Redwood Deck
Question from sasha123 We have to build a new deck. I know that cedar can be problematic for many with MCS, but what about redwood? Debra’s Answer Readers, what is your experience with woods for building decks? Here in Florida wood rots really easily so wood...Polyurethane coating in backpacks
Question from chrisw I purchased a backpack made from nylon which has a polyurethane coating on the inside. It has a sticky feel to it and quite a strong odor. I have confirmed with the bag manufacturer that the coating is indeed PU and is used for waterproofing...Do all organic mattresses smell?
Question from jkpone I’ve been extremely sensitive to chemicals for the last 6 1/2 years and the time has come to purchase a new mattress (ugh!). I’m definitely going to buy organic but I’ve heard many organic mattresses smell very strongly and make...Organic fertilizer
Question from M.R. What is your opinion on the organic fertilizers, organic potting soil and garden soil on the market today. Are these really any less toxic than the conventional products? I do not understand how fertilizer chemicals can be organic. Is this a misuse...Antifreeze Free Ink Pens
Question from SVE Hi Debra, Recently I figured out I was reacting to the ink in Pilot and Uniball pens with my usual antifreeze (ethylene glycol) symptoms. I eliminated all our pens from inside the house and I’m now using pencils. My biggest problem at present is not...Tile Glue Smell in New Shower
Question from Scent Free Girl My husband installed a tile shower in my bathroom in mid September of 2011, and I can still smell the tile adhesive he used. He’s a contractor and he used premixed tile adhesive. He didn’t realize it would continue to put off...Superwash wool
Question from cymering Hi Debra! I have a questions about Superwash wool. The information I have says that it is a natural fiber, but that it has been treated to make it machine washable. Are those treatment toxic? I have some yarn in my posession. So the second...Furniture Coasters
Question from sasha123 Hi Debra, Do you have any recommendation for furniture coasters on a wood floor? Home Depot has felt coasters, brand Feltgard, made from recycled materials, but I haven’t been able to find the content. Any feedback on those or something...CamelBak water bottles
Question from Mrs. Chris CamelBak water bottles are tritan plastic and claim to be BPA free. They have a bite-valve and straw that runs into the bottle so it is used without tipping. Are these truly a safe bottle? Debra’s Answer A study I wrote about at...
