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November 09, 2009

Mothballs

QUESTION:

How do you eliminate the smell of mothball?

POSTED BY CC :: FLORIDA USA :: 12:35 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

Readers? What is your experience with this?

Debra :-)

2 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Finding a Safe Heater

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

I read your blog about the portable 6” ceramic space heater. It was helpful, but did not find a match when I looked around my local stores. I found this style of heater, but with baked on enamel coating and/or plastic housing. When you say painted does that include baked on enamel?

I’ve had trouble with the oil filled portable radiator type heaters; I thought it was the oil I smelled. But it makes more sense that it was the paint. This had baked on enamel.

I had been using a gas heater in my apartment. I was getting headaches and dizziness that might have been related. PG&E came out several times and said there were no leaks. But a couple of months ago a technician did a more thorough search and found a significant leak. He shut it down as a major hazard, and the landlord replaced the heater.

When I call PG&E they have not been helpful re: hooking me up with the thorough technician who helped me. Unsatisfying customer service.

This new gas heater is painted, not baked on. I have not used it. I suspected there was still a problem with the gas line and I continued to have symptoms, though less often. A couple of weeks ago PG&E was drilling holes near my house and told me they were repairing a gas leak. I don’t know if there is any connection. I’m considering trying the gas heater. But again the new paint is probably toxic.

Now I’m starting to have a problem with mold because I’m not heating the apartment. And I’m cold.

I have been running the burners on my gas stove for warmth in the kitchen. Is this toxic? I’m considering trying some light bulbs that generate heat. Is this toxic? I have special needs due to Multiple Chemical Sensitivities. I appreciate any support you can offer.

Thank you Debra,
Frosty in Berkeley, CA

POSTED BY FROSTY :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 12:31 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

First, I wouldn't use the gas heater.

There is a discussion of space heaters and brands listed at Q&A: Is plastic heater OK?.

A baked-on enamel or "powder coated" finish shouldn't outgas, because it has already been heated.

This blog is a good place to get info from others with MCS.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — GENERAL HOUSEHOLD :: 3 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Formaldehyde and polyester

QUESTION:

Hi I recently found out I am allergic to formaldehyde. I am trying my best to eliminate it from my environment, which is proving quite challenging!

I am aware that it is highly present in permanent press fabrics and poly/cotton blends, but I have read varying things about the presence of formaldehyde in 100% polyester.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks :)

POSTED BY ABBY SERNOFF :: PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STATES :: 12:21 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I don't know about formaldehyde used on polyester. It's not the kind of thing I would research because I have no interest in polyester fabric, entirely made from petrochemicals.

If you wanted to find out, I suggest researching the manufacture of polyester fabric, online or in the library. There are books and journals about textile manufacture--even an encyclopedia may be helpful.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — TEXTILES :: 0 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Metal leaching in electric space heaters?

QUESTION:

Debra,

Recently, I learned that spilled mercury from a thermometer can actually vaporize into the air and be quite dangerous if it lands on a heater. If this is true,then how do we know we are not breathing in metal vapors from electric space heaters that usually have metal heating elements in them? I am thinking especially of the ALUMINUM inner casing that I have on the inside of my new ribbon/coil heater.

Many heaters, including the radient ones seem to have this aluminum in them. I am definately having symptoms that are the same as the symptoms I had when I used to cook in aluminum cooking pots. What I want to know is which heaters have stainless steel inner casings?

I am thinking of trying a ceramic heater. But don't know what the metals are in it. And if it is better to use metal than plastic, then which metal will not leach out into the air? I see no ceramic heaters today that have no plastic casings.

Also, which ceramic heaters blow less air out by a fan? Though the best heater I had was a fan blower heater, it created alot of lint around my room and in the air ( which is dangerous if you have radon gas present in the house. )

Any advice?

POSTED BY VICKI M. :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 12:14 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

Yes, mercury from a thermometer can vaporize into the air.

I don't know anything about metal vapors being given off from electric space heaters and couldn't find any information on what happens when metals are heated. Perhaps some of my readers who are more educated about chemistry than I will jump in and answer that one. Most people, even with MCS do not have problems with metal heaters.

It's entirely possible that you are having symptoms from breathing air that has been heated around metal.

I don't know the details of which heaters have what metals in them or which ceramic heaters blow less air out by a fan.

There are ceramic heaters with metal casings listed at Q&A: Is plastic heater OK?
.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — AIR :: 1 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

November 06, 2009

Scanpan cookware

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,
Have you ever heard of Scanpan cookware? Its made in Denmark, and their products are made of a creamic-titanium compound. Their website is www.scanpan.com. I was considering purchasing one of their large pots which is on sale at a local store, but I wanted to get your opinion on the safety of this product.
Thanks so much for all you do. I love your website!
Laurel

POSTED BY LAUREL M. :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 6:28 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

OK. Here's the deal on Scanpan.

First, there seem to be several types of cookware made by this company. The one I think you are asking about--the one with the ceramic-titanium finish--is their Classic New Tek.

At www.scanpancookware.com/pages/scanpan-background-pv-c0-6.html it says the following:

"Both ceramic and titanium are incredibly hard materials. After having pressure-cast the raw pan body, the ceramic-titanium compound is super-heated to 36,000º F (thirty six thousand degrees!) at which point it liquefies. The ceramic-titanium enters a "plasma state". That liquid plasma is then fired into the pan surface at twice the speed of sound. Lots of heat and impact. The ceramic-titanium literally anchors itself in the aluminum surface and becomes one with the pan." So far, so good.

"When looking at SCANPAN CLASSIC NEW TEK under a microscope, we see something like a lunar landscape. A myriad of mini-craters, all similar in size and shape. These craters were created when firing the ceramic-titanium compound into the cooking surface, and are then filled with our specially formulated NEW TEK non-stick compound. The compound is in the craters, not on them. The ceramic-titanium protects it from being scraped away. Even if you use a metal spatula." This is the part I am concerned about. They say their nonstick coating is PFOA-free, but that's all we know about it.

The selling feature of the Scanpan is that you can't scrape away the nonstick finish, but the nonstick finish is still there.

I'm skeptical about this. Not enough information for me to recommend it. But I also don't have enough information to say it's not safe.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — GENERAL HOUSEHOLD :: 1 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Replacing Fiberglass insulation in an unfinished attic

QUESTION:

Dear Debra,

I have read your recommended safe solutions for insulation in "Home Safe Home". I have also searched the Q&A section.

However, it is not clear to me if the advice givens covers unfinished attics.

We currently have blown fiberglass insulation on the floor of the attic. It has been there at least 20 years.

On the wall adjoining of the attic that adjoins a room, there is fiberglass batting with a layer of plastic over it. There is no drywall covering the fiberglass on that wall.

There is no insulation on the sloping roof portion of the attic.

How can we safely and cost effectively remediate?

What is a suitable replacement insulation for an unfinished (open cavity) attic?

While we do not go into the attic on a daily basis, we may go in there once a month or so, and it also adjoins a room that will be used daily by a MCS person.

POSTED BY GIGI :: VIRGINIA USA :: 6:21 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I'm not an expert on installing insulation, but I know some of my readers are.

So, readers, what are your recommendations?

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — BUILDING :: 1 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

More on Metals Leaching

I ran across a very interesting website called Corrosion Doctors at www.corrosion-doctors.org/.

"The mission of this popular Web site is to improve the general awareness of what corrosion is all about, from complicated processes that are at play even behind the simplest corrosion reactions to the impact corrosion may have on systems (pipelines, cars, boats, ...) and human health (implants, allergies, toxic metals ...).

"Many are surprised when they learn that there are many ways to prevent and control this natural force. The Corrosion Doctors' visitors are also surprised when they learn that these corrosion processes may also be happening inside their own body!! However, the topics covered in the many pages of the Web site go much beyond metallic corrosion because Corrosion Doctors also discuss the degradation of our lives due to toxic elements and the basic degradation of the planet because of pollution, global warming, and global dimming! With more than 1,600 pages and thousands of external links, the Corrosion Doctors site is a good example of what lean information systems are about."

This is an amazing research site. One page has a graphic of the Periodic Table of Elements that shows which are toxic and which are not. The toxic ones are: Arsenic, Beryllium, Cadmium, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Fluorine, Lead, Mercury, Nickel, Thallium.

I've bookmarked this site so I can study it more. It's the best place I've found to go for information on metals toxicity.

Debra :-)

0 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Shower Curtain

QUESTION:

My old nylon, I think, shower curtain has a trace of mildew on it. It is at least ten years old. It is time to replace it.

I live in an apartment and do not have a clothes line to air it on. I don't want to have to launder it frequently. I do have a bathroom window and I do mop up the shower after every use.

Are there natural fiber shower curtains that would remain mold-free for an extended period of time?

Are there nylon shower curtains available without Teflon coating? Do you or your readers know where to find one?

If a polyester shower curtain doesn't say it is Teflon coated, can I presume it isn't?

As always, thank you for this wonderful website!

POSTED BY MARY :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 5:13 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I don't know of a natural fiber shower curtain that wouldn't have mildew problems.

And having not shopped for nylon or polyester curtains, don't know about the finishes you mention.

Readers, any suggestions? In this case, seems like a nylon curtain would be the better choice, as nylon is one of the least toxic plastics.

Ordinarily I would recommend putting in glass doors, but this reader can't do that in a rented apartment.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — GENERAL HOUSEHOLD :: 3 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

November 05, 2009

Wallpaper removal question

QUESTION:

I will be removing wallpaper. I have been told that if there is ANY adhesive left, a water-based primer nor paint will not take to it very well. I am told cracking or some such mess will occur. If I remove the wallpaper and there is a a little adhesive left that I can't see, how long after the priming will I know that there is still adhesive left? What about after painting?

POSTED BY GIGI :: VIRGINIA USA :: 12:16 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

Readers?

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — INTERIOR DECORATING :: 2 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

How Do I Prep an Oil-based painted wall for Water Based Primer & Paint?

QUESTION:

I would like to use AFM Safecoat Primer and Paint for my walls. However, I believe that the paint that is currently on the walls is an oil-based paint and I have been told by someone at AFM to use an oil-based primer, THEN use a water based paint. I am leary of the oil-based primer. Has anyone else had this problem, and if so, what was your solution? I would really like to use a water-based primer, if possible.

POSTED BY GIGI :: VIRGINIA USA :: 12:15 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

My husband is stumped on this one. Readers, any experience with this?

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — INTERIOR DECORATING :: 1 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Off-gassing from new TV

QUESTION:

I purchased a new flat-screen tv for my bedroom, but the smell is bothering me. I am deciding between returning it altogether or putting it in the garage to outgas (and maybe put it in my son's room later). I know people have different sensitivities, but how about how long would it take for the tv to stop giving off an odor?

Thanks,

POSTED BY BEBE :: ILLINOIS USA :: 12:12 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

Depends on the tv. The more you run it, the faster it will outgas, as the heat speeds outgassing.

Debra :-)

3 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Dryer

QUESTION:

I am in the process of replacing my old gas dryer with an electric. After much searching on line and in stores, I have not found a safe, reliable dryer with a stainless steel drum that I had hoped.

Consumer Reports recommends models with terrible repair histories so I am not trusting them. I have decided to go with a Whirlpool because all the repair guys recommend it, but Whirlpool does not make stainless steel drums. Does anyone know any reason why the enamel or powdercoated could be a problem, providing they pass the initial sniff test? Could they off-gas when heated?

Alternatively, has anyone purchased an electric dryer that they recommend? I don't needs bells and whistles but am willing to pay for a reliable and safe model. I almost bought an LG with a stainless steel drum, then discovered they have terrible repair and customer relations records. I live in a rural area where repairs can be problematic and, of course I don't want the headache of repairs.

Any other cautions or concerns about a new dryer would be appreciated as well as happy ending stories.
thank you
Lucy with wet clothes

POSTED BY LUCY HEMMENDINGER :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 12:09 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I have no objection to dryers with enamel or powdercoated drums from a health viewpoint. They do not outgas.

Readers, what are your recommendations?

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — GENERAL HOUSEHOLD :: 5 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Mortar and Pestles

QUESTION:

Hi, Im looking for a safe, lead free mortar and pestle. American Masala of Wade Ceramics, England makes one that is porcelain. I can not find anywhere if the product is lead free or not and wonder if you may know. Thank you for your help

POSTED BY LISA :: MICHIGAN USA :: 12:05 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I don't know about this particular brand, but I have seen mortars and pestals made from stone, which would be lead-free because there is no glaze.

For info on specific products, contact the manufacturer.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — FOOD :: 1 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Sofa Detox

QUESTION:

Hi, Debra I have a sofa question.

Can a conventional sofa be made safer by stripping it down and washing it?

Lets say you remove all covers and soak them, maybe in some vinegar, do a double rinse cycle, remove the back cushions and literally wash the whole cushion as long as it fits in washing machine. Take the seat cushions, soak and wash covers and then put seat cushions in drier to bake off the chemicals. Would this help remove some of the chemicals and make it safer?

The rest of the sofa where the fabric can not be removed, could it be wiped down with an organic vinegar and water solution? Would this help? I absolutely know that an organic or natural sofa would be the best, but for us who can not afford this, would what I described help?

We have one organic futon already, but it really hurts our bums. My husband hates it. My kids complain. I have be out numbered, and we purchased new sofas. One stipulation was that all the covers be removable and back cushion could fit in my washing machine. I know that most people would think i was cooky for stripping a new couch and washing the cushions but i am going to. So please tell me what else i can do. One more thing can i put the seat cushions in drier to bake off the chemicals? Thank you.

POSTED BY LINDA :: PENNSYLVANIA USA :: 12:02 PM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

This doesn't sound like something I would recommend. It would be better to purchase a used sofa, I think, one that doesn't have cigarette smoke or perfume, than to attempt to remove or outgass chemicals from a new synthetic sofa. It might be an expensive experiment if it fails, or shrinks the fabric so it doesn't look the same.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — INTERIOR DECORATING :: 2 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Reliable articles about Fabric Softeners

QUESTION:

I am planning to write an article for our neighborhood newsletter to inform and educate people about fabric softeners and dryer sheets. I have MCS and when I go outside I can smell the fabric softener sometimes, so am hoping that this will be a way that will make people think about their use of these products.

I want to provide reliable and believable information about these as well as alternatives to use. I use white vinegar. So I would also like to know of safe alternatives to fabric softeners and dryer sheets in addition to vinegar.

Perhaps there is already a sample article/ letter that I could use.

I think that I might even make a door hanger for close neighbors.

Thank you for any information, articles, or help you can give me to acurately compose this for our newsletter.

POSTED BY DEBBIE :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 11:58 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

What a wonderful idea! When you finish it, please post it here for others to use as well.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — CLEANING :: 3 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Avanage Citrus Cleaning Solution

QUESTION:

I was recently given a bottle of Avanage Citrus Cleaning solution, with recommendation that it is the best on the market. The bottle advertises that it is non-toxic, biodegradable, and eco friendly. What concerns me, is that the ingredients are not listed.

I went to the company's website. They will not provide the list of ingredients.

Does any one know about this product?

POSTED BY MARY NAGELMANN :: MARY NAGELMANN :: :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 11:57 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I always look at the ingredients or MSDS to confirm the claims being made.

Debra :-)

CATEGORY — CLEANING :: 0 COMMENTS :: POST YOUR COMMENT

Previous Entries | Next Entries

November 09, 2009

Mothballs

Finding a Safe Heater

Formaldehyde and polyester

Metal leaching in electric space heaters?

November 06, 2009

Scanpan cookware

Replacing Fiberglass insulation in an unfinished attic

More on Metals Leaching

Shower Curtain

November 05, 2009

Wallpaper removal question

How Do I Prep an Oil-based painted wall for Water Based Primer & Paint?

Off-gassing from new TV

Dryer

Mortar and Pestles

Sofa Detox

Reliable articles about Fabric Softeners

Avanage Citrus Cleaning Solution

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