I Need a New Couch and a New Chair
Question from Sheri I have MCS also..I need a new couch and new chair. What advice can you give me on brands or what to look for to protect myself and my pets from the outgassing. Glue really bothers me and formyaldehyde. Thanks, Sheri Debra’s Answer Readers,...Will California TB117-2013 Really Reduce Fire Retardants?
TB117-2013 is a new California flammability standard for upholstered furniture (which includes, couches, padded chairs, but NOT mattresses). Because it is not feasible for manufacturers to make different versions of products for different states, the California...French Press for Making Tea
Question from Hanna Hi Debra, Thanks for a great site!!! I’m looking for an all glass/stainless steel french press for brewing loose leaf tea. OR something better for this purpose. Just no plastic or leaching materials. French presses are so easy for people to...Can I Remove Scent From Breast Pump?
Question from Catherine Hello, I let my niece borrow my breastpump and upon getting it back noticed a strong floral perfume scent. I called her and she laughed…I guesss it was stored in her front room where she has candles and oils present all the time. I had to...Danger from Combining Cleaners?
Question from J in Va I have done away with harmful cleaning products in our home. My concern is any accidental contact with bleach or ammonia residue from cleansers that may have been used previously. For example, I am becoming a big fan of vinegar. Is it safe to...Laminate Placemats
Question from E.K I came across a placemat that is made of durable sheets that have been laminated. I did a search on laminates but I couldn’t find anything pertaining to this type of lamination or if it has any relation to laminate flooring. I was hoping you...HVAC Air Ducts
Question from Linda I have central heating with duct work that is not sealed tight so it is not energy efficient and it has asbestos. I need to decide between leaving the existing duct work with the asbestos or removing and replacing it. The company I am working with...Phenol-Formaldehyde “Bakelite”
Question from kristen Are you familiar with Phenol-formaldehyde used in cookware products? Specifically a metal tea kettle, where the lid and handle are made of this material. I know formaldehyde is toxic, but in this application do you think it is releasing anything...Nontoxic Finish for Unfinished Wood Bed Frames That Protects Against Termites
Question from Cindy I bought two unfinished pine beds at IKEA for my granddaughters that I would like to paint or varnish, but I’m not sure how to go about doing this in the most nontoxic way. I’m not only concerned with toxins, but also termites getting...
