood of survival than a post-menopausal woman. it is not just breast cancer that this substance effects.

it was quite a few years before i even began to see this information in the mainstream press and then it was a rare occurrence. it has remained quite out of the public domain which surprises me. think of the chaos this would cause given that so much of our lives are linked to plastic. our watering systems are now almost entirely dependent on p.v.c. china could implode.

i personally never drink water from plastic bottles. every time that plastic crackles you are infusing the water with another dink of estrogen. i also use only glass for food storage and have made a wonderful collection of vintage glass storage containers that actually stack quite well. i try to be pragmatic. i do not empty all of the yogurt containers into glass but i do tend to transfer food items, such as cottage cheese, into glass once i have opened them. i do still use baggies but often will use aluminum foil in its place.

POSTED BY LINDA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 8:03 PM

husband swims and smells like chlorine

QUESTION:

what can he use so he doesn't smell like chlorine (for my sake) after he swims?

POSTED BY EMMY :: INDIANA USA :: 10:57 AM

Safe Light Therapy

QUESTION:

I have been researching light therapy boxes on the internet. These are for seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

I haven't been able to find any products that don't have some plastic components. I don't know whether a product exists made of only metal, glass, porcelain, etc. Some claim to have a "steel cabinet with a baked enamel finish to reduce out-gassing", but then the front of the unit is made of plastic. Some don't mention what the materials are. When I call to inquire, I get people who don't know anything about the materials.

Does anyone have any personal experience with this type of product? I belive my husband would greatly bennefit from light therapy, but I am extremely environmentaly sensitive, and I don't want to introduce something potentially toxic into my home.

Thanks for any help!
Jane Ann

POSTED BY JANE ANN :: TEXAS USA :: 7:52 AM

Hand Sanitizer

QUESTION:

My wife and I keep hand sanitizer in the car which we use time to time to clean our kids' hands.

My six year then told me yesterday that she is asked to use hand sanitizer, what she calls "magic soap", everyday at school to clean up after recess. Her friend uses it to clean her desk!

My question is whether this level of exposure over time poses any risk to my kids from the chemicals in hand sanitzer?

POSTED BY DAVE :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 7:09 AM

Vegetable Stearic Acid

QUESTION:

Would you please tell me if vegetable stearic acid is a synthetic chemical (possibly petro-chemical) or a natural safe substance.

I have been told conflicting opinions so far and would be very interested in whatever information you can find out on this ingredient that I have recently found in a natural soap bar.

I have also been told two conflicting opinions about how this ingredient is made. One says that it is always a highly synthetic oleo chemical coming from a vegtable source and the other says that the stearic acid they know of is cold- pressed, not highly processed from a vegetable source ( I believe they said it was from Palm). The second claimed that it was not a synthetic chemical and was in fact a safe and natural substance. Any information you could give me about this would be gratefully appreciated.

Thank you.

POSTED BY JAYNE HEMMING :: IOWA USA :: 5:56 AM

Food Safe Refinishing of salad bowl

QUESTION:

I have a very nice old salad bowl, made of one piece of wood. It may be teak, but I'm not sure. However it has developed this sticky coating on the outside, and a little also on the inside. I'm assuming it's whatever the wood was finished with originally, turned old and sticky. I am wondering how to safely remove this. It seems a shame to sand this nice old bowl. Any ideas?

POSTED BY SUZY :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 7:50 AM

Properly Disposing of Dangerous Fabric Protector

QUESTION:

My mother-in-law gave me an old bottle of Scotch Gard Fabric Protector to use on my son's new area rug. I have researched and found out that this is a very dangerous product that can be fatal and is very bad for the envoronment. I need to dispose of it but don't know the safe way to do that. Can you give me advice on what to do with this old, unsafe can?

POSTED BY AMYJO :: IN USA :: 7:48 AM

Silicone Ice Cube Trays

QUESTION:

I have been using silicone ice cube trays for aout two weeks and when the ice cube melts in the drink, there is white particals floating in the drink. Is that from the silicone material?

POSTED BY SJ :: FLORIDA USA :: 8:06 AM

Installing new hardwood

QUESTION:

Hello,

I plan on installing bamboo in my foyer which currently has linoleum. My question is, do I install on top of the linoleum or rip it out. From what I understand, the linoleum and glue have some offgassing, but it is 5 years old so maybe the glue has finished offgassing. Also, I hear it is very hard to get the glue completely removed. So if I tear out the linoleum but leave some glue down am I doing more harm than good. If you happen to know any of these answers I would greatly appreciate some help.

thanks,

POSTED BY DENNIS :: PA USA :: 2:23 PM

granite countertop sealer (a safe one)

QUESTION:

I made the mistake of thinking there would be a safe sealer for granite countertops and now I have to find one! Do you know what I can use because my understanding (now, after it's too late) is that granite has to be sealed yearly and I cannot find a safe sealer.

Please help!

Jan/NM

POSTED BY JC :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 11:52 AM

aerosols?

QUESTION:

Something I've wondered about and which I'm hoping you can shed some light on:

It's my understanding that aerosol spray cans were targetted several years ago as a key culprit in the ozone layer depletion. And yet, they are still very much in use. Am I incorrect in my understanding of their impact on the environment? Was the technology changed? Or was nothing done despite their environmental impact?

I avoid aerosol cans as much as possible (almost 100% of the time) but would like to know more about this.

POSTED BY R.M. :: VIRGINIA USA :: 2:17 PM

What can I do with newly finished shelves to prevent offgassing?

QUESTION:

I got some unfinished pine shelves and used Minwax finish from the hardware store to finish them. I didn't realize there are less toxic options... and for some reason I didn't think about off-gassing before I did it. My living room looks great, but I have been running a fan in there with the windows open for a week and I can still distinctly smell the odor of the finish. The living room connects to the kitchen and the hallway without doors, so closing it up and heating it may be difficult- possible if I hang a curtain over the hall entry I suppose. What are my options for removing this smell?

POSTED BY EVELYN K :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 4:03 PM

Are pre-finished hardwood floors OK?

QUESTION:

My wife has MCS and we are in the process of finding a "safe" house, both insisde and outside. We think we have found a house that fits most of our criteria, except for one area. The homeowner installed pre-finished hardwood floors in part of the home 6 months ago. We've heard that this should be OK since the finish is baked on. We were in the home for about 45 minutes and my wife did not detect anything. Her sense of smell is accute and she usually detects things immediately if it is going to bother her. What do you think? Opinions are welcome. Thank you.

POSTED BY JOHN :: MICHIGAN USA :: 12:03 PM

hard wood floor finish offgassing

QUESTION:

Dear Debra:

My husband and I had our hard wood floors refinished in February of this year. Harco Polyurethane 350 VOC was used. My husband pointed out some imperfections in the finish and the contractor came back and did something which increased the fumes (we found cans of Harco and paint thinner in the garbage).

It is now July and we can still smell chemicals. We moved into the bedroom where the flooring was redone at the beginning of July. Coincidentally, or maybe not, I have not been feeling well. My face is broken out. My nose and eyes are burning. My throat is burning. I've been dizzy, sick to my stomach, fatigued, having difficulty concentrating and generally feeling poorly.

Do you have any idea what may have happened and what can be done? I hope we haven't suffered any permanent ill effects.

Debra S.

POSTED BY DEBRA S. :: NEW YORK USA :: 3:40 AM

colored glass

QUESTION:

I want to buy some Anchor Hocking glass plates and bowls. I would like to buy either the blue or green glass dishes. Is colored glass as safe as clear glass? Thanks

POSTED BY TL :: COLORADO USA :: 5:16 PM

question about freezing plastics

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,
Thank you for all the work you do figuring all this out. I've seen a lot of things on plastics, but one thing I'm not sure of is; how safe is it to freeze plastic containers? I make broth and like to freeze it and have always done so in glass containers, but as you know, they can crack while unthawing. I tried freezing in some of my old washed sour cream containers that are plastic, but I ended up tossing them for fear of the plastic leaching. What about making homemade popsicles in those plastic containers, or even ice cubes? If #'s 1, 2, 4, & 5 are safe, are they safe to freeze in as well?
Thanks again for your help.
God Bless!
J.K.

POSTED BY J.K. :: MN USA :: 3:18 PM

HELP! Outgassing after removing 10 years old floor vinyl sheeting?

QUESTION:

I have lived in a 40+ years old house for 10 years. Vinyl sheeting in the entry, kitchen, bathroom and closet. Today for the very first time -- after I removed it in prep for new flooring, there was the unmistakable odor of outgassing. Uh oh. The windows are open (fortunately this is June in Alaska), the kitchen fan is sucking out the smell (which is less so now after several hours)and there is no outgassing smell on the second floor.

The vinyl I removed had not been glued down, but there is some kind of white stuff -- probably something to smooth out the surface before the vinyl was laid? -- under it along with untold other layers.

What is happening? And will the new flooring (vinyl planks laid directly on the floor, no smell, no glue, no underlayment goop) seal the source of the odor? - which, clearly, the old vinyl has been doing.

Thanks so much.
Janet Levin
Anchorage, Alaska

POSTED BY JL :: ALASKA USA :: 12:18 PM

old crocks: lead in glaze?

QUESTION:

A couple of years ago I bought two old crocks at a consignment shop, never thinking about the possibility of lead in the glazes. I don't know how old the pots are. One, with a light-brown glaze in good condition, just says "U.S.A. 9 in." on the bottom; the other, in an off-white glaze with at least one gouge through the glaze, has "Western Stoneware Co." on the bottom. Any opinions as to their safety for food prep/storage? Thanks.

POSTED BY RIMA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 5:05 PM

Baking soda

QUESTION:

Dear Debra, Are there any toxic factors or warnings of any kindwith baking soda? Thank you,

POSTED BY MARILYN :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 2:51 PM

Smell in Comforter- Vinyl casing it comes in?

QUESTION:

Hi,
I bought a Liz Claiborne comforter a few days ago, and it smells. I think it's from the vinyl bag it was encased in, but not sure. How many days should I allow for this to air out? Could it be the actual comforter that smells (dyes?)? I think it's from the vinyl bag it came in, but not sure. I have asthma, and i'm in love with this comforter, but can't really use it on the bed until it airs out. The past two days put on bed before I left for it to air out while i'm at work. Help! :)

POSTED BY GINA :: VIRGINIA USA :: 4:48 PM

Long-term effects of formaldehyde exposure

QUESTION:

I am an artists who uses acrylic mediums in large quantity. This December I spent a particularly intense period of time using these mediums. They contain small amounts of ammonia and formaldehyde. As it was the dead of winter, I did not have adequate ventilation. I immediately developed intense insomnia. The insomnia continued, even though my exposure stopped. It may be complicated by a growing anxiety about sleeping. I use cotton flannel sheets at home. Are there long term effects to this kind of exposure? If so, how can they be reversed? Do I need to see a doctor familiar with chemical exposure?

POSTED BY TZ :: ILLINOIS USA :: 5:22 PM

Windshield Wiper Fluid - Non-toxic

QUESTION:

Hello,

Recently there was an incident in our area of some people getting very ill, and one person dying, from drinking punch that was stored in containers that had windshield wiper fluid.

It got me to thinking of the toxicity of this stuff that we spray all the time into the environment.

Does anyone having any stats on this? It would be interesting.

Wondering if anyone knows of a product, commercial or home-made, that does the job. I am up in Ontario and it gets pretty cold here, way below zero. So it can't freeze. That might be the hard part.

Anyway, look forward to being part of this blog. There is a lot to learn.

Thanks and cheers,
Howard Herscovici

POSTED BY HOWARD HERSCOVICI :: ONTARIO CANADA :: 3:37 AM

asbestos ceiling

QUESTION:

Hi Debra, What can I do to protect myself from the fine dust coming from my popcorn ceiling?

POSTED BY S.H. :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 1:39 PM

Car repair and painting

QUESTION:

Hi Debra:

My driver's side door was dented in a parking lot and needs to be fixed. I have been putting it off because I have MCS, Fibro and CFS. Fumes from the materials used including the paint would be toxic for me. I have no idea how long it would take to off-gas. Are there any companies that do car repairs with less toxic materials? Or do you have any suggestions besides leaving the car alone? I can open and close the door but it does not open easily or fully.

Thanks for your help.

Lyn G., Culver City, CA.

POSTED BY LYN G. :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 12:22 PM

How do I find the major toxins in my home?

QUESTION:

I bought my conventional home 3+ years ago and I am slowly greening it as I can afford to replace things. My dad recently mentioned that when he house sits for me or visits, after a few days he notices that he starts to not feel well. He could not discribe any symptoms other than not feeling well. My dad normally has robust health, so this really got my attention. For me, I feel alright but certainly not great.

How do I begin to find the major sources of toxins in my home? My home is about 15 years old and uses propane for the furnace and hot water. I plan to get rid of the propane within the next year or so. Propane is a great concern for me, though I can not tell you why other than something about it doesn't feel right. I keep my furnace maintained and I have a propane detector and a CO2 detector. I use natural cleaning products, eat orgainc whenever possible.

So where do I start?\r
Thank you,

Jan

POSTED BY JP :: JANPERKINS.COM :: WWW.JANPERKINS.COM :: UTAH USA :: 5:27 PM

Aluminum safety

QUESTION:

Hi,

I have noticed that after baking cookies on my aluminum cookie sheet and dry them off after washing them - there is always a silver residue on the towel - Has the coating come off or is there any danger in this?

Thank you.

POSTED BY SUSAN :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 6:50 AM

flooring questions

QUESTION:

We have a wall-to-wall carpet in our house that was installed about 10 years ago (we've been living here 3). We want to replace it, and have realized how bad wall-to-wall carpeting is. The other half of the floor is pergo. I don't want to replace the pergo, and therefore it seems it makes most sense to replace the carpeting with more pergo and use non-toxic area rugs. My question is, is the pergo really bad? It has to be better than the wall-to-wall carpet, right? I just think it would look weird if I put a different wood-flooring on half of the house.

The other thing is, I am planning to pregnant soon, so I wanted to do this first. Should I wait a while (how long) after having the new pergo installed to have minimal toxins?

Thanks so much for your help.

POSTED BY CHRISTINE :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 3:51 PM

non or low toxic shower pan liner adhesive?

QUESTION:

hello. I am trying to install my new shower. My wife is 3 months pregnant and is deeply concerned with the life threatening warnings on the shower pan liner adhesives. Keeping her away for the day and airing the house out is not good enough so I am now looking for a low or non toxic shower pan liner adhesive. Does any such thing exist? Thanks!

Ian

POSTED BY IAN KENNEDY :: CA USA :: 2:16 PM

Debra Saved My Daughter

QUESTION:

Dear Parents.

If your child is on any medications for bi-polar, scizophrenia, adhd or whatever, please READ MY STORY!!!!

I will try to start at the beginning and be as clear as possible. It all started at 2 years of age. She began to hate the world, wouldn\'t smile, screamed at every piece of clothing I put on her. Yelled at people who looked into her eyes, threw the new puppy down the stairs and broke its leg, because I would not pay attention the her.

Teachers, parents and relatives said she seemed depressed, some said autistic, some said mentally disturbed. In 1st grade, I brought her to a play with her friend. She walked into the theater so calm and sweet. She then drank a flavored water, (which contains sodium benzoate) and started pulling my hair, and hitting everyone in sight. We were asked to leave. She began grabbing peoples privates etc.... This is when I put on my combat boots, and went to work, to SAVE MY DAUGHTER.

I went to the pediatrician, allergist, naperpath, ocupational therapist, psychologist, eye doctors, (because she would see blurry, when she was in these moods) psychiatrist, neurologist (had MRI's, EEG'S) nutritionists (she drank every concoction under the sun: vitamins, fish oil, you name it) She was a trooper. We went to some unconventional doctors that tested her by hooking her up to a computer, while she held some kind of metal rod. They claimed they could find what she was lacking in her systems by the vibration of her body, or something like this. All these people were great, and she got a bit better once in a while, but she always went back to this little monster, and things were getting worse.

She began to hide her food, because she thought she was fat, and began having distorted thinking. We began feeding her all or organic food, and she improved a lot, but during the summer got really bad again. Someone suggested its the chlorine in the pool, so we kept her away from the pool. Improved big time. I now knew it was preservatives and chemicals reaction.

I was then referred to Debra Lynn Dadd. What a godsend! I explained to her what was going on, and she wouldn\'t even let me finish. She said "I know your story, get a pen, and I will tell you what to do." I am doing what she told me to do, and my daughter is climbing out of this toxic waste a little each day!!!

After only two weeks of making the changes Debra gave me, my daughter is a ray of sunshine, and not one bit mean. Many of the doctors wanted us to medicate, but I refused until I was absolutley possitive there wasn't anything else causing this. It has been a long hard road, but worth every wrinkle I have from the stress it caused in my life. She was worth it!!! I will help anyone, anytime of day. Denise

PS My daughter (age 7) can now read, sit still, play games, and laugh. She could never do any of this. Also, she doesn't write backwards anymore.

POSTED BY DENISE ARIAS :: ILLINOIS USA :: 3:44 PM

Petroleum Distillates and Petrochemicals

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

What is the difference between petroleum distillates, and petrochemicals? Is one more toxic than the other?

Lynn, Michigan

POSTED BY LYNN :: MICHIGAN USA :: 4:22 PM

PVC boots sneakers & clothing offgassing

QUESTION:

Hello all,

I am looking for info about the safety of being exposed to large quantities of pvc boots and sneaker. I live above a store which is currently storing large amounts (cases & cases) of large rubber rainboots in my basement. The smell when you enter my hallway (there is a door to the basement there) is terrible - a strong industrial cleaning smell. At other times they have sneakers & the smell is differnt (glue? rubber?) but also bad - there are also tons of imported garments in and out of poly bags.

I am wondering what are health risks for my children & I and what best steps would be. I think they would install a ventilation system if I had any hard information.

Any help would be appreciated!

POSTED BY LISA :: NEW YORK USA :: 6:11 AM

Sewer gas exposure

QUESTION:

Does anyone know of a doctor to see after over 3 years of being exposed to sewer gas? The sewer lines for the rough in plumbing in the basement were not capped. Susan Bonnet 307-672-2576 or sbonnet@vcn.com

POSTED BY SUSAN BONNET :: WYOMING USA :: 8:07 AM
CATEGORY — TOXICS :: 2 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Formaldehyde

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,

Thanks for all the wonderful information! I keep reading a lot on plastics and formaldehyde being unhealthy. Can you give me some sources?

My husband works in a manufacturing plant. They make plastic parts for various things (cars, mostly). He comes home smelling very "chemically" :-(

When I asked what the smell was, he said "probably formaldehyde". What does this mean for our family? He assures me that it is not going to harm us, but he really hasn't done any research other than the fact that his employer does not take any precautions (he has worked at other plants where they were required to change clothes/shower before going home because of harmful chemicals in the plant).

Can you tell me if this can affect us? And if so, can you also point me to some other sources for further information?

Thanks in Advance!

Melissa

POSTED BY MELISSA :: GEORGIA USA :: 10:22 AM

Hair Dryers and Lead on Power Cords

QUESTION:

I just read one of your Low-EMF Hair Dryers while researching hair dryers.

I am so confused! I just purchased a "quiet" hair dryer thinking it would be healthier for me (or at least, for my ears) and while reading the manual, there is a big warning due to the california prop 65 about the chord containing cancer causing lead and to wash your hands after use. WHAT????

After reading your letter, now I am more stressed out. I know SO LITTLE!!!!

If I were to stay on the topic of hair-dryers, I suppose I would want to get one that is:

• quiet
• low EMF's, both AC magnetic and AC electric
• If a unit is manufactured for low AC Electric Fields, all the wiring would have to be a special type called "shielded cable". This is not just the plug, but the entire cable inside and outside the unit, and sometimes even parts of the motor.
• And of course, one that does not seem to have enough "cancer causing lead" to actually have to put a warning in the manual.

Should I even bother buying a new blow dryer?? Ugh-- sometimes I feel ignorance is bliss.

I have a computer, air conditioner, television, de-humidifier, car.... i'm wondering if i should even be getting this concerned about a blow dryer.

HELP! THANKS.

POSTED BY Y. S. :: NEW YORK USA :: 2:28 PM

Lead on Power Cords

QUESTION:

I just purchased a new laptop computer, made by Toshiba. In the "Resource Guide", on both the first page and on page 29, it says

"WARNING: Handling the power cord on this product will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING".

I don't want to consider returning it because it has good quality speakers through which I, hard-of-hearing, may be able to hear. I am housebound so didn't personally go to stores to look at computers before ordering this. Also, I already have high levels of arsenic and cadmium according to my hair analysis, so I don't need to add lead.

Even if I could find a different cord or chose a different computer, how would I know whether or not the new cord cord contains lead? Is the lead mixed somehow combined with something in such a way that it is not readily dispersed? Why would there be lead in a plastic cord?

I suppose I could wrap it with duct tape. I can wear gloves when I handle it, but do I want this cord sitting on my desk 2 !/2 feet from my nose?

Toshiba's corporate office seems to be in California, so maybe notifying customers was simply a legal requirement.

What can I do to protect myself from this exposure to lead?

M. M.
La Mesa CA

P.S. I just went to Consumer Reports.org to see if I could find a way to complain about the power cord on my Toshiba, as they had recommended the brand. I found an article on Christmas tree lights and one on garden hoses that indicated that lead is used to stabilize polyvinyl chloride which is used in manufacturing electrical cords. And while occasional use would not harm most adults, you should wash your hands after handling. Another reason to avoid using PVC.

This doesn't tell me whether there is a potential for airborne lead dust, but it looks pretty unlikely that I would find something better.

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