Question from Marie

I think we just figured out that my teenager with MCS is very sensitive to the chlorine in our municipal water (used for washing clothes, of course). We are at a temporary location. When we find a place to move to, I planned on getting a whole house filter system which I have not researched yet. (We have been just using Brita for drinking and my son says I have to get something better NOW. I do have a chlorine filter on the shower.) Is there something we can do with the wash water for now?? Please offer any suggestions (Help!!). Thanks!!

Debra’s Answer

If it’s chlorine and not chloramine, you can get any carbon “undersink” filter and install it wherever you can in the pipe that leads to the washing machine. You can buy these filters at any home improvement store.

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Photo by Mel Poole on Unsplash

One of the best things about the holidays is gathering together with family and friends for special meals and gift-giving.  Unfortunately, all of that cooking and decorating can add to indoor air pollution and toxic exposures.  Here are some easy tips to keep your gathering safe and healthy.

Avoid Candles and Scented Décor

Candles made of paraffin wax can emit benzene, toluene and other dangerous chemicals.  They also emit particulate matter that can get deep into your lungs.  Fragrance from scented candles and scented décor usually contain phthalates which are released into the air and can be inhaled or absorbed by the skin.

Ventilate While Cooking

Cooking is a major source of poor indoor air quality.  Proper ventilation is critical, particularly if you are cooking with gas.  If you don’t have a range hood that vents to the outside, open your windows while cooking.  If your range hood doesn’t extend over your front burners, make sure to cook on your back burners.  Also, clean up any food particles on the burners because as they burn, they can release toxic by-products into the air.

Skip the Fire

Wood smoke can emit particulate matter as well as harmful chemicals including formaldehyde, and benzene. Studies show that up to 70% of the smoke released from the chimney re-enters your home.  If you just can’t do without a fire, engineered logs, such as Duraflame, have been shown in third-party studies to burn cleaner than natural wood.

Skip the Gift Wrap

Some papers can be treated with inks, dyes and other chemicals.  Additionally, some foil and colored gift wraps can contain lead.  If you really want to wrap your gifts, IKEA has strict limits for lead and offers several unbleached wrapping paper styles. You could also try reusable fabric gift bags, which are better for the environment.

Choose Untreated Tablecloths

Wrinkle-free tablecloths can release formaldehyde and water-repellent cloths can contain perfluorinated chemicals, like Teflon.  Choose an untreated, natural material like cotton or linen.

Ask Guests to Leave Their Shoes at the Door

Shoes can track in toxins from the outdoors including coal-tar from driveway sealers, pesticides, and bacteria.  Keep a basket of slippers or socks at the door for guests to use.

Use Lead-Free Holiday Plates and Serving Pieces

Look for lead-free labels on holiday plates and serving pieces and don’t eat off of products labelled “Not for food use” or “For decorative use only”.

Be safe and enjoy the holidays!

Question from Mimi

Lisa’s Answer

Here is a source.  It is not GOTS certified but they claim not to use any chemical additives to the natural latex.  You might also call mattress manufacturers who use GOTS certified latex foam and ask if they will sell you custom cut foam.

Question from Petra

Lisa’s Answer

I can point you to products that are free of harmful chemicals but I can’t say what anyone will or will not react to because everyone is different.

Here is a post I wrote on the least toxic computers.  You can read through the comments and see what others have said about their reactions.

You can look at Debra’s List for non-toxic shoes.  Again, I can’t tell you what you will or will not react too.

You can try White Lotus for fills to be used for a futon.  They sell buckwheat, kapok, wool, natural latex, and cotton.  I am not familiar with hemp being used as a fill.

Question from Judy

Lisa’s Answer

You could use a metal boot tray like this.  Hook and Loom has a good selection of 100% wool rugs with no backing or dyes.  They also offer natural latex grippers to use under the rug.  Wool is naturally water resistant but not water proof so it will get wet.  Hook and Loom also has natural cotton rugs but those won’t handle dampness from shoes as well as the wool.

Question from Beth

Lisa’s Answer

I use one by All Clad.  It is uncoated stainless steel.  It is expensive but great quality.  You can read this post I wrote recently on what to use to replace silicone bakeware and it lists some additional choices.

Question from Jane

We just had regular new carpet installed in our Master bedroom 2 weeks ago and the Smell is terrible!!!  It’s still giving us headaches and congestion even with running our air purifier And whole house fans!  Is there anything else we can do to get rid of it?

Lisa’s Answer

Unfortunately, carpet can be a significant source of indoor air pollution.  Ventilation will help with some of the off-gassing but not all.  Unless your air purifier is specifically designed to remove VOCs and other gases (most are not), it will not help.  You can read more here about air purifiers that remove both VOCS and particles.

If your carpet is synthetic, AFM Safecoat makes a carpet-sealing system designed to seal in the chemicals but it does not work on natural fiber rugs.

Question from Mir

I was looking at a simple sweatshirt that says it has ‘Moisture-wicking technology’.  Does this always refer to a chemical treatment of some kind?

Lisa’s Answer

There is no specific standard for the term “moisture wicking” so it could vary.  Wool can be considering a natural moisture-wicking material.  Synthetic fibers such as polyester do not retain moisture like natural fibers do so they push excess moisture through the weave and away from your body. Even without a chemical treatment they could be considered “moisture-wicking”.   Some fabrics do have a chemical treatment on the fabric to improve the performance.

Question from Alex

Lisa’s Answer

I agree that the information provided is not sufficient to determine just how safe these products are.  They have a list of 9 ingredients that they avoid but that leaves many other potentially harmful ingredients.  They have over 400 products so I can’t go through all of them to give a more specific answers but I can say that just avoiding those 9 ingredients is not enough for me to say that all of the their products are safe.  I also agree that listing fragrance on the label is enough to cause me concern.

Question from Becca

Lisa’s Answer

I submitted a question to Lifetime Brands which licenses the Kitchenaid brand name to product this.  I will update this when I hear back.  I don’t know what it is coated with.  I assume it is some kind of epoxy.  An uncoated stainless steel would be better, but overall this is a small exposure.

Question from Melanie

Lisa’s Answer

Mold can grow in air ducts as it can feed on dust.  But it sounds like you may have a problem instead of or in addition to the duct work.  If you have water dripping into your closet that is a likely source.  I’m not sure I fully understand your question but if you are asking if running an infrared heater will kill the mold, it will not.  You need to find the source and eliminate the source of moisture.  Also, dry air will not increase mold, moist air will.  I looked at the candles.  They use a botanical blend that they do not disclose and provide no scientific evidence to support their claims.  I would not reply on this to eliminate mold spores.  You really need to find the source of the mold and eliminate the moisture that it needs to grow.

Question from LA

Our college daughter who lives with us bought a used car, and realized afterward (when it heated up and especially when the seats are heated) that it has been treated with a fragrance. It does not seem to come out of the heating and cooling system, however, the surfaces smell like this fragrance when heated. Especially the leather seats. Then the fragrance sticks to the clothing wherever the clothing is in contact with the seats. Is there a way to get this fragrance out of the leather seats?  Our daughter is not wanting to cover up her nice leather seats, so we’re hoping to find a way to remove the fragrance. The fragrance doesn’t bother her as much as it bothers me,  as I am chemically sensitive and she is not. The fragrance sticks to her clothes, and then to the furniture in the house. Any suggestions? Thank you!!!!

Lisa’s Answer

If you can tolerate vinegar, you can wipe the leather with a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water.  Test it on a small area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the leather.  If you live in a warm climate, try leaving the windows open for several days.  Readers, other suggestions?

Question from Karen

Lisa’s Answer

Glass can have contaminants but it is typically inert and a safe choice.  Clear glass with no paint or coloring is the safest type of glass but I can’t guarantee that any specific item will have no contaminants whatsoever.  I think question is what is your safest choice?  I can’t think of anything safer than clear glass.  You can read more about glass here.

Question from Summer

Lisa’s Answer

This mattress protector is made from a GOTS certified organic cover, which is great.  The fill is organic cotton but it is not certified.  It is treated with an anti-microbial that is permitted by OEKO-TEX for their Standard 100 certification.  OEKO-TEX does permit a number of different fire retardants and anti-microbial that they have determined are non-toxic.  I would need to know more about what anti-microbial is used.  But, I believe there are safer alternatives.

Naturpedic

The reason I so strongly recommend Naturepedic is because their entire facility is GOTS certified and GOTS has the most stringent standard.  Their mattress cover is 100% GOTS certified cotton.  It is a waterproof pad so it does have a polyurethane barrier.  The polyurethane is GOTS certified which ensures that no harmful additives are added.  In its pure form, polyurethane is non-toxic.  This is a great option if you need a dust-mite barrier.

Coyuchi

This mattress pad is 100% GOTS cotton and does not have a waterproof barrier.

Question from Stefany

Lisa’s Answer

I would need to have more information from the company about the different stain options.  Teak oil can be natural or it can have added chemicals.  The stain is referred to as “vegetable stain” but provides no further information.  Linseed oil can be an allergen for some so I would test that first before using.  The company looks to be committed to providing safe non-toxic products so I think its worth getting more information from them before taking on the project of staining it yourself.  If you do decide to do it yourself Safecoat Duratone is a good choice.

Question from Mathew

Lisa’s Answer

Pu leather is generally safer than PU foam.  You can read more about it here.  PE foam is generally safer than PU foam but either can have chemical additives so it’s hard to compare on product to another.

Avoiding foam in general is a good idea unless it is certified organic natural latex.  I understand why preschools would want to have a cushioned mat for additional safety.  The safest synthetic foam play mat I have found is Cream Haus.

It is free of some the most harmful chemicals such as PVC, EVA, TPA, BPA, Lead, Phthalate, Fire Retardants, Formamide, and Formaldehyde and it is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified which tells you that there is an additional standard that the mats need to meet.

Question from Madelyn

Lisa’s Answer

There is a whole list of candles on Debra’s List.

Question from Sheryl

Lisa’s Answer

You can check out Debra’s List for safe furniture brands.  One of those listed is Unfinished Furniture Expo and they have reasonable prices.  You can also opt to have them painted with Milk Paint.

Question from Viki

Lisa’s Answer

Styrene butadiene latex is a synthetic latex that is made with fairly toxic ingredients but once cured it is less toxic.  A blended latex will have lower VOCs than a 100% synthetic latex but it will still have VOCs.  I understand that natural organic latex is expensive but I think it is one of the biggest priorities if you are looking to lower your toxic exposure because you spend several hours every day breathing in it’s emission.

A mattress with 30% natural latex is not a natural mattress.  I am also assuming the natural latex is not certified organic which means it is possible it could contain chemical additives.

Question from Nikki

Lisa’s Answer

I understand how confusing it is!  Your baby is already benefiting from the steps you have taken.  Stress isn’t good for you or the baby.  There is not a right or wrong answer about what is an acceptable balance.  Focusing on the big things is important; like a nontoxic mattress and crib.  5% spandex in clothing is not something to worry about, particularly if it is certified.

An organic cotton mat with polyester filling that is Oeko-Tex certified is a good choice.  I would choose this over the EVA mats that are popular.  Have you checked Etsy?  They do have some all organic cotton options.  If you find one with polyester fill contact the vendor and see if they can make it with a cotton or wool fill.

I plan to do a deeper dive into playmats because I have gotten a lot of questions about it but I’m not sure I will have it before you need to buy one.  Good luck!

Question from Mary

Lisa’s Answer

I’d recommend a fabric cover.  You can find hemp or other natural material covers on Etsy.  I honestly had to look up washi tape because I had never heard of it.  Any tape is going to introduce an adhesive.  Washi is typically made from a natural fiber paper but the adhesive can vary by manufacturer.  Overall, I don’t think this is a big exposure but if you are going to the trouble of covering your cords why cover them with something that could offgas?

Question from Miriam

Lisa’s Answer

Have you searched for silicone covers?  I googled hearing aid covers and came up with several options.  I’m not sure if they would fit your device but perhaps they could be cut.  I don’t recommend silicone for baking but it is inert at room temperature.

Question from Greg

Lisa’s Answer

I think it would be a great business idea for someone to make truly safer gym equipment.  Unfortunately, I don’t know of any that are truly No-VOC.  I’m not sure that’s possible.  The way I look at it is that the benefit of exercise outweighs the risks and you should minimize exposure where you can.  Also, home gyms are a very good place to have a good air purifier that captures VOCs.

The resistance bands shown seem better.  It’s good that they are not made with PVC but it doesn’t tell you what it is made of.

I haven’t looked into stationary bikes.  Readers, any suggestions?

Question from Stefany

Lisa’s Answer

Unless you are sensitive to EMFs I think metal dressers are a good choice.  Just make sure the metal is not coated with an epoxy or even vinyl coating.  One of the items listed is powder coated which is a good choice.  There were a couple that listed epoxy coating.  I’d avoid those.

Question from Stacey

Lisa’s Answer

Most cowhide rugs are made with a chrome tanning process, similar to leather.  It is toxic.  Some of the more toxic chemicals are Chrome VI, AZO-dyes, and formaldehyde.  Like leather, cowhide can be made with a vegetable tanning process which doesn’t use chrome VI or some of the other harsher chemicals, but it does use chemicals.  If you are interested in a vegetable tanned product, you would need to understand the chemicals used for the particular item.

Question from Mir

Lisa’s Answer

I looked for a MSDS online for Weldbond and didn’t see one.  I’ve never used a jewelry glue before so I’m not familiar with a safer one.  If you expect to use this only on occasion, I am not too concerned about it being a significant exposure.  Make sure you use it in a well ventilated area, ideally outside, and allow it fully cure.

Question from Duane

Lisa’s Answer

I haven’t done a full investigation on ovens in general.  If you have read my guide on Toasters and Toaster Ovens you’ll understand how challenging it is to get information about appliances.  It is something that I plan to dive into at some point but it will be a very big project so I can’t give you specific timing.

It’s hard to find safe, non-toxic kitchen appliances because manufacturers don’t always list the materials they use.  Here’s a guide to help you find a toaster or toaster oven that uses safer materials.

Toaster and Toaster Oven Buying Guide

Question from Lisa

Lisa’s Answer

I assume that the dishes are new.  If so, Villeroy & Boch claims that their dishes use lead-free glaze.  Even when manufacturers use lead free glazes, it’s possible that they could have traces of lead which can be a raw material contaminant.  Typically white dishes are a safer bet.  I believe the Manor pattern is white.  You can read more here about lead in ceramic dishes.

The EU has been evaluating tightening their lead limits for ceramics but it hasn’t been updated since the 1980’s.  I reached out to Villeroy & Boch to see if they meet or exceed California Proposition 65 limits but have not heard back.  I recommend buying white ceramic dishwater that meets or exceeds Prop 65.

Tamara Rubin from leadsafemama.com tests products including dishes with XRF equipment to see if they contain lead.  You could try that.  The limitation of this is that it tells you if there is lead content but does not tell you if it leaches out of the product.  You can use it as an extra precaution.  The testing, however, is not done in a laboratory and only tests one sample.  It can be a useful tool in some instances.

Question from Nicole

Lisa’s Answer

I would need more information than is provided on their website but there are some red flags.  The crib is described on some reseller websites as made of 100% beech wood.  On the Stokke site it is described as solid beech wood but then further down in the details it says it is a combination of solid beechwood, Beech laminate and beech plywood.  I find this very misleading. Laminate is made with adhesives so I would need to know what type of adhesives are used.  Plywood may contain formaldehyde.  I don’t see any certifications to confirm that they use formaldehyde-free plywood.

Also, the natural color has a finish that I would need to know more about.  The white and grey are stained and I would need to know more about the stain used.  You can call the company and ask if the have Safety Data Sheets for the finishes and materials used.  If you get those I can look at them to tell you more.

Question from Mir

Lisa’s Answer

Based on the information available in the links, greenrubbertoys.com seems like the best bet.  While I have a couple questions about their products, I am impressed with the information they do provide.  They are made with natural latex.  You might want to confirm that it is 100% natural latex with no additives but even if it isn’t, it’s a better choice than the others. They provide testing results for each product line.  Toys with brown paint may contain very low levels of lead, far below allowable limits.  Have your kids wash their hands after playing and of course, make sure they don’t put them in their mouths.

I would avoid anything with PVC.  The Target item has PVC.  The Hearthsong item has a Prop 65 warning label for Toulene, which means it is probably made of PVC.  I couldn’t find any information on materials on the Bullyland, battatco or Desertcart websites.

PEVA and EVA are two non-PVC vinyls.  They are typically safer than PVC because they don’t contain chlorine, and don’t typically contain phthalates.  They are however, petroleum-based plastic and can contain a number of chemical additives.  For example formamide is a hotly debated ingredient in EVA foam.  I know it’s really hard to find toys that have no plastic.  I think the natural latex dinosaur is a good choice!

Question from Anu

Lisa’s Answer

The Amish futon frame looks to be a good, non-toxic choice.  I would just confirm that the linseed oil is 100% linseed with no added ingredients.  Some very sensitive people do react to linseed oil.  It is not toxic but it can be a problem for some.

I’m not sure if you are looking for mattresses specifically at the futonshop or are asking a vernal question about mattresses.  Here is a good link to an article that Debra wrote about Naturepedic.  In her explanation about why Naturpedic is the best non-toxic mattress it tells you what to consider when buying a mattress.

Question from Roya

Lisa’s Answer

I can’t tell you exactly what made you feel ill because everyone is different, though people with hypersensitive have reported reacting to this unit as well as other air purifiers.  The housing is metal though the wheels are made of plastic and some off gassing will occur.  Some people have found that allowing it to run at full power outside or in a garage for a few days helps.

This is a very good unit.  There are a few others that I think are better but you can read more about that in my Portable Air Purifier Buying Guide.  You can read other people’s comments at the end where some reader’s indicate which air purifiers they have reacted to.

Question from Pia

Lisa’s Answer

I assume you are referring to the carbon in the filter.  Carbon is safe.  Just make sure you are replacing it as directed.  When the carbon becomes saturated it can re-release impurities back into the water.  I recommend avoiding plastic coffee makers as discussed in prior posts.

Question from Bonnie

Lisa’s Answer

I’m not a doctor and can’t tell you the exact health impact of a one-time bleach exposure for someone with a thyroid condition.  I don’t recommend using bleach.  Most bleach products contain several ingredients so I can’t give you specifics about how harmful the product is without knowing the ingredients.  In general, sodium hypochlorite, a common bleach ingredient has been shown to cause skin and respiratory sensitization, eye irritation, and neurotoxicity.  It is also very toxic to the aquatic environment.  Cotton used for fabric is washed and processed to remove impurities.  I am not aware of any reports of negative health effects from organic cotton due to manure.

I’ve written recently about the possible presence of lead in ceramic dishes and cookware.  The FDA recommends using lead test kits as a way to determine if it’s safe to eat or drink from your ceramic ware.  This type of test is helpful but limited.  It’s important to understand what you can learn from it and what you can’t.

Lead test kits became popular after the EPA established the 2008 Lead Renovating, Repair and Painting rule (RRP) that allows certified contractors to use certain lead test kits to determine if regulated lead-based paint is present in housing and other facilities where children are present.  Because the tests were designed to test paint some brands , such as Scitus, specifically state that they are not intended for ceramics.  It’s important to make sure the test you buy is appropriate for this purpose.

3M LeadCheck is the Best Brand for Testing Ceramics.

3M LeadCheck is an easy-to-use swab that is rubbed on the surface of the item you are testing.  If it turns red it indicates the presence of lead.  The directions on the package state that it takes just 30 seconds to determine the presence of lead but it’s worth noting that a Consumer Reports review found that it can take up to 2 hours if there are low levels of lead!  Make sure to wait this long to see if the swab turns red.

This Test Can Tell You if Lead Is Present but Not if It’s Free of Lead

The limitation of the 3M LeadCheck test is that it only detects lead down to 600ppm.  That means that a product could contain over 500ppm of lead and still test negative. For perspective, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) limits the amount of lead in children’s products to 100ppm.  Because no level of lead is safe, this is simply not a sensitive enough test to determine that a product’s safety.  If you get a positive result on your dishes or cookware, stop using them.  If you get a negative result it does not necessarily mean that no lead is present.

Lead test kits can be helpful for identifying lead in children’s toys, ceramic tiles, older porcelain enameled bathtubs, sinks and toilets.  Just remember that a negative reading doesn’t necessarily mean the item is free of lead.

Question from Audrey

Lisa’s Answer

I understand that your question is about getting rid of the smell but I’d also like to address the question of is the chair free of toxins.

First, regarding the smell, musty odor is due to mold or mildew.  To get mold or mildew there must be a source of moisture.  Is the humidity high in your home?  If so, you may want to look into a dehumidifier.  If not and you do not live in a humid climate, opening your windows and using a fan can help.  You could also try leaving the chairs in the sun for a period of time.  You can try to apply the vinegar which may help neutralize the odor.  I can’t tell you whether or not that will damage your fabric.

Regarding the potential toxicity, I am concerned about two things.  First, there could be mold in the cushions.  You could open them up to check.  If you cannot confirm that there is not any mold, I would not keep them.  Also, if the cushion is made with foam it could be a source of many chemicals of concern such as formaldehyde and fire retardants.  As foam gets older it breaks down and gets into household dust.  Even if it doesn’t smell it can still be exposing you to chemicals.  I don’t recommend upholstered furniture unless it is made with non-toxic fillers such as natural latex, wool or cotton.

Question from Bonnie

Lisa’s Answer

Thanks for sharing this information.  It’s frustrating that there is not better disclosure from manufacturers.  I am not surprised that the product specialist was also not aware of this.

Question from Diana

Lisa’s Answer

Shellac is typically lower in VOCS than lacquers but not all are the same.  It’s possible that you could be trading one problem for another.  Also, I’m not aware of any shellac product that provides independent testing that it blocks VOC off gassing.

Question from Elizabeth

Lisa’s Answer

My favorite brand is Medley (formerly called Stem).  You would need to select natural latex as an option.  I have a couch by this company and find it to be fairly firm and it holds up well over time.  You can find other options on Debra’s List.

Question from Janet

Lisa’s Answer

I haven’t looked into this category.  That will be an extensive research project so beyond the scope of the Q&A.  I’ll keep it on my list of future products to investigate.

Question from Bonnie

Lisa’s Answer

Formaldehyde is typically used in clothing to minimize wrinkles.  It can be found even in 100% cotton clothing particularly if it is something that wrinkles easily like a dress shirt.  Here is one older study that tests several clothing items (pg 36) and as you can see there is formaldehyde found in 100% cotton as well as many types of cotton/synthetic blends.  What it also shows is that items that are prone to wrinkling are more likely to test higher in formaldehyde.  Given that a sweater is less likely to wrinkle it may not contain formaldehyde regardless of the material but I can’t tell you that for certain.  You can call the companies and ask them but they are not required to disclose that information.  If the item has a chemical odor that is an indicator (but not definitive) that it contains formaldehyde.

I wish that there was a standard rule of thumb that could tell more definitively what has it and what does not, but that is not the case.

Both slow cooking and pressure cooking are thought to be healthier cooking methods and they are certainly convenient but are the materials used in the appliances safe?

Why I Prefer Pressure Cookers to Slow Cookers

There is no perfect pressure cooker or slow cooker and there are issues with the materials in each type.  The concern with cookware materials is that heavy metals, synthetic chemicals, and contaminants can leach into food. Leaching increases with acidic foods, higher temperatures and longer cooking times.  I prefer pressure cookers because of their short cooking time.  The longer cooking times associated with the slow cooking method will increase leaching of any heavy metals or contaminants in the cookware.

Additionally, most new pressure cookers are made of stainless steel, which I consider a safe cookware material unless you are sensitive to nickel or chromium.  Make sure that the steel does not have a non-stick coating.  Some pressure cookers are made of aluminum which I don’t recommend.  You can read more in the Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Cookware about stainless steel, aluminum and non-stick coatings.

There is one caveat.  I don’t recommend using a stainless steel pressure cooker every day or with high frequency.  While stainless steel is one of the safer cooking materials, it does leach nickel and chromium.  You can read more about the health effects here.  I recommend using stainless steel cookware in a rotation of other safe cookware.

Are Slow Cooker Materials Safe?

I don’t recommend any slow cooker for regular use but some are better than others.

Glazed Ceramic

Most of you are probably aware of the danger of lead leaching from ceramic slow cookers.  This became widely publicized after a 2004 investigation by KUTV Salt Lake City found 20% of slow cookers leached measurable levels of lead.  Lead had been used as an ingredient in the glaze to improve shine.  Many manufactures have since stopped adding lead as an ingredient but it may still be present as a raw material contaminate.  Additionally, glazes can contain additives such as titanium dioxide to make white interiors and aluminum oxide to stiffen glazes.  The FDA randomly tests ceramic cookware for lead and cadmium but doesn’t test for other additives.  Additionally, the FDA limit for lead in large ceramic containers like slow cookers is 1 mcg/mL . There is no safe level for lead so it’s important to reduce exposures as much as possible. California Proposition 65 has a much more stringent limit for lead at 0.5mcg/day.  If you have a product that meets or exceeds Prop 65, it’s a better choice than one that does not.  But, due to the long cooking time that could increase the leaching of any contaminants I recommend avoiding this type of slow cooker.

Non-Stick Ceramic Coating

I don’t recommend non-stick ceramic coating for any type of cookware or appliance.  You can read more about it in the Ultimate Guide to Non-Stick Cookware.

Unglazed Ceramic

VitaClay and Miriam’s earthen cookware are two brands that make slow cookers with natural, unglazed clay.  There are no heavy metals added to the clay but because it is a natural material and there is no coating to protect against leaching, any contaminants in the clay could migrate into food.  Both VitaClay and Miriam’s provide testing that shows they meet or exceed California Proposition 65 standards for lead.  Miriam’s earthen cookware website lists one test performed by an independent lab that shows no extractable lead, extractable cadmium or arsenic.  That’s reassuring however, it doesn’t explain the testing method and because it is just one test, it doesn’t show consistent results with different batches of clay.  VitaClay provides one test performed with an acidic solution to accelerate leaching that shows no detectable levels of lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic.

If you currently own one of these, I’m not suggesting that you don’t use it.  There is no evidence that there are harmful substances leaching from these appliances and people have cooked in earthenware for centuries. They may be fine to use but they are not without risk.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel slow cookers are more of a concern than stainless steel pressure cookers because of the long cooking times, which increases leaching.  If you only plan to use a slow cooker occasionally, stainless steel slow cookers are fine but I don’t recommend them for regular use.

My Choice is an Instant Pot multicooker

For many years I used a VitaClay slow cooker but when it broke, I replaced it with an Instant Pot that has both pressure cooker and slow cooker functions.  I use the pressure cooker a couple of times a month and I use the slow cooker function only on occasion.  I don’t use it for highly acidic foods such as chili or tomato sauce.  I cook those in my glass ceramic Visions Dutch Oven.

Question from Debra

Lisa’s Answer

It will eventually cure and stop smelling but the length of time will depend on many factors including the humidity, ventilation, thickness of coats, and whether each coat was dry before you put on another coat.  You can use a fan and humidifier to quicken the pace but I don’t think you want to be breathing the fumes in the meantime.  I would remove it to an outdoor location or garage until the odor subsides.  You can read more here about how to minimize the odor and off gassing from paint.

Question from Darshana

When you are researching again, would you take a look at this popular “ceramic-coated” pan?

Lisa’s Answer

I haven’t looked into this one specifically but I don’t recommend any ceramic-coated pans.  You can read more about it in the Ultimate Guide to Non-Stock Cookware.

Question from Patricia

We live in a 600 square foot condo in a cool, very damp and humid climate on the northern oregon coast.  I am researching ways to decrease indoor humidity to decrease mold etc. as our humidity can be well over 50%. We do not have central air/AC (we have electric baseboard heaters) so I am thinking about portable dehumidifiers.
Are there any trusted brands you can recommend?
Anything I should avoid?
Any help is greatly appreciated!

Lisa’s Answer

I have not investigated dehumidifiers.  Readers, any suggestions?

Question from Pia

i bought a stainless steel coffee pot to eliminate the plasst but now i see there are bpa free coffeee pots-are they safe?

Lisa’s Answer

Unfortunately, The chemicals used to replace BPA have been shown to be just as harmful as BPA.  The Additional problem with coffee pots is that leaching increases with temperature, time and the acidity of the food or beverage.  Coffee is acidic and it the process uses hot water.  Both of these increase leaching.

The precautionary principle is an approach sometimes used by policy makers in situations where there is the possibility of harm from making a decision and conclusive evidence is not yet available.  It essentially means better safe than sorry.  This is the approach that I use in evaluating the toxicity of products.  When I research a product or material and there is credible, emerging evidence that it is potentially harmful I will recommend against its use.  This doesn’t mean you should never use it or throw it away, but rather it’s an indication that there is a reason to be concerned and safer alternatives should be sought when possible.  Think tobacco and asbestos.  For years consumers were told that these products were safe, in spite of evidence to the contrary.

The current regulations in our country are not even close to adequate to keep us safe.

• Over 40,000 registered chemicals are in use in the U.S. and only 1% have been rigorously tested for safety.^{1, 2}
• In the U.S., 11 chemicals have been restricted for use in Personal Care products vs. 1373 in the EU.³
• Congress passed a law in 2016 to improve regulation.  As of 2020, the EPA is actually requiring less testing than under the old law.⁴

The belief that the amount of chemicals present in consumer products is so low that it is not concerning doesn’t take into account the cumulative or synergistic effect of the onslaught of chemicals we are exposed to every day.  This example from oecotextiles.blog illustrates this risk.  “a dose of mercury that would kill 1 out of 100 rats, when combined with a dose of lead that would kill 1 out of 1000 rats – kills every rat exposed!”

We must advocate for dramatic improvements from government and industry in chemical management.  In the meantime, let’s choose to be safe rather than sorry.

Question from B

I have not found a fabric i like via any of the natural couch companies. How can I source my own non toxic fabrics? Do you have any suggestions for interior designers who can help me design a non toxic home?  I am in MA. thank you.

Lisa’s Answer

I don’t know of a designer in Massachusetts but if you do find one that claims to design healthy homes I would check the credentials that qualify them to do that kind of work.  Ideally, I would look for someone with a BBNC certification from the Building Biology Institute.

Eco-terric.com is located in California but they offer nation-wide design services.  The best non-toxic fabric resource is Two Sisters Ecotextiles.  They have a huge selection of very safe fabrics.

I am also available to consult with a local designer.

I was helping a reader evaluate a product made from polyethylene terephthalate and thought it would be helpful to share the information because it can be confusing.  This material has more than one chemical name as well as many brand names.  Also, surprisingly, it is not a phthalate!

Debra Lynn Dadd wrote the following article on zerotoxics.com.

POLYESTER is a category of polymers that have a specific structure. As a material, it usually refers to a the type of polyester called POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE (PET)

It is the most common thermoplastic polymer resin of the polyester family and is used to make

• fibers for clothing (where it is called “polyester” or Dacron)
• recyclable containers for liquids and foods (where it is called PET or PETE)
• film for food packaging and space blankets (where it is called MPET or Mylar)

Polyester and polyethylene terephthalates are one and the same.

Polyester is the third most-produced polymer in the world, after polyethylene (PS) and polypropylene (pp).

GOTS-Approved Polyester & Polyethylene Terephthalate

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) approves certain non-agricultural materials for use in making GOTS-certified products that are primarily made from organic agricultural materials. These “approved” materials must meet the portion of their standard that prohibits a whole list of toxic chemicals. “GOTS-Approved Polyester” and “GOTS-Approved Polyethylene Terephthalate”  are polyester and polyethylene terephthalate, respectively, that qualifies to be used in GOTS-certified organic products because it does not contain any of their prohibited chemicals.

This makes polyester and polyethylne terephthalate two of the few plastics approved by GOTS for the making of the incidental “accessory” pieces needed to construct a quality product.

NOTE: About 85% of polyesters contain antimony, which is not allowed by GOTS. GOTS-certified polyester is tested to ensure no antimony is present in the polyester approved by GOTS. This does not mean that all polyester is approved by GOTS, only polyester that is free of antimony and other toxic residues.

Common Misconceptions

There are some common misconceptions about polyethylene terephthalate.

1. Polyethylene terephthalate contains ZERO polyethylene.

Plastics are made of basic units called “monomers.”

The monomer for PET is ethylene terephthalate. PET is commonly recycled, and has the number 1 as its recycling symbol.

The monomer for polyethylene is ethylene. PE is also commonly recycled and has the number 4 as it’s recycling symbol.

These are two different plastics.

2. Polyethylene terephthalate contains ZERO phthalates.

PET and PETE are acronyms for “polyethylene terephthalate.” It’s logic to think that “terephthalate” contains “phthalates.” But the toxic “phthalates” that leach out of plastics are “orthophthalates,” which is a completely different type of chemical than “terephthalate.”

Health Effects

PET has been approved as safe by the FDA and the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI). In 1994, ILSI stated that “PET polymer has a long history of safe consumer use, which is supported by human experience and numerous toxicity studies.”

I also researched to see if there was any release of chemical gasses from PET into the air. (this is called “outgassing”).

NASA has a website called Outgassing Data for Selecting Spacecraft Materials Online where you can look up all kinds of materials they have assessed because they need to choose materials for spaceships that do not outgas. They found that PET needed zero curing time to be used in a spaceship. So if you are designing a spaceship or some other small area, PET would be a good choice.

All that said, in recent years there have been some concerns about specific uses of polyether and PET.

Problems with leaching from water bottles are the most widely publicized problem. Most commonly discussed is leaching of antimony, a metalloid element that is used as a catalyst in the making of PET. After manufacturing, a detectable amount of antimony can be found on the surface of the PET. While this can be removed with washing, antimony within the PET can migrate into the water in the bottle, or any other liquid contained in a PET bottle. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the health risk of the resulting low concentrations is negligible (1% of the “tolerable daily intake).

Antimony is also present in polyester fibers, but again, will you actually be exposed to it and will it cause a health effect? This well-reserched post says no: O ECOTEXTILES: WIll the antimony in polyester fabric hurt me?

There have also been reports of leaching of aldehydes from PET bottles, enough to give an off-taste to bottled water. Even extremely low concentrations (10–20 parts per billion in the water) of acetaldehyde can produce an off-taste. Whether or not this poses a health risk is undetermined.

Question from Marcella

I was just browsing all the clothing websites you have for plus size women. It is a shame that I cannot find 100% linen whether organic or not for plus size women (22W or above 3X) that is affordable. It appears that these designers are making clothes for the rich and famous only. You pay more the label itself than you do the material.

Do you know or can you find a website that will meet the need of my request?

Lisa’s Answer

You can find my recommended brands on Debra’s List and here and here.  I hope you find something that works for you.

Question from Mary

Can you tell me if Pure CureDenture Detox is still in business? If not, do you know of a similar product or company where I might purchase detox kits to make my partial denture non toxic. I appreciate your time. Thank you.

Lisa’s Answer

Here is the company website.  I do believe their process is safe as it is based on a proprietary blend including natural charcoal.  However, I just want to be clear that there is no third party testing to authenticate that this eliminates toxics.  I don’t think there is harm in trying.

Question from EM

Hello! I was recently trying to figure out what my garden hose is made of, and it turns out that it’s made of PVC (not surprising). What is surprising is that it’s advertised as “toxin-free — no lead, BPA or phthalates.” That’s confusing, and I’m suspicious. Your thoughts?

https://www.gardeners.com/buy/lightweight-garden-hose/8609547.html?SC=XNET0279#start=3Is

Lisa’s Answer

This is a great question.  The answer is complex because there is no government regulation of the term “toxic-free”.  That leaves the consumer in the position of evaluating the safety of the product.  Lead, BPA, and phthalates are among the more concerning chemicals in PVC but they are not the only ones.  PVC tends to have more chemical additives than some other plastics.  These additives are not typically disclosed.  They can include cadmium and biocides.  PVC also off-gases. The only way to know for certain what exposure you have from this hose is to test the hose itself or the water that passes through.  Out of caution, I’d steer clear of any PVC.

I’ve had several people ask me if air fryers are safe.  There are really two parts to this question.  First, we need to understand if the food made in an air fryer is healthy.  Next, we need to see if the appliance itself has unhealthy materials that can leach into food.  I’m not a nutritionist so the first part of the question is outside my area of expertise, but I have been learning about and eating a healthy diet for most of my life so I’ll offer my opinion.

Food made in an air fryer is healthier than deep fried food but that doesn’t mean it’s healthy.  The main benefits over deep frying are fewer calories, less fat and lower levels of acrylamide.  Air fryers use very hot, circulated air to cook the food.  As a result, you can use a fraction of the amount oil used for deep frying.  Some fryers claim to reduce fat up to 75%.  Acrylamide is a compound that is formed when certain high-carbohydrate foods such as potatoes are cooked for long periods at high heat.  Acrylamide is a probable carcinogen and has been linked to certain cancers including endometrial, ovarian, breast, pancreatic, and esophageal cancer (source). One study found that air fryers reduce acrylamides up to 90% (source).

Cooking meat at high temperatures for long periods form harmful substances including heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer (source).  HCAs are formed when meat is cooked above 300° for long periods and PAHs are formed when meat is exposed to smoke and flames.  Meat cooked in an air fryer can still form these compounds.

To reduce the risk of forming HCAs and PAHs, avoid burning the food and remove any charred portions.  It’s also really important to use some form of ventilation.  At least when you fry on the stove top you can (and should!) use your range hood to ventilate and when you barbeque you are outdoors.  You need to find a similar method of ventilation when air frying.  Open a window or find a safe way to use the air fryer under your range hood to reduce the smoke and fumes.

Do air fryers contain toxic materials that could leach into food?

This part of the question is my area of expertise!

Many air fryers have non-stick coatings and are made of plastic.  I don’t recommend them.

Non-Stick Coatings

Many air fryers use either a PTFE-based coating or ceramic coating.  You can read more about why I don’t recommend either of these in The Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Cookware.  Some people believe that ceramic coatings are safe but there is emerging evidence of risks associated with their use.  At best, more research is needed to prove their safety.

Plastic

Many air fryers have a plastic casing.  Even if the plastic does not touch the food it will heat up during cooking which can increase off-gassing.  Read more about the toxicity of plastic here.  Also, some may use insulation to keep the plastics from getting too hot.  It’s not known what materials are used for this insulation.

Not Recommended

I don’t recommend any of these models because they are made of plastic and/or use non-stick coatings.

Ninja Air Fryer

The basket and crisper plate are made of aluminum with a ceramic non-stick coating.  The casing is made of plastic.  It does have a California Proposition 65 warning label but the company was unable to tell me which material requires it.

Cosori Air Fryer

The basket has a PTFE-based (Teflon) coating.  The casing is plastic, made from polypropylene and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

GoWise USA

The basket has a PTFE-based coating.  The casing is plastic.  It does have a California Proposition 65 warning label on it but the company was unable to tell me what material requires it.

Better Options

These options are better because they are made primarily of glass or metal but each has some areas of concern.

Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fryer

The frying rack is uncoated and made of a chrome-plated aluminum.  The baking pan is non-stick so if you purchase this item, I would avoid using the baking pan.  The interior of the oven does not have a coating.  The unit has a California Proposition 65 warning label for the 2 relatively small plastic parts (handle and legs), neither of which come in contact with the food.

Big Boss Oil-Less Fryer

The main compartment is made of tempered glass.  The basket and racks have a non-stick coating.  If you wanted to purchase this item, I would not use the basket and rack and look for an uncoated stainless steel rack with similar dimensions.  It does have a California Proposition 65 warning label but the company was not able to tell me the material that requires it.

This is the Best Option I Found

Oyama Turbo Convection Oven

The main compartment is made of tempered glass with uncoated stainless steel racks.  It does not have a California Proposition 65 warning label.

Please know that I have not used this model or any of those referenced so I can’t speak to performance.  This one seems to get good ratings online but you should check them out for yourself.

Personally, I plan to skip this trend and opt for healthier cooking methods like steaming and baking.  If you do choose to opt in, select a model with safer materials and only use it on occasion.

Question from Miriam

My son wants some ‘Paw Patrol’ decals for his room.  I’ve found some non-vinyl ones which supposedly are made from a “high quality polyester textile in North America”.

I emailed the vendor and asked if they contain PFAS or lead, BPA, or phthalates.  They replied ”

None of our products have any of these elements.” I’m not sure whether I can just take their word for it, or if there’s anything else to be asking about.

Lisa’s Answer

Unfortunately, there’s no way to verify their response other than testing the items.  There will be a small amount of off-gassing from the polyester and the adhesive but given they are small in size I don’t think there is a big exposure.  It’s definitely better than PVC.  Odor is not a reliable way to determine the amount of off-gassing but it can be an indicator.  If there is a strong smell I would not use them or at least air them outside for a few days.  Also, better not to use them in the bedroom.  Lead is regulated for children’s products and since the company makes specialty children’s products I would hope and assume they would avoid any use of lead so I would believe their claim.  I also wouldn’t expect any need for PFAS.  BPA would not really be an issue unless you were touching them and I assume that will not be the case.  Phthalates can offgas but, again, they have claimed they do not contain any.

Question from Judith

I have had the PAX wardrobe and MALM dresser for several years now. In the past year I have noticed that when put clean, dry clothes in the drawers they have a musty smell when I take them out. I read your reply about them earlier in this list and it seems the off gassing should have occurred by now. Is there any other reason you can think of for this odor? I have tried putting charcoal deodorizers and wiping them down with baking soda to no avail.  Thank you

Lisa’s Answer

I don’t think this is due to the furniture given that you have had it for some time. A musty smell comes from mold or mildew.  Do you have levels of humidity in your house that could be causing moisture?  Even though the clothes are clean do they have this odor before they go in the drawer?

Question from Kelly

Do Mikasa Intaglio, Corelle Indian Summer, Fire King green dinnerware, any corning Ware or pyrex contain toxins? Does gold rimmed Monet glassware?   Does Monroe (Lenox) stemware contain toxins?

Lisa’s Answer

Question from Miriam

We are setting up our homeschool environment and I have a few questions about furniture.
We’d like to get an ‘active’ chair for my son.  Most of the ones I’ve found don’t look great, materials are not really disclosed.  I did find this one, although more pricey, does this seem like a good option?
Made of beechwood grown and harvested in Northwestern Germany
Certified sustainable by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC)
https://www.fully.com/chairs/kids/tic-toc-tyke-chair.htmlIt has 3 options for finishes:
1. PU varnish as a finish for naural,
2.  black nitrocellulose lacquer for black, or
3.  red nitrocellulose lacquer for red
Would you feel comfortable with any of these?

p.s. here are a few of the non-wood ones I had found, here and here – if any of these look decent, we’d do one of these perhaps:

Lisa’s Answer

I’d like a little more information about the chair from fully.com but it seems like the better choice over the 2 plastic alternatives.  First of all, fully.com is a B corp and states that they are committed to transparency and minimizing toxins and waste so I imagine they will be willing and able to provide the information we need.  The chair looks to be solid wood but the top of the chair is probably engineered.  I would want the following additional information:

Is the top of the chair solid wood and if not does the engineered wood have any certifications such as CARB Phase 2, NAF, etc.?

Is the adhesive used low VOC?  Is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available?

Is the PU lacquer low VOC?  Is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available?

Question from Reenie

A friend ordered bamboo sheets and they sent her a soft microfiber set of sheets.  Are these safe for the body and the environment?  Thanks!

Lisa’s Answer

Question from April

Thank you so much for all your priceless info! Seriously. Thank you for this resources. I don’t know what I would do without it! I’m wondering if you’ve reviewed or have any insight into Empire Today’s Home Fresh carpet? It’s being touted as low to no VOCs and hypoallergenic. Not much is said about the installation materials. I’m wondering if this is a valid low cost option. I would greatly appreciate any info you can offer.

Lisa’s Answer

Question from Jordan

In your “about me” description you mentioned you have built a few homes using nontoxic/low emitting materials. My family and I are going to be building our first home and would like to do the same. I am interested to know how you did this and materials used. So more on this topic would be helpful and I would be willing to pay for a consult as well if that is something you do.
Looking forward to seeing/reading all your knowledge on non toxic living.

Lisa’s Answer

Question from Jordan

Congrats and thank you on being a non-toxic expert! I could really use your help. We are in dire straits trying to find dining chairs. We have been looking for several months and still have nothing. We are looking for vegan, organic/non-toxic, sustainable, fairly made chairs that are soft and comfortable. We also need the seat height a little higher than a lot out there. Aye Aye Aye!! If you have any resources to direct us to, you would be saving our lives. This chair search is giving me a stroke LOL

Question from Barbara

Question from Bonnie

Question from Miriam

Question from Catherine

Hello, I recently came across your site and so happy that I did !I would like to purchase a air fryer and would like to know your opinion . I had my eye on a air fryer that QVC is selling but I saw that it had a California warning label. Are air fryers safe ? I know that they are a healthy way to cook, but are they toxic ?

I haven’t researched air fryers yet but I, too, am curious.  The California warning label is often due to lead in the cord of small appliances.  I am not concerned about this as an exposure unless you you have small children who might have access to the cord.  What I do want to look into is the coatings used on the inside of the appliance and the type of energy used to cook the food.  Check back soon and hopefully I’ll have some answers.

Question from Shelly

Do you onow anything about the daniel sofa from four seasons? My daughter is toxic week from aldehyde and we moved and I haven’t really found the source of it but now it might be our bedroom furniture so I can paint that will save seal but I’m wondering if I need to cancel my new sofa order. My bedroom furniture is from Ashlea and it says made in Vietnam. We’ve had it for three years. And my daughters sofa says that it’s phase 2 California formaldehyde compliant. So her issues might be from my furniture. It might be really bad because I’ve really suffered with constant UTIs and pain. Now I’m wondering if it’s some chemical in the furniture or maybe it’s the formaldehyde anything that you know that you can share is much appreciated.

There are several chemicals of concern that could be found in a traditional sofa.  The most concerning are flame retardants.  You could call the company and ask if they contain any.  Here is an article that references other concerns.  Most traditional sofas, including the one you mention, is made with polyurethane foam, which can have many chemicals of concern.  California Phase 2 (CARB Phase 2) only measures the content from the wood components.  It does not tell you about the foam and fabrics.  You can check out Debra’s List of safe furniture makers.

Question from Kate

I have metal allergies, including to nickel and chromium. I REALLY miss my electric kettle. There are electric kettles w foodgrade 304 stainless steel (which i understand contains nickel and chromium) bottom and lid and borosilicate glass sides and lip (eg ASCOT). Q: Does boiling water leach nickel and chromium from stainless steel?  I know acidic food would.

I wrote an article about leaching from stainless steel into water.  One study showed that stainless steel did not leach into water in any tested scenario.  Most studies test stainless steel using acid solutions so more research is needed to provide a more definitive assessment of leaching into water.  One factor that determines the amount of leaching is surface area and given that only part that comes in contact with the water is the bottom, leaching would be further limited.  If you did not have allergies, I would say it’s a good choice. But given that you have allergies to metal I suggest you check with your doctor. I know some people with metal allergies avoid all stainless steel.

Question from Tracie

Sorry to bother you but i have looked for info and have had no luck on what tub to get because i cant afford to much. i was wondering if i got one that is plastic with a acrylic coat if it would work because a full acrylic tub just cost to much. if you have any idea i would be very grateful. i am very sensitive and can only eat 15 foods.

I’m sorry you are having a challenging time.  If you are very sensitive, I can’t tell you what you will or will not react to because everyone is different.  I can give you some general advice about the relative toxicity of different options.  I usually recommend porcelain enameled steel or porcelain enameled cast iron but I know those can be pricey.  Have you consider buying a used one?  I’m not sure where you live but stores like Restore sell used building products.  Just be careful not to buy one built before 1996 because the glazing could contain lead.

I don’t recommend acrylic tubs because they are made with petrochemicals and offgas.  I don’t know what type of plastic is in the core of an acrylic coated tub so I can’t really speak to its toxicity.

Question from Elizabeth

Thank you so much for your awesome work and resources!! I’m wondering if there are any specific brands that you would recommend for a toxic free chair and desk?

It’s hard for me to answer that without a better understanding of your budget and just how “toxic -free” you want the items to be.  You can look at the companies listed in the furniture section of Debra’s List for some good options.

Question from KHedden

Does the Pottery Barn Whitney Corner Desk contain VOCs? I am trying to “de-tox” my bedroom and I was told that Pottery Barn Furniture is toxic!!

Question from Annique

I noticed an older question about Janice’s in Hartford, CT by people wondering if the company was still in existence.  I called Janice’s & learned they are still open for business. Their website isn’t currently available, but they do have a mail out catalog.

I found these phone numbers online:
Phone: 800-526-4237
2nd Phone: 860-523-4479
Fax: 860-523-4178

Just thought you’d want to know!

Question from Anusha

I have going above and beyond with ikea to find out about their bamboo shelves and haven’t got any answers back about if they use veneers or is there any toxicity in they clear lacquer finish , and finally I found the Elfa options on container store but they are Epoxy-bonded steel construction , I am not sure if these are toxic ? its like I cannot find a toxic free storage system

Question from Rosie

I came across your wonderful website while researching TPU. I’ve been using SmileDirectClub aligners in lieu of braces for over a year and a half to straighten out my teeth . The aligners are in my mouth for about 22 hours a day. I found out from the company that they are made of a “BPA-free thermoplastic polyurethane material, as opposed to SLA (Stereolithography).” Do you think there is a health risk in having these aligners in my mouth for so long? Are there other questions I should be asking the company? Thank you!

Question from Christine

Hi: I just ran across this new non-stick cookware – The Always Pan – and wonder if it’s as healthy to use as the Xtrema cookware line (I purchased.

Question from Christina

Hello! I have been researching and driving myself crazy trying to find a safe flooring. We have vinyl peel and stick squares in our kitchen (they’ve been there since we bought the house 13 yrs ago) I’m sure they are done off gassing (no smell what so ever now) we are looking for safe flooring that can with stand our two huskies. We just purchased Cali Bamboo website – Cali Vinyl Pro Mute step in Dock Wood Oak color. It is Floorscore certified their website does list the reports of emissions. Have you heard any concerns of this brand? Any help would be appreciated. I am the only member in the family who is chemically sensitive. Since we already have the product, should I have my husband cut a plank open and put it in a glass jar for a week and see how it smells? I noticed it’s not free of phthalates – their reports states emissions under 50ppm. Can you help me to understand the danger the this? Thank you so much!!!

Question from Cynthia

I am looking for a safe sofa lamp and bedside lamp.  Are there any manufacturers that you recommend?
I have chronic Lyme disease, “sick building syndrome”, reactive airway disease and more.
Also, what about light bulbs?  Recommendations?

Question from LM

I looked on the site and did not find anything about carbon steel cookware. Apparently it’s  a “perfect hybrid of a cast iron skillet and a stainless steel frying pan. It has a cast iron’s heat retention, seasoning, and non-stick properties and stainless steel’s heat control, lightness and cooking speed.”  Is it non toxic?

I recently published the Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Cookware.  Carbon Steel is one of the safest options as long as it does not have a non-toxic coating on it.  Carbon steel that is not coated needs to be seasoned regularly, just like cast iron.

Question from Patricia

I hesitated in bothering you but I am frustrated with not getting answers to questions regarding dental floss. After reading about the dangers of Pafs Teflon coatings on floss I am trying to find a brand to purchase that is organic and chemical free. I threw my Oral B glide in the trash. I love the Listerine Ultraclean brand because it’s easy to use and doesn’t break but it’s a light blue plastic string. I called them and they said no chemicals. Do you know if that’s true? I went to purchase other organic chemical free brands but after reading bad reviews Like from too thick, breaking easily…to poor packaging I am lost as to what to buy. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I would love to continue using the Listerine product but if it has chemicals I will stop.
Thanks for any feedback.

Unfortunately, I can’t tell you anything beyond what the company will disclose.  If the product is plastic, the claim that there are no chemicals is not possible.  Perhaps they said no chemical coatings?  In any case, out of caution, I would not use it.

I use FlossPot. It’s made of silk and is fairly strong.  My teeth are tight together and I do occasionally break the floss but not so often that it bothers me.  I love that is comes in a stainless steel container that can be refilled.

Question from Karen

Does anyone else react to disinfectant sprays used in stores during this virus?

Readers?

Question from Bonnie

I found bed sheets on the bed,bath,& beyond website. The description states micro sanded. What does that mean? Sanded with what? It does not list the manufacturer.

Sandwashing is a process in which the fabric is put in a container with lava rock, silicone or rubber balls and rotated so the material is brushed to make it softer.  While the process in theory should not add any toxics to the material I can’t say for certain if any chemicals are added to the process.

Question from Debbie

Looking for references for nontoxic flatware and pots and pans made anywhere except Asian countries

You can look at my Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Cookware.  Many of the companies listed manufacture in the U.S. or France.  While I am all for buying products made in America, when I evaluate the healthfulness and safety of a product I am more interested in the practices and transparency of the company than the country of manufacture.  I am more confident in the companies who demonstrate commitment to producing safe products, willingness to share information about materials and manufacturing processes, and have strict oversight of the production than I am about the location.

Question from Jennifer

I was wondering if you might be able to recommend safe bakeware, in particular a cake pan and muffin tin. What is the best material that won’t leach chemicals into my food?

You can read more about cookware and bakeware in the Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Cookware.  Glass, stainless steel (if you are not sensitive to nickel), and cast iron are best choices.

I use a cast iron muffin pan and glass cake pans.

Question from Tgw

Recently I have read that many pure and naturally grown stuffings (ie kapok and wool) and even GOTS organic cotton from countries other than the USA are fumigated with chemicals (for insects) just prior to entry here to the US.   Products often do not list the country of origin for materials used; how do I avoid this since I have many sensitivities?

I agree this is an issue.  The only way I know of to find this out is to call the company.  There is no other source that I am aware of for this information.

Most ceramic dishware is safe to use as long as it doesn’t contain leachable lead or cadmium.

Lead in Ceramics

Lead has traditionally been used in ceramic glazes and decorations to give it a glasslike finish and allow colors and patterns to show through.  Lead exposure is a serious health concern and every exposure is harmful, particularly to children.¹  The EPA does not consider dishware to be a primary source of exposure but because lead is ubiquitous in the environment, including soil, food and water, it should be avoided when possible. ²   Fortunately, many manufacturers now use lead-free glazes, although lead may still be present in low amounts due to contamination of raw materials from the environment.  Ceramic that is properly fired and doesn’t add lead as an ingredient shouldn’t leach.³

Cadmium in Ceramics

Cadmium is often added to glazes to create bright red and orange colors.  It is present in low levels in the environment and primary sources of human exposure are through certain foods and smoking.  Higher levels of exposure in children have been linked to neurological problems.⁴

Regulations for Ceramicware

There are regulations to keep consumers safe from lead and cadmium exposure but they are limited.  The FDA randomly tests ceramicware for leachable lead and cadmium and keeps a record of products that have failed. California Proposition 65, which requires warning labels on products that contain harmful chemicals at unsafe levels , has a much more stringent standard for lead and cadmium.  If you’re buying new dishware, choose products that do not carry a Proposition 65 warning label.  As an extra step before purchasing, check with the manufacturer to ensure the product doesn’t exceed Proposition 65 lead and cadmium limits.

Are Your Dishes Safe?

If you can’t determine if your current dishes were tested to meet California Proposition 65 or if they were purchased before the guidelines were published in 1987, you can follow these general guidelines.

• Plain white dishware is more likely to be free of lead or cadmium.
• These types of ceramic dishes are more likely to be a source of lead or cadmium:
  • • Handmade (unless you can confirm the ingredients and proper firing)
    • Antique
    • Chipped or damaged
    • Ceramics colored red, yellow, or orange
    • Labelled as “Not Food Safe”
    • Ceramics with decorations on top of the glaze or rim
• You can test for lead using lead test strips.  A negative reading doesn’t guarantee there is no lead, but a positive reading will tell you there is lead.
• Tamara Rubin of leadsafemamma.com, uses special equipment to test individual products for lead content and reports on her findings. Keep in mind that even if a product tests positive for lead content it does not tell you anything about whether lead will leach out into food.  Properly fired ceramics shouldn’t leach but you may choose to avoid dishware with lead content, particularly if levels are high, as a precautionary measure.

Question from Echo

II have vinyl peel and stick flooring in three rooms in my house. They are about 3-4 years old. I want to remove or cover them all as I have small children. Do I need to remove it completely and then cover it?  If I cover it with ceramic tile or organic wool carpeting will the toxic voc’s or contaminates still seep through?  One of the floors is in my son’s room so I want it to be completely safe.

I would remove it because vinyl is one of the most toxic plastics and is likely to have formaldehyde.  Ceramic tile will create more of a barrier that carpet.  It will probably block some of the fumes but I am not aware of any concrete data that will tell you how much it would block.  As you very aptly point out, it is for your young child’s bedroom so all the more reason to take the safest route.

Question from Sarah

Hi, I am shopping for flooring to do my whole house upstairs and down. Kids rooms as well. I am very sensitive to fumes. We saw an affordable flooring we liked today but it’s an engineered vinyl ? Dynamix Is the company. What to do? Hardwood is so pricey and not durable with 3 children . I feel stuck. Any tips?

Cali LVP is the only brand of vinyl flooring I recommend.  Andy Pace, from The Green Design Center, has tested many vinyl flooring products that claim to be free of formaldehyde and found that they still emit  this dangerous chemical.  Cali is the exception and the only one he sells.

Question from Michayla

Hi there! I’m pregnant and we’re wanting to purchase our mattress asap since it will take a month or so to get here once we do. We are looking at the OMI Rossa mattress which is GOLS and greenguard certified. It does have coils and latex. I know Debra has recommended oMI before, but want to make sure these two things are still okay to use. Thank you.

Is this a crib mattress or one for you?

My top recommendation for mattresses is Naturpedic.  They have a GOTS-certified factory which ensures that no harmful chemicals are used at any stage of production.  For adults, they have a GOLS certified latex mattress without coils, if that is your preference.

OMi is also a very good, safe mattress.

Question from  Luuk

I am getting an induction stove.  What, other than cast iron, pots do you recommend?

There are stainless steel pots that  are made of 430 grade stainless steel which can be used on induction stoves.  The brands made with this steel are noted in my cookware guide.

You can also use carbon steel.

Question from Janet

Question from  Liz

I am not supposed to wear a face mask due to a serious medical condition, but my doctor won’t let me in the office without one (not to mention the grocery store). Have you found any masks made with safe material that are easy to breath in? I’ve heard surgical masks are the easiest to breath in (though not designed for protection from viruses) but I’ve read that even some of those are made with toxic materials, plus they used to be restricted to medical professionals. A friend suggested a face shield since they are easier to breath in, but I imagine the plastic in those is toxic.

If you have any research on this, I’d much appreciate hearing it!

Question from Pia

are coffee pods safe to use?
also what is the safest coffee maker ?

Most pods are made of plastic and heating plastic increases leaching of chemicals.  You can read more here about plastic toxicity.  There are some pods now that claim to be plastic-free and are made of plant-based “biomaterials”.  These are better for the environment and probably less toxic than plastic but we really don’t know exactly what is in them.  Using loose, organic beans is a safer bet.

I may receive commissions from purchases made through links in this article including Amazon Affiliates. 

Choosing safe cookware is an important part of creating a non-toxic, healthy home.  After all, cookware comes in contact with the food we eat, often for prolonged periods of time.  High temperatures, which our cookware is subject to, can increase migration of toxics and toxins from the cookware and into our food.  Also, fumes from the cookware can be inhaled while we cook.  So, what are the best types of cookware to use and what should be avoided?

This guide will answer those questions and tell you what brands fall into each category.  Unfortunately, there is no cookware material that is perfect and without issue.  It’s best to select several different types of safer cookware and rotate them.  That way, you will reduce exposures from any one type of material.

I’ve rated each category with a letter grade using the following criteria:

1. Products are well tested by independent organizations and ingredients are well disclosed and understood.
2. Products are tested by independent organizations but may contain additives that are not well disclosed.
3. Products have limited testing and additives that are not well disclosed.
4. Products are not well tested and have ingredients with known health concerns and/or ingredients whose health effects are not yet understood.
5. Products are known to release materials with known health concerns.

There are not currently any categories with a grade of “B”.  Some products that are graded “C” could move up to a “B” with more thorough testing.

Grade: A

Glass

Glass has been used for centuries to store food and is generally considered to be the safest material for this purpose.  Concerns have been raised recently in blog forums about the presence of lead in glass, including glass cookware. Lead is not typically added to glass as an ingredient, except for leaded crystal which should be avoided.  However, lead is everywhere in the environment and any raw material is likely to have some degree of lead contamination.

So, is there lead in glass cookware and does it leach into food?

Glass cookware is made from glass ceramic, which has the same chemical composition as glass but is treated with heat to crystallize the glass.  An extensive study done on several types of glassware, including glass ceramic, tested products under several testing conditions including acidic solutions cooked for long periods of time.  The glass ceramic products had no detectable levels of lead under any test conditions.  You can read more here about the study and other types of tested glassware.  Glass ceramic is non-porous so it does not leach or react with acidic foods.

Look for glass cookware and bakeware that meets or exceeds California Proposition 65 standards for lead and cadmium for extra assurance.

Glass ceramic cookware is among the healthiest options but it is not without risk.  Shattering is a concern with any glass cookware but glass ceramic is more tolerant of temperature changes and therefore less likely to shatter.  Borosilicate glass is less likely to shatter than soda lime glass.  All glass cookware should be used with caution and it’s important to carefully follow manufacturer directions.

Glass Cookware Brands

Luminarc (glass ceramic)

Visions (glass ceramic)

Glass Bakeware Brands

Anchor Hocking (soda lime glass)

Arcuisine by International Cookware (borosilicate glass)

Corningware (glass ceramic). Not all Corningware is glass ceramic.  Much of it is stoneware.

Libbey (soda lime glass)

Pyrex (soda-lime glass)

Simax Glassware (borosilicate glass)

Cast Iron

Cast iron is made with a blend of iron and steel and cast in a sand mold.  While there may be other proprietary ingredients added, lead and cadmium are not found in untreated cast iron.  Iron is known to leach into food in significant amounts, often increasing with acidic foods and longer cooking duration.  A study by the American Dietetic Foundation found that iron content in spaghetti sauce increased by 945% while that in cornbread increased 28%.  For many, the addition of iron to food is viewed as a health benefit because iron deficiency is not uncommon in the U.S.  Read more here about how much iron is recommended.  Those with a known excess of iron may need to avoid cooking with cast iron.

Cast Iron needs to be regularly seasoned with oil to maintain a relatively non-stick finish and protect against rust.  This raises questions about what type of oil to use and if using less-healthy oils creates a risk of its own.  Some brands sell cookware pre-seasoned with oil.  The types of oil vary by brand with some using healthier oils than others.  Since the oil used for pre-seasoning is a small amount and a one-time application, I am more concerned about what oil is used to continually maintain the utensils over time.  Some argue that high-smoke point oils are best because when oils are heated above their smoke point, they degrade and give off byproducts that are thought to be carcinogenic.  Coconut, avocado, and rice bran oil have high-smoke points.  Flaxseed oil is sometimes used because it is a drying oil and creates a durable finish but it has a low smoke point and can become rancid over time.

Beware, if a cast iron product does not need to be seasoned it likely has a non-stick coating.  Keep reading to understand concerns about non-stick coatings.

Cast Iron Cookware Brands:

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron (preseasoned with soybean oil)

Field Company (preseasoned with organic grapeseed oil)

Finex (preseasoned with organic, non-GMO, flaxseed oil)

Cast Iron Bakeware Brands:

Lodge Cast Iron Muffin Pans (preseasoned with soybean oil)

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is similar to cast iron except is has a slightly higher iron content.  Carbon steel typically is comprised of about 99% iron and 1% steel, while cast iron typically has 97-98% iron and 2-3% steel.  The different composition allows carbon steel to be lighter than cast iron.  It also needs to be regularly seasoned with oil.

If a carbon steel product does not need to be seasoned it likely has a non-stick coating.  Keep reading to understand concerns about non-stick coatings.

Carbon Steel Cookware Brands:

Lodge Carbon Steel (preseasoned with soybean oil)

Matfer Bourgeat (not preseasoned)

US-ION Wrought Iron (preseasoned with rice bran oil)

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel can be a safe type of cookware if you use it under certain conditions.  Stainless steel is known to leach nickel and chromium into food.   Nickel is an essential micronutrient for humans but too much can result in the development of dermatitis.  Chromium, a trace mineral in the human diet, is less of a health concern than nickel but can also cause dermatitis.   Leaching can occur at different levels depending on the acidity of the food being cooked, the amount of time the food is in contact with the cookware and the age of the cookware.¹  Studies show that the amount of nickel and chromium that leaches into food is generally below recommended limits.  Stainless steel is exempt from California Proposition 65 testing because OEHHA has concluded exposure from metal alloys to be minimal and below thresholds required for warnings.²

However, if you have a known or suspected nickel or chromium sensitivity it may be best to avoid all stainless steel.

Read more here about nickel and chromium levels from cooking with stainless steel and possible health effects.

You can follow these steps to minimize nickel and chromium exposure:

• Avoid cooking highly acidic foods for long cooking durations. (consider cooking chili or tomato sauce in a glass stock pot.)
• Wash new stainless steel before use and follow this process before using: Cook a solution of 50% vinegar and 50% water for a 2 hour period and discard the solution.  Repeat this process 6 times.³  Studies show that stainless steel leaches significantly more nickel and chromium when it is new and levels off after following this process.⁴
• Consider products that use 430 grade stainless steel (18/0) which contains only trace amounts of nickel. The tradeoff is 430 stainless steel has a little less stain and corrosion resistance than stainless steel made with nickel and requires a little extra care.  Be sure to follow manufacturer directions for use and maintenance.  Also, make sure that the inner layer that touches the food is 430 steel.  Some products claim to be made of 430 steel but only use it on the outer layer that touches the stove so that it can be used with induction cooktops.

Stainless steel is not considered a good conductor of heat so many stainless steel pots and pans have a core layer of aluminum or copper.  This means that a layer of aluminum or copper is sandwiched between layers of stainless steel and do not come in contact with food.  However, if you have a pot or pan with a scratch deep enough to expose the core, you should replace it out of caution.  One manufacturer confirmed their top layer of steel is .015” thick.  That is about the thickness of an average fingernail. It’s not very thick, but it is thick enough that you would be able to feel a groove if you ran your finger over it.  If the core is copper you would be able to see the core if exposed through a scratch.  Keep in mind though, that leaching is partly dependent of the surface area of the material.  A very small amount of the core material would be exposed from a deep scratch, limiting the amount of leaching.

Make sure you are buying uncoated stainless steel.  Some of these brands also sell non-stick coated products.

Stainless Steel Cookware Brands: 

All Clad D3  (430 outer layer, aluminum core, 304 inner layer)

Cutco (430 outer layer, aluminum core, 304 inner layer)

Homi Chef (430 inner and outer layer and aluminum core)

Made In uncoated stainless (430 outer layer, aluminum core, 304 inner layer)

Nöni (solid ferritic stainless steel)

Stainless Steel Bakeware Brands:

All Clad D3 (18/10 stainless steel with aluminum core)

HKJ Chef (18/10 stainless steel)

Xtrema

This is the only ceramic cookware I recommend.  Xtrema pots and pans are 100% ceramic, made only from natural minerals, clay and water. No metals are added as ingredients in this ceramic cookware. Because lead is everywhere in the environment and any raw material is likely to have some degree of lead contamination, it is possible that trace amounts could be present.  However, every shipment is tested by government-regulated laboratories to ensure that lead, cadmium and other heavy metals do not leach into food.  All testing results, which meet California Proposition 65 limits are posted on their website.

I recommend Xtrema because of the company’s transparency and commitment to producing products that are healthy for humans and for the environment.  The extremely hard ceramic cooking surface can’t be scratched by metal utensils or steel wool and doesn’t wear off. NOTE: This cookware is fairly heavy and comparable to the weight of cast iron.  It is not entirely non-stick but is fairly easy to clean.

Xtrema

Grade: C

Porcelain Enamel

This is a particularly challenging category to evaluate because enamels differ in how they are formulated, applied and fired.  Most companies consider their formulas and processes to be proprietary and do not disclose them.  Porcelain enamel cookware is made primarily of silica sand, soda ash borax and cobalt oxide that are melted together, ground into a powder, then applied to metal cookware and fired at high temperatures.  Metals such as cobalt, antimony, arsenic or nickel may be added to improve adherence to the metal base.  Cadmium is sometimes used to make bright exterior colors such as red, yellow and orange.  Additional substances can be added for functionality including Teflon.

There is little research available on migration of heavy metals from porcelain enamel.  Additionally, California Proposition 65 only sets migration limits for lead and cadmium in cookware so it doesn’t tell you about levels of other heavy metals or toxicants.

In 2018, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) established a new standard for vitreous and porcelain enamels that sets migration limits for 16 heavy metals.  The standard was set because of evidence of the presence of metals including aluminum, lead, cadmium, cobalt and nickel.  The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment studied enameled grill grates and found high levels of aluminum, antimony, arsenic and nickel.⁵ The new ISO standard is voluntary, so manufacturers are not required to meet it, but it will be helpful to identify if there are safer porcelain enameled products.  I have not yet found any brands that meet the new standard but if I find any particular brands, I will identify them here.

Porcelain Enamel Brands:

Graniteware

Le Creuset Enamel Cast Iron and Enamel on Steel

Lodge Enameled Cast Iron

Staub Cast Iron

Ceramic Stoneware

Like porcelain enamel, ceramic stoneware is hard to evaluate because glazes differ in how they are formulated, applied and fired.  Unlike porcelain enamel, metals are not needed to adhere ceramic glaze to its base.  However, they may include other additives.  For example, formulas may include titanium dioxide to make white interior glazes or aluminum oxide to stiffen the glaze.

Manufacturers that do not add lead or cadmium as an ingredient to their products and provide evidence that they meet California Proposition 65 migration levels are less of a concern, but risks remain about other unknown and untested substances.

Be particularly cautious of stoneware that is not made by a reputable company.  A study of ceramics from Nigeria found high levels of leaching lead, cadmium, arsenic, and chromium.

Ceramic Stoneware Brands:

Le Creuset Stoneware

Lodge Stoneware

Staub Ceramics

Anodized Aluminum

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal into a corrosion-resistant finish.  This keeps the aluminum from leaching but the finish may degrade over time.  Unfortunately, I was not able to find any research that measures leaching from anodized aluminum.  All studies found are on untreated aluminum. Also, California Proposition 65 does not require testing for aluminum.  Aluminum cookware that is anodized should minimize leaching but without evidence I don’t recommend it.

Silicone bakeware

Silicones are considered by some health organizations to be safe.  Health Canada states, “There are no known health hazards associated with use of silicone cookware. Silicone rubber does not react with food or beverages or produce any hazardous fumes.”⁶

However, some studies are finding that silicones are not completely insert and can release certain toxic substances at low level.  Studies are still limited and most focus on a type of siloxane group, cyclic volatile methyl siloxanes (cVMS), which are by-products of silicone manufacturing.  The health effects of cVMS are debated but in 2018 the European Chemicals Agency added 3 (D4, D5, and D6) to their Candidate List of substances that may have serious effects on human health and the environment.

Some studies are finding that silicone bakeware can leach cVMS into food, particularly at high temperature (above 300°) and into high fat food.  For example, migration into meatloaf was higher than into cake.^7,8 Greater migration was found in new, unwashed molds.

Silicones, like plastics, can include a mix of chemical additives, fillers, and raw material impurities.  There are few studies that focus on the migration or health effects of these potentially harmful ingredients.  You can read more here about the toxicity of silicone.

Grade:  D

Non-stick Cookware with Ceramic Coating

Many new, non-stick cookware products made with ceramic coatings claim they are non-toxic and a safer alternative to non-stick cookware with PTFE or PFOA coatings.  This type of cookware is unproven as a truly safe alternative and there are multiple areas of concern.

Nanoparticles

Ceramic or “sol-gel” coatings usually contain ceramic nanoparticles that are applied in a thin coat to the surface of the cookware.⁹   Some use titanium dioxide nanoparticles which according to this study migrate into food, particularly after the coating is scratched from normal use.  Chronic exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles has been linked to immune disruption and precancerous lesions in the gut.¹⁰  The use of nanoparticles in food contact materials is not yet well studied and more research is needed.

Degradation 

According to a major supplier of all types of coatings, the best ceramic coatings last just 15% as long as PTFE-based coatings.¹¹ Where does the coating go?  I think it’s safe to assume that the coating ends up in your food.

Unknown Additives

Ceramic coating formulations can be combined with epoxies, acrylics, or alkyds to give them additional functionality.¹²  Many manufactures will not release the ingredients in their coatings because they consider them proprietary.  Some hybrid ceramic coatings also contain PTFE.

Limited Regulation 

Cookware for noncommercial use is exempt from FDA regulation.  That means that one can’t assume that ingredients in cookware that come in contact with food have been tested and proven safe.^{13, 14}  The FDA does stipulate that if non-stick coatings are found to “adulterate food with unsafe substances” immediate action will be taken.  That’s too little too late.  While California Proposition 65 provides stringent regulations for lead and cadmium in cookware it does not currently regulate nanoparticles, PTFE, aluminum, non- airborne titanium dioxide, nor other cookware ingredients of concern.¹⁵

It’s possible that there are some safer options within this category and I will update the guide accordingly should I learn of them.

Non-Stick Ceramic Coating Brands:

Caraway

GreenLife

Greenpan

Gotham Steel

Healthy Legend

Our Place Always Pan

Zwilling J Henckels Spirit Cookware

Non-Stick Cookware with PTFE Coating

PTFE is one of 3000 poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) used in consumer products.  PFAS chemicals are known as “forever chemicals” because they are persistent in the environment and in our bodies.  Most people looking to avoid toxins know not to use non-stick pots and pans because coatings with PTFE, when heated to high temperatures, can release fumes that coat the lungs and can cause fluoropolymer fever, also known as Teflon flu.  PFOA, another PFAS chemical, was used in the past to manufacture PTFE and was sometimes found as a contaminant in products made with the chemical.  PFOA is considered a toxic substance by the EPA and has been linked to adverse effects including cancer, birth defects and liver damage.  Fortunately, most reputable companies no longer manufacture PTFE using PFOA.

However, new studies by the FDA have found that the short chain PFAS chemicals used to replace PFOA are much more toxic than previously thought.¹⁶  Additionally, PTFE which is thought by some health experts to be harmless because it is inert, is considered a moderate health concern by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) because it hasn’t been studied.

Any pan that claims to have a non-stick coating is likely either PTFE based or ceramic based and should be avoided.

Non-Stick Cookware with PTFE Coating Brands:

All-Clad Non-Stick

Calphalon Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick

Made in Non-Stick Cookware

Scanpan

Tramontina

Grade:  F

Untreated Aluminum

Most aluminum cookware is either anodized or coated with a non-stick surface.  It is well established that untreated aluminum leaches into food.  One study found aluminum leaching during conditions comparable to cooking acidic foods for long periods that were 6 times the recommended level.  Aluminum is the third most prevalent element in the earth’s crust.  It is not an essential element for humans but because of its ubiquity it accumulates in the human body mainly through food.  It’s important to eliminate unnecessary sources. Aluminum has an effect on many biological processes and is linked to many adverse health effects including neurotoxicity. Though hotly debated, high levels of aluminum have been linked to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.¹⁷

Unlined Copper

Most copper cookware is lined with stainless steel.  Copper cookware lined with stainless steel should have the same safety profile as stainless steel cookware.

The FDA warns against cooking with unlined copper.  Copper is an essential nutrient for the human body but too much can be toxic.  Excess copper can cause nausea and vomiting and very high doses can cause liver and kidney damage.¹⁸

My Thoughts on XRF Testing

There are bloggers who use XRF equipment to test for lead in consumer products including cookware.  XRF instruments test for lead content, while California Proposition 65 and federal regulations (in the U.S., Canada, EU, and others) use laboratory methods that test for leaching.  Leach testing uses acidic solutions to see if any heavy metals that may be added or present in raw materials are extractable, meaning they can leach out of cookware and into food.  Some bloggers have written about lead content (which says nothing about leaching) in Xtrema, Visions glass cookware, porcelain enameled cookware and others.  I personally base my recommendations on leach testing and specifically look for California Prop 65 because it has the most stringent lead leaching limits.  Because there is no safe level of lead, I applaud these bloggers efforts and desire to avoid out of caution anything with lead content whether or not it leaches out into food.  But, in this case there is an abundance of independent research that shows Xtrema and Visions do not leach into food. And there are few safe alternatives.  You could choose to use stainless steel and cast iron exclusively but you would be exposed to greater amounts of nickel and iron.  If that seems like a better alternative for you, that’s fine.  My preference is to rotate a larger number of cookware materials to limit any one exposure. I have laid out the facts so that you can make the choice that is right for you and your family.

A final note… I sent my own Xtrema pot, which I have used for years and regularly subjected to steel wool scrubbers and dishwashing, to an independent lab to be tested for lead because I have read (unsubstantiated) claims that leaching from Xtrema increases over time even if it doesn’t leach at the time of testing. Even though this was tested at a lab I’m not claiming the result is significant because it is just one sample.  I did it simply to satisfy my own curiosity.  The results below show no detectable levels of lead.

Xtrema Lab Test

Here is what I use in my own home:

Xtrema large skillet.  This is a workhorse in my kitchen.

Xtrema small and large saucepans.  I use these for pasta and sauces, with the exception of acidic foods.

Visions ceramic glass Dutch oven.  This replaced the Le Creuset I used for years.  I use this to make highly acidic foods that require long cooking times like chili and tomato sauce.  I have to admit it makes me a little nervous cooking with glass and I worry about shattering but I’m getting used to it.

Cast iron muffin pans.  These replaced my silicone muffin pans that I had used for years.

Borosilicate glass loaf pan.  I use these for meatloaf and breads.

Pyrex soda lime glass baking pans.

Stainless Steel cookie trays and sheet pans

430 Stainless Steel small skillet.  This is nickel-free stainless steel.  I use this small skillet for eggs.

A reader recently asked me to look into a playground mulch product to determine its toxicity.  I’d like to share the results with you because I think it will be helpful to anyone trying to decide what material to use for their outdoor playsets but also because it is a good example of how important it is to look beyond marketing claims and understand what regulations do and do not address.

The product is described as a virgin rubber mulch product that contains no phthalates, heavy metals or VOCs.  It meets California indoor air standards.  The company distinguishes its product from tire-derived rubber (TDR) that is often used on playgrounds and turf fields and has been found to emit dangerous levels of chemicals as well lead.

The company is unable to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) because it is made from trimmings and unused material from children’s safety tile flooring.  Their product is a combination of products from many different manufacturers.

They were able to provide testing that showed that the test sample had:

• No detectable levels of phthalates. This is not surprising because while phthalates were widely used in flooring, manufacturers have been eliminating them.
• Lead detected at 3ppm which is well below California’s restriction of <80ppm for playground mulch but it is not zero.

There was no testing done for Total VOCs (TVOC) but if the product meets California Section 01350 it must have TVOC less than or equal to 0.5mg/m³.

Here are my concerns that this product, while perhaps not as bad a tire-derived rubber, has some of the same issues:

VOCs

• A  2010 study by California’s Department of Public Health (CDPH) titled Tire-Derived Rubber (TDR) Flooring Chemical Emissions Study found:

• • Both TDR and new rubber (NR) flooring products still emit a myriad of VOC chemicals, and their release is not uniform among the different products. A minority of products released excessive amounts of chemicals; and
  • Xylene, butylated hydroxytoluene, ethylbenzene, toluene, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde were found in a range of products. Benzene and carbon disulfide were above the health threshold in one or two samples… Some of the identified chemicals do not yet have health-based standards, making their health impacts difficult to assess.

Even if the product meets California Standards, it is likely emitting at least some of the above chemicals, just at a level that meets the standard.  Because this will be outdoors, the risk is somewhat mitigated (although it’s still not good for the environment!).

Lead

There is a level of lead, it is simply below the standard allowed.  California has a restriction of 80ppm for rubber mulch used on playgrounds.  While no level of lead is safe, some soil can contain levels of lead that are higher.  The EPA considers 400ppm in soil acceptable.  But, again, no level is safe.

The limitations of the testing provided is that it is unclear how much of the finished product is actually tested.  Because the product is a combination of materials from many manufacturers, it is not known if the test covers products from every supplier or is it a test of just one or a few.  Given the potential problems with new virgin rubber it is a concern.

Overall, this product is likely much less toxic than tire-derived rubber mulch.  It does, however, have low levels of lead and VOCs.  The VOCs will be mitigated because it will be outdoors.  While this is a less toxic product, I would still opt for natural, untreated wood mulch.

Take a look at my latest Sunscreen Product Review.

Photo by Taylor Grote on Unsplash

Last week I wrote about the toxicity of silicone and revealed that while research is still limited, studies show that silicone does leach potentially harmful chemicals into food, particularly at temperatures above 300°.  Following the precautionary principle, I recommend avoiding cooking and baking with silicone.

What Do I Buy to Replace my Silicone Bakeware?

I have to admit, I will miss my silicone muffin pan.  Silicone has become so popular because it is non-stick and is easy to clean.  The safer options aren’t non-stick but that’s a tradeoff I’m willing to make.  Here are some options:

Stainless Steel

Unless you are sensitive to nickel, stainless steel is a safe alternative.  Just make sure the stainless steel is not coated or treated.  You can find stainless steel cookie sheets, muffin pans, and baking pans.

18/0 stainless steel does not contain nickel and may be an acceptable option for those sensitive to nickel.  If you have a nickel allergy, check with your doctor before using.  Here is a cookie sheet made from 18/0 stainless steel with no coating.

Glass

Tempered glass, such as Pyrex brand, is a safe choice.  You can find glass loaf pans, baking dishes, and pie plates.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is generally a safe choice.  Cast iron will release iron which has many important functions in the human body.  You can, however, get too much iron.  If you use cast iron, you may want to rotate it with other types of cookware to avoid getting too much iron.  Here is a Lodge cast iron muffin pan.

Are Oven-Safe Paper Baking Products Safe to Use?

Paper is not inherently non-stick so most paper bakeware is coated.  Parchment paper is usually coated with silicone or Quinlon, which is a chemical containing the heavy metal chromium.  I have not found any studies that assess the migration of Quinlon into food so out of caution I would avoid it.

Oven-safe paper bakeware is usually lined with silicone or plastic.  While I wasn’t able to find any studies that looked specifically at leaching from paper bakeware, I see no reason to assume it would be any safer than silicone bakeware.  Out of caution, I would avoid it too.  Sorry!

Should I use my Silicone Bakeware?

This is a personal consideration.  The research on silicone bakeware is limited but there is evidence that leaching into food does occur.  The only piece of silicone bakeware that I have is a muffin pan and I will be replacing that with a Lodge cast iron pan.

Another consideration is how often you use your silicone bakeware.  If you are regularly using it I would recommend replacing it with a safer option.  If you use one piece very infrequently the overall exposure is much less and you might consider continuing to use it.  Find the balance that works for you.

Silicones are made from silicon, a naturally-occurring element that is abundant in sand.  However, in order to make silicon available for industrial processes, it’s heated to very high temperatures and reacted with fossil-fuel derived hydrocarbons.¹ This may explain why some people who are sensitive to petrochemicals may react to silicones.

In order to make silicones, silicon is turned into siloxane, through an industrial process. There are a number of different siloxanes.  Siloxanes are then bound together into silicones.

Is Silicone Safe?

Silicones are generally considered safe.  Health Canada states, “There are no known health hazards associated with use of silicone cookware. Silicone rubber does not react with food or beverages, or produce any hazardous fumes.”²

However, some studies are finding that silicones are not completely insert and can release certain toxic substances at low level.  Studies are still limited and most focus on a type of siloxane group, cyclic volatile methyl siloxanes (cVMS), which are by-products of silicone manufacturing.  The health effects of cVMS are debated but in 2018 the European Chemicals Agency added 3 cVMS (D4, D5, and D6) to their Candidate List of substances that may have serious effects on human health and the environment.

There are few studies that focus on the effects of chemical additives, raw material impurities or fillers that may be present in various silicone products.

Does Silicone Leach into Food and Drink?

Some studies are finding that silicone bakeware can leach into food, particularly at high temperature (above 300°) and into high fat food.  For example, migration into meatloaf was higher than into cake.^3,4 Greater migration was found in new, unwashed molds.

One study found that silicone baby bottle nipples do not leach VMS into milk or infant formula after 6 hours.^5. However, a particularly alarming study from 2012 of silicone baby bottles found the presence of phthalates and aldehydes as well as substances related to printing ink.⁶ A 2016 study similarly found phthalate migrations from silicone baby bottles.⁷  The studies did not assess the migration levels and associated health risks.  Further research is needed.

Do Silicones Offgas?

Siloxanes can become gaseous when heated. In one study, 4 of 14 silicone baking molds exceeded Germany’s indoor guide level for cVMS but the health hazard guide level was not exceeded.⁸

Additionally, a possible oxidation product is formaldehyde.⁹ Studies of industrial-use silicone have found formaldehyde release at very high temperatures but it is not clear if formaldehyde also releases from silicone consumer products when heated.

Do All Silicones Have the Same Level of Toxicity?

Silicones, like plastics, can include a mix of chemical additives, fillers, and raw material impurities.  In general, however, silicones have fewer chemical additives than plastics.

Food-grade silicones that are regulated by the FDA should not contain fillers.  Silicone should not change color when it is twisted.  If you twist or pinch the silicone and white shows through, the product contains a filler.  Also, silicone should not crack or lose elasticity.  These conditions indicate the inclusion of fillers in the silicone.

Not all silicone is the same and it is not possible without testing to determine exactly what is in any silicone product.  There are hundreds of silicones with hundreds of different formulas. Some, like colorful cookware, may contain various fillers and contaminants that are completely unknown to consumers.

The Bottom Line

There is enough scientific evidence to suggest that silicone is not the totally safe and natural material that some marketers claim it to be.  But it is generally safe under many conditions and a safer alternative to most plastics.

Here are some guidelines to safely use silicone products.

1. Do not heat silicone products above 300°.
2. Always wash silicone products before use with food or beverages.
3. If using silicone baby bottles or nipples, make sure they are phthalate-free.*
4. Choose 100% pure food-grade or medical-grade silicone.
5. Silicone that is not heated and does not come in contact with food, such as lids, gaskets, bibs, and placemats likely pose no health risk.

*I will look further into the safest choices for baby bottles and nipples.

Sources:

1. https://lifewithoutplastic.com/silicone/
2. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/household-products/safe-use-cookware.html
3. Ruediger Helling, Anja Mieth, Stefan Altmann, Thomas Joachim Simat. Determination of the overall migration from silicone baking moulds into simulants and food using 1H-NMR techniques. Food Additives and Contaminants, 2009, 26 (03), pp.395-407. 10.1080/02652030802520852 . hal-00577342
4. Helling R, Kutschbach K, Joachim Simat T. Migration behaviour of silicone moulds in contact with different foodstuffs.Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess. 2010;27(3):396-405. doi:10.1080/19440040903341869
5. Zhang K, Wong JW, Begley TH, Hayward DG, Limm W. Determination of siloxanes in silicone products and potential migration to milk, formula and liquid simulants. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess. 2012;29(8):1311-1321. doi:10.1080/19440049.2012.684891
6. Simoneau, Catherine & Van den Eede, Liza & Valzacchi, Sandro. (2012). Identification and quantification of migration of chemicals from plastics baby bottles used as substitutes for polycarbonate. Food additives & contaminants. Part A, Chemistry, analysis, control, exposure & risk assessment. 29. 469-80. 10.1080/19440049.2011.644588.
7. Ksenia Groh, Health Risks of BPA-Free Baby Bottles. Food Packaging Forum, Sept. 9, 2016.
8. Hermann Fromme, Matthias Witte, Ludwig Fembacher, Ludwig Gruber, Tanja Hagl, Sonja Smolic, Dominik Fiedler, Marina Sysoltseva, Wolfgang Schober. Siloxane in baking moulds, emission to indoor air and migration to food during baking with an electric oven.  Environment International, 2019, 126, pp.145-151.  1016/j.envint.2019.01.081
9. Birgit Geueke, Dossier – Silicones.  Food Packaging Forum. May, 2015, DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.33522

Polyethylene is the most widely produced commodity plastic and it is primarily used for packaging.  Some common forms of polyethylene are:

Low-density polyethylene

LDPE is a flexible material that is used in food storage bags, trash and grocery bags, toys, and housewares. The plastic recycling code of LDPE is #4.¹

High-density polyethylene

HDPE has high strength and moderate stiffness.  It has a higher melting point than LDPE and can be sterilized.  It is used in bottles for milk and household cleaners, food storage bags, grocery bags, appliance housing and toys.  The plastic recycling code of HDPE is #2.²

Is Polyethylene Safe?

Polyethylene is considered one of the safest plastics.

Clean Production Action named polyethylene, along with polypropylene, one of the “most benign” plastics in their Plastics Scorecard, which evaluates the hazardous effects of various plastics.

According to its Safety Data Sheet, polyethylene has not been found to be carcinogenic by several safety organizations including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Not all polyethylene, however, is created equal.  Plastics are often made with fillers, plasticizers, and additives to enhance their functionality.³ A single plastic product can contain dozens of added chemicals.  Polyethylene is less likely than many other plastics to contain fillers, plasticizers and additives but they may still be present.  Unfortunately, without better disclosure from manufactures about the content of specific plastic materials we can only speak about toxicity and safety in general terms.

Does Polyethylene Offgas?

Polyethylene does offgas but generally at a much lower rate than more toxic plastics such as PVC and polystyrene.⁴

Does Polyethylene Leach into Food and Drink?

While polyethylene is relatively stable, and it is generally considered a safer plastic for food and drink, it has also been shown to leach plastic additives.   In one study, pure polyethylene resin did not leach any endocrine disrupting chemicals but common food containers made with polyethylene did leach.⁵ Leaching from plastic food containers is increased with heat, duration of contact, and acidity of the food or drink.  So, consider how the item is being used and how you will be exposed to it. For example, a food storage bad made of polyethylene that is used to carry a snack of pretzels is less likely to leach than the same bag used to store hot tomato soup.

Avoiding any plastic is ideal because it not only poses risk to human health but it is harmful to the environment.  But, if you must use products made with polyethylene, the risk of exposure is probably low.

Sources

¹The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Polyethylene.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 15 Nov. 2019, www.britannica.com/science/polyethylene.

² The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Polyethylene.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 15 Nov. 2019, www.britannica.com/science/polyethylen

³John N. Hahladakis, Costas A. Velis, Roland Weber, Eleni Iacovidou, Phil Purnell.  An overview of chemical additives present in plastics: Migration, release, fate and environmental impact during their use, disposal and recycling.  Journal of Hazardous Materials. 2018; volume 344; pages 179-199.  License.

⁴Even M, Girard M, Rich A, Hutzler C and Luch A (2019) Emissions of VOCs From Polymer-Based Consumer Products: From Emission Data of Real Samples to the Assessment of Inhalation Exposure. Front. Public Health 7:202. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00202

⁵John N. Hahladakis, Costas A. Velis, Roland Weber, Eleni Iacovidou, Phil Purnell.  An overview of chemical additives present in plastics: Migration, release, fate and environmental impact during their use, disposal and recycling.  Journal of Hazardous Materials. 2018; volume 344; pages 179-199.  License.

Polypropylene is the second-most widely produced commodity plastic (after polyethylene) and it is often used in packaging and labeling.

Polypropylene is very similar to polyethylene but has greater resistance to heat, which is why it is often used for food packaging and food storage bags and containers.

Is Polypropylene Safe?

Polypropylene is considered one of the safest plastics.

Clean Production Action named polypropylene, along with polyethylene, one of the “most benign” plastics in their Plastics Scorecard, which evaluates the hazardous effects of various plastics.

According to its Safety Data Sheet, polypropylene has not been found to be carcinogenic by several safety organizations including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Not all polypropylene, however, is created equal.  Plastics are often made with fillers, plasticizers, and additives to enhance their functionality.^1. A single plastic product can contain dozens of added chemicals.  Polypropylene is less likely than many other plastics to contain fillers, plasticizers and additives but they may still be present.  Unfortunately, without better disclosure from manufactures about the content of specific plastic materials we can only speak about toxicity and safety in general terms.

Does Polypropylene Offgas?

Polypropylene, sometimes referred to as Olefin, does offgas but generally at a much lower rate than more toxic plastics such as PVC and polystyrene.²

It is often used to make medical equipment and to store museum collections because of its relatively low level of emissions.

Does Polypropylene Leach into Food and Drink?

While polypropylene is relatively stable, and it is generally considered a safer plastic for food and drink, it has also been shown to leach plastic additives.   In one study, pure polypropylene resin did not leach any endocrine disrupting chemicals but common food containers made with polypropylene did.³  Leaching from plastic food containers is increased with heat, duration of contact, and acidity of the food or drink.  So, consider how the item is being used and how you will be exposed to it. For example, a water bottle made of polypropylene that has only brief contact with the water is less likely to leach than a container used to store hot tomato soup.

Avoiding any plastic is ideal because it not only poses risk to human health but it is harmful to the environment.  But, if you must use products made with polypropylene, the risk of exposure is probably low.

Sources

¹John N. Hahladakis, Costas A. Velis, Roland Weber, Eleni Iacovidou, Phil Purnell.  An overview of chemical additives present in plastics: Migration, release, fate and environmental impact during their use, disposal and recycling.  Journal of Hazardous Materials. 2018; volume 344; pages 179-199.  License.

²Even M, Girard M, Rich A, Hutzler C and Luch A (2019) Emissions of VOCs From Polymer-Based Consumer Products: From Emission Data of Real Samples to the Assessment of Inhalation Exposure. Front. Public Health 7:202. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00202

³John N. Hahladakis, Costas A. Velis, Roland Weber, Eleni Iacovidou, Phil Purnell.  An overview of chemical additives present in plastics: Migration, release, fate and environmental impact during their use, disposal and recycling.  Journal of Hazardous Materials. 2018; volume 344; pages 179-199.  License.; McDonald GR, Hudson AL, Dunn SM, et al. Bioactive contaminants leach from disposable laboratory plasticware. Science. 2008;322(5903):917. doi:10.1126/science.1162395

Photo by Kaufmann Mercantile on Unsplash

I regularly see healthy-living experts touting the use of houseplants to clean indoor air.  Unfortunately, most research does not support this claim.  I have a lot of plants in my home because I appreciate their aesthetic value.  I hope that they contribute some small benefit to my home’s air quality but I don’t rely on them to do the job.  Let’s look at the facts to see if there are benefits and perhaps even risks to filling your home with potted plants.

The idea that plants are effective at removing VOCs from indoor air stems from a 1989 NASA study that tested different types of houseplants in a sealed chamber.  The testing methodology was designed to simulate the small, air-tight environment of a space capsule.  The study found that under these conditions, some plant types were particularly effective at removing VOCs including formaldehyde and benzene.

Subsequent studies have shown that the results do not translate to a typical house.  The size of a house and the amount of ventilation play a big role in the how much impact a plant will have on air quality.  A 1991 EPA review of the NASA study determined that a typical house would require 680 plants to yield the same results.  A 2019 review of 30 years of research determined that it would take 10 to 1000 plants per square meter of floor space to provide more effective cleaning power than opening a couple of windows.

If you do choose to have houseplants in your home make sure you are not adding VOC pollution.

• Use untreated metal, clay or ceramic pots.

One study found that 11 different volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) were emitted into the air from plastic pots.

• Buy organic plants, grown without pesticides.

Pesticides used in the plant production process can have volatile emissions.

• Make sure your plants are not a source of mold.

Regularly check the soil for signs of mold.

If you see a recommendation to use houseplants to clean your air make sure you understand the source behind the recommendation and determine if this is new data that factors in a typical home environment or if it is simply advice based on outdated research.

Photo by Theme Photos on Unsplash

A reader submitted a question to Toxic Free Q&A about how to minimize lingering odor from zero-VOC paint.  Andy Pace, from The Green Design Center, wrote in with a comment that was so helpful I want to share it with everyone.

According to Andy, “Lingering odor is almost always caused by moisture trapped in the coatings. As the moisture comes out, it carries with it the chemical footprint of where it was, which usually means, a distinct aroma of resins and solvents. It’s true that the BM Regal is zero-VOC, but the biggest reason why the Behr paint is problematic may have to do with the color. Most people apply dark colors way too heavy…trying to get a nice thick coat so it appears to cover well. This is counterproductive. Water based paint needs to go on very thin in order to cure properly. Thick coats will cause lingering odors and a softer film. So, dark colors will be more prone to long lasting odors than will off white colors, no matter the product line. At this point, adding another layer or two of product will only prolong the situation. Get a large fan and direct it towards the offending surface. This will help wick away the moisture. Use a dehumidifier in that room. As a last resort, wipe the surface gently with isopropyl alcohol (or a cheap vodka) and just let the alcohol evaporate naturally. As it evaporates, it will pull moisture out of the paint.”

This advice is helpful whether you have a room you have already painted or if you plan to paint in the future.

Tips for Minimizing Off-Gassing from Paint

• Start with zero-VOC paints that are also free of solvents, biocides or fungicides. Recommended brands are AFM Safecoat and ECOS.
• Apply water-based paint in very thin coats.
• Allow 2-4 hours for paint to dry between coats.
  • Water-based paints cure from the outside-in, so the surface will feel dry first. Make sure you allow enough time for each coat to dry before applying another coat.
• Use a large fan to help wick away moisture.
• Run a dehumidifier in the room being painted.
• If necessary, wipe the surface gently with isopropyl alcohol and let it evaporate.

I highly recommend The Green Design Center if you are looking for non-toxic building supplies. Andy and his team also specialize in helping people with MCS find building supplies that are well-tolerated.  Check out his podcast too!

Question from Marilyn

I’m planning to redo a bathroom with an open shower. The contractor tells me it involves some kind of hot tar layer to make the floor water proof before laying tile. Do you know of a non-toxic option that meets California code?

I am not familiar with California code so you will need to work with your contractor on that.  I have used Hardibacker Board or another water-resistant cementitious board as an underlayment for the tile.  I recommend the book “Prescriptions for a Healthy Home, 3rd edition” for any building or remodel project that you have.

Question from Marilyn

I was not able to open the file you sent but in general tile is safe to use.  There are concerns about cutting the tile as the dust can be harmful.  Lead is a particular element of concern from cutting, however, most will have trace amounts due to contamination and not as an added ingredient.  Once the tile is cut, lead will not emit into the air.  Cutting tile outdoors is advised.  Read more here for additional information.

Question from Riley

I recommend working with a certified expert from the Building Biology Institute.  You can look for one in your area using the link.

Question from Lauren

I have no personal experience with Obasan but based on what they have on their website its sounds like a good option.  They have GOTS certified organic cotton and wool and GOLS certified natural rubber.  They don’t say anything about factory certification, however.  I would need to learn more about their process.

Naturpedic is my favorite mattress brand because they use only the most natural materials at every step of manufacture.  Their factory is certified along with the materials they use.  You can read more about it here. Naturpedic also has mattresses with no coils.

The topic of EMF in bed coils is a complicated one with many conflicting viewpoints.  I am not an EMF expert but based on what I have read I do not think mattress coils are a concern.

Question from Mary

Naturpedic has mattresses with no coils.  Naturpedic is my favorite mattress brand because they use only the most natural materials at every step of manufacture.  You can read more about it here.

The topic of EMF in bed coils is a complicated one with many conflicting viewpoints.  I am not an EMF expert but based on what I have read I do not think mattress coils are a concern.

Question from Lanny

Unfortunately, there is not a clear answer based on the information provided.  All three will have chemical emissions.  The acrylic is made from petrochemicals.  The wood veneer will have adhesives and probably a lacquer finish.  The wood/wood composite will also have adhesives, stain and possibly a lacquer finish.  You would need to understand the content of the adhesive, stains and lacquers to know how toxic they are.

I would not recommend any of these, particularly for use in your bedroom.

Question from Kristina

I just wrote a post on the chemicals in upholstered furniture.  You can read it here.  I can’t tell you specifically what is in your piece but upholstered furniture can off-gas indefinitely.  The heat can accelerate the off-gassing but just because you were not smelling it before does not mean it was not off-gassing.  Debra’s List has several non-toxic furniture makers.

Question from Kristina

Here is a previous response to this question from Debra.

Photo by Bence Balla-Schottner on Unsplash

Readers occasionally send me suggestions for furniture that they consider safe because they are free of flame retardants.  Flame retardants are among the most harmful of chemicals found in traditional furniture but unfortunately, they are not the only chemicals of concern.

Fire retardants became common additives to polyurethane foam used in furniture in response to California flammability standard TB117 that was adopted in 1975.  U.S. manufactures adopted the standard for products sold all over the country so that they would not have to have a separate inventory for California.  Flame retardants have been linked to adverse health effects including cancer, lower IQ, learning disorders, hormone disruption and reduced fertility.

California revised their standard in 2014 to allow manufacturers to meet flammability requirements without chemical flame retardants.  There are now hundreds of couches and other upholstered furniture options that don’t use harmful chemical flame retardants in their polyurethane foam.  Keep in mind that these chemicals are not banned, they are just no longer required.

This is an important step in the right direction but it is not enough.  There are many other chemicals of concern in traditional upholstered furniture.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is made by reacting polyols, a type of complex alcohol, and diisocyanates, which are a petroleum byproduct.  The most common source of diiscyanate used in foam is TDI, or toluene diiscyanate.   In its raw form TDI is a carcinogen.  Once reacted it is inert but it can still offgas.¹ 

There are many potential additives to polyurethane foam.  Manufacturers often consider their additive ingredients proprietary and do not disclose them.  Formaldehyde is not usually added to foam but it can be a byproduct of chemical reactions or from adhesives used on the foam.

Upholstered furniture such as sofas and reclining chairs can be a significant source of VOCs.  One study tested a range of large furniture and appliances and found that the sofa emitted the highest level of VOCs.

Other Furniture Components

Treated Fabric

According to O Ecotextiles, all stain repellent finishes are based on fluorotelmer chemistry, which means it pertains to chemicals which become perfluorocarbons (PFCs) when released into the environment.  There are newer stain repellent finishes that are claiming to be safer and less bioaccumulative.  Though safer than older formulations, there is little human data to support just how safe they are.

Leather

Leather can be processed using hundreds of harmful substances including chromium, formaldehyde, phthalates and heavy metals.

Adhesives

Adhesives can contain solvents such a benzene, toluene, styrene or acetone.

Composite Wood

Particleboard, plywood, MDF are often sources of formaldehyde.

Stains

Stains and finishes can be sources of VOCs including acetone, methylene chlorine, benzene and toluene.

If you are looking for upholstered furniture that is safe and non-toxic, visit Debra’s List.

Question from Kendall

Have you tried washing them with soap and water?  Readers, do you have any other suggestions?

Question from Jesse

The concerns around the technology is that they can cause harm to skin and eyes (much like sun damage) as well as emit dangerous ozone.  Until there is research that shows definitively that these devices are safe, I would not use them.  Additionally, they are not part of the recommended protocol by the EPA because the EPA has not evaluated them for effectiveness against the novel coronavirus.

Question from Michayla

Unfortunately, upholstered furniture with polyurethane foam is not something that gets better as it gets older.  Flame retardants were used in foam starting in the 1970’s so that couch most likely contains them.  As the foam degrades over time the flame retardants end up in household dust.  Additionally, formaldehyde, also a likely component, can off-gas indefinitely.  Finally, leather is processed with hundreds of chemicals.  I can’t say for sure if old leather is better or worse than new leather because I would have to understand each chemical used in the process.

Question from C.S.

Unfortunately, I am not aware of home test that does this.

Duke University has a program that allows you to send in polyurethane foam from household mattresses and furniture to see if it has flame retardants.

Question from Jayy

Cigarette smoke is comprised of both particles and gas so you would need a mask that filters out both.  EnviroKlenz makes a mask that does both but it is currently out of stock.

Readers any other suggestions?

Question from Anna

I’m sorry you are having such a difficult time.  For non-toxic clothing and shoes/boots you can look at Debra’s List or use the search button on the site to look up clothing.  There are several articles and threads where readers have reported on clothing that is both non-toxic and tolerable.  As always though, because everyone is different, what is tolerable to one person may not be to another.

Here is information on a lightweight wool sleeping bag that might work for you.

Here is some more information on Lifestraw.  I have not done a full investigation of these type of filters so I can’t tell you about other options.

I use Kleen Kanteen for hiking because glass is not practical for this purpose.  If you are sensitive to nickel you should not use stainless steel.  Here is some more on using stainless steel for drinking.

You might want to consider reaching out to Debra for a paid consultation because you have many specific needs.  She is available for paid consults until June 18, 2020.

Readers do you have any other suggestions?

Question from Dac

See below comments from Andy Pace of The Green Design Center.

Question from Zara

I am glad you are finding the site helpful!  Unfortunately, I am not familiar with dishware from the UK.  Readers, any suggestions?

Question from Jen C.

Yes, take a look at Happsy.

Photo by André François McKenzie on Unsplash

I have written previously about how cooking is a major source of indoor air pollution but a new report highlights particular risk from gas stoves and ovens. Homes with gas stoves can have nitrogen dioxide concentrations that are 50 to 400 percent higher than homes with electric stoves.¹

Gas appliances can emit a range of pollutants including:

• Carbon monoxide
• Nitrogen oxides, including nitrogen dioxide
• Fine particulate matter
• Formaldehyde and other VOCs

Health effects from these pollutants include respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease, and premature death.  Children who are exposed to nitrogen dioxide have an increased risk for asthma.  There is also evidence that suggests a small increase in fine particulate matter can lead to a large increase in COVID-19 death rates.² 

The impact on air quality from gas cooking is greater the smaller your living space because the pollutants are more concentrated.

What to do if you own a gas stove or oven?

• Consider replacing it with an electric stove/oven.
• Properly ventilate.

Make sure your range hood meets code requirements.  It’s estimated that only half of new U.S. homes meet code requirements for range hoods.  Studies also show that many people do not use their range hoods when cooking.  If your range hood doesn’t extend over your front burners, make sure to cook on your back burners.

If you don’t have a range hood that vents to the outside, open your windows while cooking.

• Purchase an air purifier that removes small particles and gases.

Be aware that many popular air purifiers are not effective at removing small particle and gas pollutants from cooking.  (see Air Purifier Buying Guide)

Question from Dalin

Unfortunately, I am not aware of list that tells which washers and dryers have the Proposition 65 warning.  You can call GE and ask them what chemical is used in your model that requires the warning.  Then you can ask where it is used in the machine and what the consumer exposure is.  Often times, the warning is for something that is used in the cord or another component that the consumer has little or no exposure to during normal use.

Question from Whitney

Indeed it does say they use ozone!  I have removed it from Debra’s List.  I will need to do further research to better understand the risk.  In the meantime, I would chose another deodorant.

Question from Joseph

I am working on a Buying Guide for Toasters that will be posted next week.  Check back then!

Question from Lisa

I am working on a Buying Guide for Toasters that will be posted next week.  Check back then!

I hope you have had a chance to read my new Air Purifier Buying Guide. I received a lot of questions about other air purifiers that were not discussed. The guide is designed so that you can evaluate any air purifier you are considering by comparing the outlined criteria. I did get multiple requests to look specifically at the following brands:
* Air Doctor
* Airpura
* Aireox
* Austin HealthMate Plus Junior

Here is a review of these additional brands. I hope you find it helpful.

New Air Purifier Reviews

Question from Ron

Sur La Table’s GreenPan is a hard anodized aluminum core with ceramic non-stick coating.  Studies have shown that ceramic coatings can release nanoparticles into food.  According to the study, chronic exposure can cause immune system disruption and pre-cancerous lesions to the gut.  Most manufacturers do not specify exactly what is in their coatings because it is proprietary.  Without further testing to prove safety, I don’t recommend any cookware with non-stick coatings.

Man Pans are anodized aluminum with a non-stick coating.  They also do not reveal what is in their coating because it is proprietary.  While they claim that the coatings do not chip or flake, I would also be concerned about the possibility because aluminum is very prone to leaching.

I wouldn’t use either pan.

Question from Melissa

Hi Lisa, thank you for this wonderful resource!  We are in the process of a home renovation project, which includes moving our kitchen and several lightly used bathrooms (powder room
and guest room/office bathroom).

Our contractor was planning to use PEX piping for all incoming water.  I know there are concerns about leaching from PEX pipes.  Would you share that concern?

One alternative is copper pipes.  The contractor is pricing this for us for our kitchen only, as it is likely too expensive to use everywhere (the kitchen is our highest priority for uncontaminated water).  Do you have health concerns with copper pipes and/or joint materials that would be used with it?

For the other locations, I know that polypropylene pipes are sometimes considered safer than PEX, but that there could be concerns about joint material used with polypropylene pipes.  What do you think about polypropylene  vs PEX?

Here is a very good guide by EWG on pipes.  Perhaps use copper with lead-free joints where affordable and polypropylene pipes on the remainder.

Question from TJG

After an exhaustive search for a 100% nylon shower curtain (untreated) I settled for one that some websites touted as having the lease toxic material (Berning).  But when I received product which was labeled as 100% nylon, I cross referenced it on manufacturers sight (Carnation Home fashions) and it was classified as polyester. There is no chemical odor to it but is nylon a safer material for those with chemical sensitivities and allergies?

If the product is labelled 100% nylon, it should be nylon.  I looked at the manufacturer’s website and see where it says it is 100% nylon but then goes on to say it is 100% polyester.  You could call the company to clarify.  Perhaps it is a typo.  I can’t tell you what any sensitive person will react to because everyone is different.

Question from Joyce

I have a small teapot, sugar and creamer labeled L.H. Vaughn, Taunton, Mass.    In searching I discovered he started in business in 1915.  They have not darkened in the 6 years I have had them.  Did he use lead in the making of his pewter items?  Because they have not darkened in time can I assume there is no lead in them?

I can’t tell you about that particular maker, but old pewter (made before the 1970’s) was typically made with lead.  Did you purchase them new 6 years ago or are they older pieces?  If they were made in the early 1900’s I would assume there is lead in it.  It is generally true that the darker the pewter, the more lead.  However, since there is no safe level of lead, I would not recommend using it.

Question from Dawn

What are the best air cleaners and protection from EMF’s?

Here is my Air Purifier Buying Guide.  I am not an expert in EMF’s.

Question from Dawn

I don’t know what stores in the Pittsburgh area carry non or low toxic reclining furniture and I need to buy some for the new home we plan to be in fairly soon.

I am not familiar with local stores in your area.  You can check out Debra’s List for non-toxic furniture makers.  There are many options for loveseats, though non-toxic options tend to be expensive.  I am not aware of any non-toxic recliners on the market but there are companies that might be able to custom make one for you. It will not be inexpensive. Pine Street Natural Interiors is one to try.

Almost all traditionally made upholstered furniture is made with polyurethane foam cushioning.  The polyurethane foam is likely to contain formaldehyde and possibly flame retardants. Formaldehyde can continue to off-gas for the life of the product and flame retardants in the foam can break down and end up in household dust.  The other things to avoid in traditional furniture are treated fabrics, leather tanned with harmful chemicals, high-VOC adhesives and stains.

Question from Elle

I am looking at the play mat with the link below (the website includes some safety reports):

https://wunderkids.ca/products/alzipmat

Inner: High Density Polyethylene FoamCover: Polyurethane Leather

The company states that it is the only playmat cover that is made from *FDA compliant (food contact grade) material. Plus the premium polyurethane leather is ultra soft, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic.

*FDA 21 CFR §175.300, Resinous and Polymeric Coatings. No chloroform residue was found after 24 hours exposure to 120℉ solvent.

Can you kindly comment if it is safe for babies/infants? Thank you in advance for your advice.

A simple answer to your question is yes, it is safe. It meets all of the safety requirements and is free of some of the more concerning ingredients you might find in a this type of product including PVC, EVA, TPA, BPA, Lead, Phthalate, Fire Retardants, Formamide, and Formaldehyde. It is considered food safe in the event that a child licks it. The problem with polyurethane foam or polyethylene foam is that they are often made with chemical additives. The safety standards can make you feel comfortable that there are not high levels of chemicals but it doesn’t mean there are no chemicals and therefore no VOCs. It is probably okay, but of course, is not as safe as a mat made of organic cotton with a natural fill. I understand that this is easier to clean and provides more protection from falls, so the tradeoff is yours to make.
Another option is Cream Haus.
It is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified which tells you that there is an additional standard that the mats need to meet. I can’t tell you specifically which chemicals are absent or lower than the other mat because manufactures do not disclose the chemicals used in their processing but it is one more layer of regulation.

There are hundreds of portable indoor air purifiers on the market.  Finding the best one for your needs can be a daunting task.  Most air purifiers, particularly inexpensive models, only filter particulate matter but do nothing to remove gases, VOCs and odor.  If your goal is to remove as many of the most harmful contaminants as possible from your indoor air you need to look for air purifiers that remove both particulate and gaseous matter.

5 Things to Consider When Buying an Air Purifier

1. Type of Filtration

Most filters are designed to remove either particles or gases.  A unit that does both will have two or more types of filters.  For example, a unit with only HEPA filtration will do nothing to eliminate gaseous pollutants.

HEPA

HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air.  True HEPA filters are manufactured and certified to a standard in which 99.97% of all particles that have a size greater than or equal to 0.3 microns are captured.  But not all HEPA filters perform equally.  Some air purifiers with True HEPA filters can have different levels of efficiency and performance.  Keep reading to learn why efficiency is an important criteria when choosing an air purifier.

Sorbent Media

Sorbent media filters use material with very high surface area to capture gaseous pollutants.

Activated Carbon

This is the most common type of sorbent filter used in air purifiers.  Carbon can be very efficient at capturing gaseous pollutants but it does not destroy them.  According to the EPA, filters must be properly maintained to prevent the carbon from becoming saturated.  Once saturated, captured gases can break through and re-release into the air. Carbon is typically not as effective at removing low-weight aldehydes such as formaldehyde.

Some filters use chemisorption to stabilize gases and to help to target a variety of chemicals activated carbon cannot effectively remove.  Chemisorption occurs when a gas reacts with an agent that is impregnated into the sorbent media.

Earth Minerals

This is a proprietary type of sorbent media that is used in EnviroKlenz purifiers.  It is comprised of zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, and titanium dioxide.  The earth minerals adsorb, neutralize and breakdown the chemical compounds into basic, non-toxic elements.  This media also uses chemisorption to stabilize chemical compounds.

UVGI

Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation uses UV lamps to kill or deactivate captured microorganisms such as bacteria, mold spores, and viruses.

PCO and PECO

Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) uses UV light and a filter coated with titanium oxide to convert harmful pollutants into harmless water and carbon dioxide.  PCO can be effective at transforming many pollutants but may produce chemical by-products, such as formaldehyde, and some may produce ozone.

PECO, photo electrochemical oxidation, is the proprietary technology used by Molekule.  PECO was developed based on similar principles as PCO, photocatalytic oxidation, but it uses a different type of UV light to begin the chemical reaction that breaks down the pollutants and claims to not produce ozone or chemical by-products.

Ozone Generators

Ozone generators produce ozone which react with chemical and biologic pollutants and break them down or destroy them. Ozone is a lung irritant and its production can produce harmful by-products.  No federal agency has approved ozone generators for use in occupied spaces.

2. How Well Does it Remove Particulate Matter?

There are 3 factors that will help you compare different air purifiers ability to remove particulate pollution; efficiency, air delivery rate, and room size coverage.

Efficiency

This is the percentage of a concentration of particulate pollutants that are removed when they move through the unit.  For example, HEPA filters must have an efficiency of 99.97% for particles 0.3 microns and larger. Some manufactures will give a total efficiency percentage as well as percentages for different sized particles.  This is helpful because not all models are as good at removing smaller particles.

Particulate matter can be categorized based on its size.

Course particles (2.5 to 10 microns) include pollen and mold spores.

Fine particles, (0.1 microns to 2.5 microns) include household dust, bacteria, pet dander, and virus.

Ultra-fine (<0.1 microns) include some wildfire smoke, tobacco smoke, soot, and some virus.

If you are concerned about removing a particular contaminant, look for the efficiency for that size.  Make sure the unit removes a high percentage of pollutants in that size range.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)

This measure tells you the volume of air that can be filtered by an air purifier in one minute. The higher the CADR, which is expressed in cubic feet per minute (cfm), the more air can be processed in a room in a given timeframe and the larger the room it can clean.  The CADR is based on running the unit at the highest fan speed.  Generally speaking, a delivery rate of 250 cfm is considered very good.

While CADR is one metric to look at, it has limitations.  It is only a measure of particulate pollution and tells you nothing about a unit’s ability to remove chemical VOCs, gases or odors.  Additionally, it favors units that perform well very quickly but not necessarily over a longer period of time.

Room Size

Most manufacturers provide an estimate of how large a room the unit can clean.  These calculations are usually based on a room with an 8ft. ceiling.  If you have a higher ceiling, the coverage will be less than stated.  You may need multiple units if your room is larger the recommended room size.

3. How Well Does it Remove Gases?

There is no standard for comparing how well air purifiers remove gases.  If comparing air purifiers brands or models that each use activated carbon, the ones with more carbon weight will generally be more effective.  Those that also use chemisorption will be more effective at destroying formaldehyde and other VOCs.  For brands and models that use other technology, you will need to reply on third-party testing to assess their performance.

4. Test Results and Reviews

When reading testing results on manufacturers websites make sure the data is independent third-party tested with specific information on who conducted the testing and under what parameters.  The greater the transparency around the testing, typically, the greater confidence you can have in the results.  Consumer reviews can also be helpful but be aware that most of the reviews that compare different air purifiers evaluate larger particle removal and not removal of fine particles or gases.  Make sure you understand what is being evaluated.

Unfortunately, even independent third-party testing cannot always be trusted.  A stunning report by Wirecutter revealed that the makers of Molekule were advised by the NAD, an investigative division of the Better Business Bureau, to remove claims of “independent” testing from their marketing because much of the testing was done at labs which had received sponsorship from the company or where the founder was a director.

There is currently very limited independent research available and more is needed to compare air purifiers that claim to remove chemicals and gases.

5. Price

Models that I am recommending here range in price from $699 to $1299.  Most units that removes gases as well as particles are more expensive because they use multiple filter technologies.

Recommended Air Purifiers

I have only evaluated air purifiers that remove both particulate and gaseous pollutant because this website is dedicated to eliminating toxins.  Most air purifiers do nothing to remove some of the most dangerous pollutants in your indoor air such as VOCs and gases from cooking combustion.  If your primary interest is removing large molecule allergens like pollen there are many lower-cost options not covered here.

I recommend 4 popular models that rate well against all of the criteria outlined above.  If you are looking at a brand or model not listed here, you can compare it against the criteria to better understand how it stacks up. Check back often as I will continue to update testing data as well as add new brands and models.

EnviroKlenz Mobile Air System

Technology:    True HEPA filter

   Earth Minerals material

   UVGI (for UV Model)

Room Size:      Maximum 1000 sq. ft.

Efficiency:        99.99% for particles >0.3 microns

Air Delivery:    250 cfm

Price:               $699 without UV, $799 with UV.

Filter Replacement Cost:  Earth mineral filter ($99) every 6 months, HEPA filter ($150) every 2 to 3 years.

Testing and Reviews:

EnviroKlenz provides extensive laboratory testing results on their website that compares their product with IQAir, BlueAir and Molekule. The testing shows the unit to be very effective at removing a range of VOCs.  Additionally, they submitted a unit for review to Vacuum Wars, an independent review and comparison channel on YouTube.  It is not a laboratory, but it does conduct an unbiased chamber test.  They claim it could be the best on the market.

Bottom Line:

EnviroKlenz is a very powerful unit that effectively cleans both particulate and gaseous pollutants.  It is a simple, no frill model made with a powder coated metal housing.  Some readers on this site have reported quality control and customer service concerns though the EnviroKlenz website shows very positive reviews.  The UV model provides extra protection against virus, mold and bacteria.

IQAir GC MultiGas

Technology:    True HEPA filter

   Activated Carbon (12lbs.)

   Chemisorption

Room Size:      Maximum 1240 sq. ft.

Efficiency:        ≥ 99% for particles ≥ 0.3 microns

   ≥ 95% at ≥ 0.003 microns

Air Delivery:    780 cfm

Price:              $1299

Filter Replacement Cost:  Prefilter ($78) every year, Gas cartridges ($295) every 2.5 years, Post-filter sleeves ($95) every 2.5 years

Testing and Reviews:

IQAir does not provide testing data on their website but the testing on the EnviroKlenz website shows that this is extremely effective at removing formaldehyde.  The Allergy Buyers Club rates it as the category winner for VOC and chemical removal because it is able to deliver excellent fine and ultra-fine particle removal as well as address specific chemicals and gases.

Bottom Line:

This is a top-of-the-line unit that does an excellent job of removing particles, even the most concerning fine and ultra-fine particles, as well as a range of chemicals, gases and odor.

IQAir HealthPro Plus

Technology:    True HEPA filter

   Activated Carbon (5lbs.)

   Chemisorption

Room Size:      Maximum 1125 sq. ft.

Efficiency:        ≥ 99.97% for particles ≥ 0.3 microns

   ≥ 99.5% at ≥ 0.003 microns

Air Delivery:    780 cfm

Price:              $899

Filter Replacement Cost:  Prefilter ($69) every 1.5 years, V5-Cell filter ($99) every 2 years, HyperHEPA filter ($199) every 4 years

Testing and Reviews:

Allergy Buyers Club rates this as the category winner for HEPA air purifiers.

Bottom Line:

Compared to the IQAir GC MultiGas, this model is even more efficient at fine and ultra-fine particle removal but not as powerful against chemicals, gases and odor.  If you are concerned about smoke, virus or other ultra-fine particles, this might be the model for you.  Note: Only the HealthPro Plus model removes gas, while the HealthPro model does not.

Austin Air Healthmate Plus

Technology:    True HEPA filter

   Activated Carbon (15lbs.)

   Chemisorption

Room size:      Maximum 1500 sq. ft.

Efficiency:       99.97% for particles ≥0.3 microns

   95% for particles ≥0.1 microns

Air Delivery:    400 cfm

Price:               $715

Filter Replacement Cost:  Replacement Filter ($360) every 5 years.

Testing and Reviews:

Austin Air purifiers are sold on many sites and have positive consumer reviews.  There is a lack of independent testing showing how it compares to the other recommended units but based on its technology and efficiency at removing particles, it is a solid choice.

Bottom Line:

This is a simple but well-made unit by a company that has been around for a long time and stands behind their products.

Why I Don’t Recommend Molekule

I own a Molekule and purchased it because of the extensive third-party testing they provide on their website.  The data shows compelling performance against VOCS, mold, bacteria, and virus, and provides evidence that no ozone or by-products are emitted.  Experts have verified these results.

Consumers love the product.  Repeat purchases are 200% which means people who own a unit are happy enough to go back and buy additional units.

Consumer reviews that have rated Molekule poorly only test for a short period of time and Molekule’s testing shows strong results over longer periods.

So, why don’t I recommend it?

As I mentioned above, makers of Molekule were advised an investigative division of the Better Business Bureau, to remove claims of “independent” testing from their marketing because much of the testing was done at labs which had received sponsorship from the company or where the founder was a director.  If the results of the data cannot be trusted there is no compelling reason to buy this product over the other recommended models.  It is possible that its new technology performs as well as the manufacturer claims and as the test results show, but based on this disappointing news, it’s a safer bet to chose the proven technology in one of the recommended units.

For chemically sensitive individuals, you may want to also look at mychemicalfreehouse.net which has a good overview of different media and purifier components that may cause a reaction.  Additionally, make sure you understand the return policy for the unit you plan to purchase so if you are not able to tolerate it you have the option of sending it back.

Question from Irene

Hello, with people making do it yourself masks, I have seen that Blue Shop Towels are being recommended as they are considered to block small particles more effectively than any cotton, even if doubled. My concern though is whether they might have a level of toxicity if you are breathing through them. Can you let me know? I am in the process of trying to make masks for my family and I don’t want to put them in danger.

I looked at several different shop towels.  Some claim to be made of polyester, some polypropylene, and some recycled fibers.  None had a MSDS.  What I really would like to know is if they are treated with anything.  If you would like to call a company that makes them and try to find out the materials used as well as any treatments I could give you a better answer.

Question from Ruthe

I’ve been hearing some people are using waterproofing sprays on their homemade masks to prevent contraction and/or spread of COVID. This seems like a really bad idea to me – actually using it to breathe through.  Is there any way to safely make a bandana waterproof for breathing through?

It sounds like a bad idea to me too.  Waterproof sprays usually contain polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) which are highly toxic, particularly to put over your mouth and nose.  You could apply beeswax to a bandana to make it water resistant but I cannot tell you if that would do anything to better protect you from the virus.

Question from Audrey

Are there any nontoxic recipes to make a disinfectant for the coronavirus?
I am allergic to alcohol and many scents so  I usually use white vinegar and sometimes tea tree oil, but I have heard they are not strong enough to kill this virus. Would borax and/or iodine be a good option? Any direction on this would be helpful.

Lisa’s Answer

Unfortunately, I am not a scientist and cannot tell you what works to destroy the novel coronavirus.  I have also read that vinegar is not effective.  Please be cautious when reading about homemade remedies to protect against the virus and make sure the source is an appropriate expert.

According to Consumer Reports, there is not yet direct evidence that air filtration works to reduce transmission of the novel coronavirus but there is evidence from the SARS virus, which is similar, that air purifiers might help.

HEPA filters have the ability to capture 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in diameter.  According to CR, the novel coronavirus is 0.125 microns but the droplets it travels in is around 1 micron.  That should be easily captured by the filter.  There are many higher-end purifiers that capture much smaller particles which may be even more effective.

Keep in mind that HEPA filters capture the virus but do not necessarily destroy it.  Caution is needed when changing filters because it is possible for the virus to live on surfaces for hours or days.  There are some other technologies such as PECO or UV light that claim to destroy virus but there is less testing and evidence of results because the technology is less common.

It’s worth noting that CR recommends opening a window if there is a sick person in your home to dilute  indoor contaminants including virus.  While air purifiers may provide additional protection, they are only capable of capturing particles that remain in the air.

Read more about air purifiers in the new Portable Air Purifier Buying Guide that will be published on the site next week.

Question from Jason

Kinda in a bind here im a guy looking for non toxic sneakers for running and working out in that are seemingly comfortable. However none of the mainstream brands have a shoe good enough imo thats non toxic. I found a couple off of debs older list and was wondering you thoughts on how non toxic and safe they are.

https://po-zu.com/collections/mens-sneakers/products/pace-2-mens-black

-This one is made up of 100% Recycled Polyester Mesh & Eco Microfibre alternative to leather which is not ideal but it is OEKO-TEX Certified.

https://wills-vegan-store.com/vegan-wvsport-oakes-cross-running-trainers-womens-black.html

https://po-zu.com/products/brisk-black-white?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1rCc4cje6AIVhK7ICh0AMwsbEAkYASABEgJSZPD_BwE&variant=1212638023

I feel your pain.  I am not aware of any truly non-toxic running shoe that provide an acceptable level of performance.  I feel that the benefits of running offset the minor exposure from a good pair of running shoes and I keep mine in the garage to avoid any off-gassing in the house.  That said, it’s always good to be on the lookout for better options.

Kudos to po-zu.  While not perfect, these are about the least toxic sneakers I have seen.  I can’t attest to the performance but the materials are impressive.  The Brisk has slightly better materials than Pace 2 but both are very good options.

The Pace 2 has a sole made of natural latex and a blend of natural latex and cork.  The foot mattress is natural latex.  These are all good.  The glues used are water-base.  The outer and lining materials are synthetic but OEKO-Tex certified so at least they are not processed with harsh chemicals.  The biggest concerns on a traditional running shoe is the foam insert and synthetic rubber sole.  This shoe doesn’t have those materials.  The synthetic upper material is not a big exposure.

The BRISK is even cleaner because it does not use any glue.  It has some organic cotton in addition to synthetic material.

The shoes from Will’s are vegan and ethically made but use materials that are more similar to traditional running shoes.  They have synthetic rubber soles and EVA insoles.

If you end up buying a pair from po-zu, please let us know how they perform and how they hold up.

Just a note to those who are particularly sensitive, I can tell you about the toxicity of the materials but I can’t say what any individual will react to because everyone is different.

Question from Doodie

Question from Sandy

Readers, do you have any other suggestions?

Question from Marisa

I’m glad you are finding the site helpful.  Unfortunately, I am not aware of a microwaveable bowl that is unbreakable.  Polypropylene is typically one of the safer plastics but any type of plastic can have additives that are harmful.  You can read more about that here.  Additionally, no plastic should be used in the microwave.

While I rarely use a microwave, I do have small pyrex glass bowls that are microwavable and more durable than many other glass bowls.

When my kids were little, I used stainless steel plates and bowls.  Could you perhaps microwave the food in a safe container such as glass and then put it on a stainless steel plates or bowls for them to eat?  Life Without Plastic is a great source for dishware for kids and adults.

Readers, do you have any suggestions?

Question from Becca

Question from Mary

Question from Priya

I use Xtrema cookware and also use a stainless steel pan to make eggs.  Cast iron is also a good choice.  You can look for safe options from Debra’s List.

Question from Sandee

You can read here about research that shows that quasi ceramic coatings released titanium dioxide nanoparticles into food and that chronic exposure to these nanoparticles can lead to immune disruption and pre-cancer lesions in the gut.  I can’t say for certain that these pans use this coating, but I would avoid all ceramic coatings as a precautionary measure.

Question from Catherine

IQAir’s Atem car purifier is a good choice.

Question from Sharon

Both Novalink 35 and AFM Safecoat caulk have very low levels of VOCs and are solvent-free.  I personally use AFM Safecoat but they are comparable products.  Even products with low VOCs can have an odor.  For those who are sensitive, it is always a good idea to test a product before using it.

Question from Miriam

They are made from the same material used to make tiles for schools, and hospitals.  They pass California standards for indoor air quality so they emit a low level of VOCs but that doesn’t mean they don’t emit any VOCs.  This is probably safer than recycled tires but it is still petroleum-based plastic.  Because the tiles are recycled, it may not even be known what ingredients were used in the original product.  You might want to ask if the material contains phthalates or lead which would not be measured in air quality testing.  Also, keep in mind that these will be exposed to sun and humidity which will only increase off-gassing.

While they may be safer than recycled tires, I would go with untreated wood chips.

Covid-19 is a respiratory disease that affects your lungs so now is a good time to be thinking about keeping your lungs, and your overall health, as strong as possible.  According to the American Lung Association, air pollution can make the COVID-19 pandemic worse. Since it is a disease affecting the lungs, people who live in places with more air pollution could be more vulnerable.

In normal times, indoor air pollution can be 2 to 5 times greater than outdoor pollution.  There are new factors, related to the pandemic, that may be making indoor air pollution levels even higher and our exposure greater.

• Most of us are spending more time than ever indoors.
• As disinfecting is an important defense against the virus, people may be using products with more toxic ingredients than they would normally use.
• We are cooking more meals at home which creates harmful fumes and particles that need to be properly ventilated.

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to improve your air quality and keep yourself well.

• Open your windows, often.

Outdoor air pollution levels have improved dramatically in China as a result of restricted activities indicating that air in the U.S. may also be improving.  Opening your windows will let the cleaner air in.

• Keep the house clean.

Household dust is full of toxic chemicals as well as allergens and other harmful particles.  Pick up dust with a damp cloth and use a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

• Use proper ventilation when cooking.

Cooking is a major source of poor indoor air quality.  Proper ventilation is critical, particularly if you are cooking with gas.  If you don’t have a range hood that vents to the outside, open your windows while cooking.  If your range hood doesn’t extend over your front burners, make sure to cook on your back burners.  Also, clean up any food particles on the burners because as they burn, they can release toxic by-products into the air.

• Change your filters.

If your air filter from your HVAC system is clogged it can recirculate dust, mold and particles back into your air.

• Invest in an Air Purifier.

Check out Debra’s List for recommended air purifiers.  I am working on updating this and developing a buying guide that I will post soon.

Question from Miriam

I reached out to ECR4Kids to try to find out what finish they use and if they use adhesive but have not heard back.  You could absolutely use AFM SafeSeal on this!  That would be a very good option.  I would do this over either of the IKEA options.

The IKEA Mammut is made of polypropylene, which is typically a safer plastic.  However, as I discuss in this post, it is very difficult to know what additives are used in the plastic.  These additives are often more hazardous than the plastic.

The IKEA Ypperlig has even more materials of concern.  The top is made of particleboard, ash veneer, fiberboard, solid birch with a clear lacquer.  IKEA strives to use lower levels of chemicals in their products but they do use chemicals.  Particleboard and fiberboard often contain formaldehyde.  Veneers use adhesive which off-gas.  The lacquer could also off-gas.  It has many more potential sources of chemicals than the solid wood table.

Question from Emma

Question from Elizabeth

Photo by Liubov Ilchuk on Unsplash

There is always a high level of interest among my readers in the health effects of heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, so I I thought I’d share my experience with Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA). HTMA is a laboratory hair test that measures the mineral content in your hair and assesses both your mineral deficiencies and potential heavy metal toxicities. Unlike blood testing which only gives you information about recent exposure, hair testing can give you an indication of long-term toxic metal accumulation. 

I worked with Karen Stein, of Go Healthy with Karen®, a certified health coach who is also trained in Hair Mineral Analysis. Full disclosure, Karen is my sister. 

My Results 

Honestly, I was not expecting to see any dramatic results given my healthy lifestyle and avoidance of toxins. Needless to say, I was startled to find that I have high levels of mercury as well as some mineral imbalances that signify stress, environmental toxins, or heavy metals. According to WebMD (link), if your hair has toxins like mercury and arsenic, you could be more likely to get certain health problems. 

Karen warned me that results from your first hair test often show no or low levels of heavy metals because they can hide in our tissues, organs, brain and even bones. Once you begin to detox, the metals can show up in future tests, before diminishing as you complete your detoxification program. 

My Detox Program 

Karen developed a personalized supplement protocol based on my testing results. I have taken many supplements over the years and am impressed with the clean ingredients and affordable price. After 4- 6 months I will do another hair test to see if my mercury levels have gone down and my minerals are in balance. There is a chance that as my body is detoxing, I will see the presence of other heavy metals. If that is the case, we will adjust the supplements until my test is clean. I will continue to post updates on my progress. 

Things to Consider When Testing for Heavy Metals

I believe that it is important to test before taking any products that claims to remove heavy metals. Different binders (products that bind to and help remove heavy metals from the body) can have a greater affinity for different types of metals. It is important to know what accumulations you have in your body to know what type of binder is appropriate for each individual person. If someone has significant mineral deficiencies showing on their HTMA analysis, they should undergo a slower pre-detox phase while they build up their mineral levels. Blindly taking detox supplements can cause serious symptoms, once these metals are freed and circulating in the body without properly binding and removing them.

It’s also important to consider the laboratory that will run your test. There are only 2 laboratories in the country that do not wash the hair sample before analyzing it. This will distort the results. Make sure the laboratory that is being used for your hair test does not wash the samples.

Finally, look for a practitioner that has delivered results for their clients and who is specially trained in analyzing the HTMA data. The typical HTMA comes from the lab with a report that many practitioners will just pass along to their clients. It offers some basic supplement and/or nutritional recommendations. Karen is among a small group of practitioners who have been extensively and specially trained to further analyze the data contained in the HTMA far beyond what the report shows. This analysis can uncover trends in mineral ratios and patterns that can point to possible underlying issues with metabolism, thyroid function, brain fog, immune function as well as heavy metal toxicities.

If would like to learn more about HTMA read more here. If you would like to work with Karen you can contact her at Go Healthy with Karen ®- www.gohealthywithkaren.com or call her at 770-508-8980.

Photo by Freshh Connection on Unsplash

If you are looking to boost your immune system try this delicious, warming latte.  It packs a punch with immune-boosting ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

2 cup almond milk (homemade preferred)

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

½ teaspoon cinnamon

1 Tablespoon fresh grated ginger (or ¼ teaspoon ground ginger)

Pinch black pepper

Optional:  Sweeten with honey

Serves 2

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, add all of the ingredients, except for the honey.
2. Whisk over medium heat until heated but before boiling.
3. Remove from heat, pour into 2 cups and let steep for 5 minutes.
4. If sweetener is desired, add honey.
5. If using fresh ginger, strain before drinking.

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Readers, any suggestions for safer tattoos?

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The company did not respond to my request for additional information on the materials used in their pans but I’m guessing that it is a quasi ceramic coating.  You can read here about research that shows that quasi ceramic coatings released titanium dioxide nanoparticles into food and that chronic exposure to these nanoparticles can lead to immune disruption and pre-cancer lesions in the gut.  Again, I can’t say for certain that these pans use this coating, but I find that things that seem too good to be true, often are.

Question from Andy

Why don’t you wash it in the sink so you don’t need to worry about getting it on clothes in the washer?  The company does not disclose their formula but it is a petroleum-based product.  The Safety Data Sheet shows the following toxicity:

Question from TG

For tubs, porcelain-enameled cast iron or porcelain-enameled steel are the best choices, though they can be pricey.  You could also have a tub frame built and use all tile on the interior.

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Photo by Anna Earl on Unsplash

Debra wrote a guest post this week in response to a friend who asked her what hand sanitizer to use to protect against the coronavirus.  I wanted to build on the topic a bit more because this has been on my mind recently.  I spent many years when my children were young trying to avoid hand sanitizer; it was everywhere, from super-sized bottles in the classroom to miniature tubes swinging from backpacks.  I told my kids to politely refuse but to instead wash their hands…a lot.  I surprised them a couple of weeks ago when I passed them a bottle while we were flying home from vacation.  Given the rapid spread of the virus, I’m following the CDC’s recommendation to use a hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available.

Fortunately, you don’t need harsh chemicals to protect yourself.  Follow these preventative actions and learn more about the CDC’s guidance to create a household plan.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. According to the FDA, it doesn’t matter what soap you use.  Antibacterial soaps have not been proven to work any better than regular soap.  My favorite non-toxic brand is Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap.
• If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces using regular household detergent.
• Clean your phone! Apple recommends cleaning the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth and warm soapy water but warns against getting moisture in the openings.

Which Hand Sanitizers are Best?

Ideally, you want a hand sanitizer that includes the CDC’s recommended 60% or higher alcohol content but does not include unnecessary, harmful chemicals.  Fortunately, in 2019 the FDA banned 28 active ingredients for hand sanitizers, including triclosan and benzethonium chloride.   Here are some additional ingredients to avoid:

• Benzalkonium chloride is a biocide, preservative and surfactant that is associated with severe skin, eye and respiratory irritation and allergies. It is currently being reviewed by the FDA to determine if it is safe and effective for use in hand sanitizers.  It’s restricted for use in cosmetics in Canada and Japan.
• Fragrance as an ingredient can be a mix of undisclosed chemicals including phthalates. These mixes have been associated with allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress and potential effects on the reproductive system.
• Color Additives, labeled as FD&C or D&C followed by a color name and number, are sometimes made from petroleum and some may contain heavy metals. Some synthetic colors can be carcinogenic.
• Parabens mimic estrogen and can act as hormone disrupters.

Here are some non-toxic hand sanitizers (EWG rated 2 or better) that also have at least 60% alcohol:

• Everyone Hand Sanitizer (62% Ethyl Alcohol)
• Elyptol Hand Sanitizer Gel or Spray (70% Ethyl Alcohol).
• Dr. Bronner’s Organic Hand Sanitizer (62% Ethyl Alcohol)
• Whole Foods 365 Everyday Value Hand Sanitizer Refreshing Wipes (65% Ethyl Alcohol)
• Éclair Naturals French Lavender Hand Sanitizer (62% Ethyl Alcohol)

Why is Hand Sanitizer Not Good for Long Term Use?

Not only are hand sanitizers not as effective as hand washing, they have health risks when used frequently. Here are some risks:

• Regular use of antimicrobials such as benzalkonium chloride can lead to the development of resistant bacteria.
• Ethyl alcohol, which is the active ingredient in most hand sanitizers, and isopropyl alcohol are being evaluated by the FDA to determine if they are safe and effective for use in hand sanitizers. Alcohol can be drying and irritating to the skin.  It can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leaving it more vulnerable to attack from irritants, allergens, bacteria and viruses.

I plan to only use hand sanitizers during periods when there is a  high risk of infection.

Question from Terry

What hand sanitizer is the least harmful and would be strong enough for the virus?

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Glass has been used for centuries to store food and is generally considered to be the safest material to store things in.  Recently, there has been a lot of questions from readers about whether or not certain kitchen glassware contains lead.  Lead is not typically added to glass as an ingredient, except for leaded crystal, which is clearly disclosed on the label.  However, lead is everywhere in the environment and any raw material is likely to have some degree of lead contamination.

The first question we need to answer is, how much lead is in different types of kitchen glassware?  Then, the more important question is, does the lead migrate (leach) out of the glassware and into your food or drink?

Whenever I attempt to answer a question like this I first look to scientific studies from independent laboratories and research organizations.  There are many studies on migration from glass that generally show, with the exception of lead crystal, there is very limited migration of lead or other elements of toxic significance.  The most recent and comprehensive assessment is a two year study commissioned by the Food Standard Agency, which is an independent UK Government department tasked with protecting public health and consumers’ interests in food*.  The study looks at several different types of glass including:

• Soda Lime Glass Containers (bottles and jars, including colored glass)
• Soda Lime Tableware (drinking glasses and dishes, including colored glass)
• Borosilicate Tableware (European Pyrex bakeware is made of this but U.S. Pyrex is tempered soda lime glass)
• Glass Ceramics (brands such as Vision cookware and Corelle dishware)
• Decorated Glassware

A Note on Recycled Glass

The study speculates that the primary source of lead contamination is from recycled glass.  Colored glass, particularly green glass, typically has the highest amount of recycled glass.  Glass with a high percentage of recycled glass can have relatively high levels of lead content (some samples had up to 100 parts per million).  The study looks specifically at colored glass to see if higher levels of lead content result in higher levels of leaching.

The Results of the Study

Soda Lime Glass

Soda Lime glass is made with three ingredients – sand, lime and soda ash.  It’s the most common type of kitchen glassware.

When tested under conditions that replicate normal use, there were no detectable levels of lead migrating from any of the soda lime glass samples.  This means that even if the glass contained lead from contamination, it did not leach out into water.  This included colored glass and glass with recycled glass content.

When the glass was deeply scratch, to represent extreme use over time, all but one sample had no detectable levels of lead.  The one sample that did was made of amber glass which has the second highest level percentage of recycled glass.  The lead release from the one sample was still a relatively low level of 0.3 parts per million (ppm).  For perspective, the U.S. Office of Health and Hazard Assessment considers lead use in decorations on the lip of glass to be safe below 200 ppm.

When the glass was tested with a highly acidic solution, about one third of the samples had low levels of lead migration that ranged from 0.4 ppm to 1.2 ppm.

Borosilicate Glass

Borosilicate glass’ main components are silica, boron trioxide, soda ash and a small percentage of aluminum oxide.  It is more heat resistant than soda lime glass and is thought to be more inert.  It does not involve recycled glass which prevents contamination.  As expected, the borosilicate glass did not show any migration, even when scratched and when tested with an acidic solution.

Glass Ceramic

Like borosilicate glass, the glass ceramicware did not leach detectable levels of lead under any test conditions.

Decorated Glass

Decorations on glass can have high levels of lead content.  When tested under normal conditions, there was no leaching.  However, when the decoration came in contact with the acidic solution it showed high levels of leaching, with one sample at 30 ppm lead.

Other Toxic Elements

The study looked at other potentially hazardous elements in addition to lead.  Here are some key findings:

• Colorants, such as cobalt used in blue glass, did not leach.
• There was no detectable migration of aluminum from borosilicate glass even though it is an added ingredient in this type of glass.

Recommendations

Glass is generally a good, safe choice for kitchenware.  Here are some specific ways to avoid potential exposures.

• Always avoid leaded glassware.
• Always avoid using glassware with decorations that come in contact with food or drink.
• Always avoid glass not designated food safe.
• Avoid, out of an abundance of caution, glass with decorations on the rim or outside.
• When possible, avoid glass with a high percentage of recycled content. (Green glass typically has highest percentage).
• Look for borosilicate glass cookware and drinking glasses.
• Look for glass ceramic cookware (Visions, Corelle) but be aware of the risks of shattering.
• When glassware is deeply scratched, throw it out.

*The study was conducted by Glass Technology Services Ltd, which is an independent laboratory that services the glass industry, among other industries.  Any concerns about impartiality are offset by the knowledge that the conclusions are consistent with historical research.  The study is beneficial because it provides a broader assessment than other published studies.

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Photo by Clément H on Unsplash

Computers are an essential part of modern life but they are a source of many hazardous substances like heavy metals, brominated flame retardants, and PVC.

Fortunately, manufactures have been making progress in finding safer alternatives for some of the most harmful materials. In 2006, the European Union implemented legislation, known as RoHS, to regulate hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.  According to Greenpeace, computer manufacturers have significantly reduced their use of lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium and certain brominated flame retardants in order to comply with the new regulations.  These changes have been implemented by all companies and not only for the European market¹.

There’s still a long way to go to make computers safer.  A 2007 study by Greenpeace showed that bromine was present in over 40 percent of the components tested.    PVC was found in 44 percent of all plastic coatings of internal wires and external cables.  Phthalates were found in the power cables supplied with all laptops.  Certain toxic chemicals found did not exceed the EU standard but there are many hazardous chemicals found in laptops that are not covered by the standard.

If you are in the market for a new computer there are helpful tools available to find one with fewer toxins.  Greenpeace’s Guide to Greener Electronics 2017  grades manufactures on their efforts to reduce their environmental impacts.  One of the three criteria it uses is chemical management.  It evaluates the elimination of hazardous chemicals from the product and the manufacturing process.  The other criteria are energy and resource consumption, both of which have considerable impact on the environment.

The guide includes a report card for each manufacturer with an overall grade, as well as grades for each of the three criteria.  Apple received the highest grade, a “B”, for chemical management.  This is your safest bet for a new computer.

Chemical Management Report Card

Apple: B

Apple was the first electronics manufacturer to commit to eliminating PVC and BFRs (brominated flame retardants).  It has gone beyond RoHS standards to include additional hazardous chemicals such as beryllium, antimony trioxide and phthalates.  They have also committed to restrict benzene, n-hexane, toluene, and chlorinated organic compound.

Dell: C+

Dell originally committed to phasing out BFRs and PVC but has been unable to meet that goal.  Dell (and EMC) now have a 2020 plan to phase out environmentally sensitive material as viable alternatives exist.  They still have a goal to phase out BFRs and PVC but have not committed to a timeline.  They also have plans to phase out 4 phthalates ahead of the EU deadline.  Some laptops and tablets are now free of PVC and BFRs.

HP:  C+

The Elite series is free of BFRs.  All products except power cords and data cable are free of PVC.  HP has set a 2020 deadline to phase out remaining uses of BFRs and PVS as well as antimony and certain phthalates but only as viable alternatives exist.

Google:  C

All products are free of PVC and BFRs.  The grade is brought down due to lack of transparency of their list of suppliers.

All other manufactures listed, including Microsoft and Sony, score a C or lower for hazard chemical eliminations.

Additional Tools

Another helpful source is the The Green Electronics Council’s Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT). The system helps purchasers compare and select desktop computers, notebooks and monitors based on their environmental attributes.

Compared to traditional computer equipment, all EPEAT-registered computers have reduced levels of cadmium, lead, and mercury to better protect human health and the environment. They are more energy efficient, which reduces emissions of climate changing greenhouse gases. They are also easier to upgrade and recycle. In fact, manufacturers must offer safe recycling options for the products when they are no longer useable.

EPEAT products are identified as EPEAT-Bronze, EPEAT-Silver, or EPEAT-Gold depending on the number of environmental features incorporated in the product. You can search by manufacturer if you want to learn more about a particular product or you can search for Gold rated products.  If you click on the product you can see more details about the manufacturer’s management of hazardous substances under the heading “Substance Management”.  There is also an advanced search feature that allows you to search for information on specific chemicals such as chromium, beryllium, chlorine and bromine.

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Update April, 2020: Read more in the Portable Air Purifier Buying Guide

read more…

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I’ve gotten a lot of comments and questions about my posts on toxins in clothing and where to find non-toxic clothing.  It occurred to me that some readers may not be aware that Debra’s List currently profiles over 80 companies that sell all, or predominantly, non-toxic clothing.  You can either look through the entire list or search specifically for companies that use only botanical dyes.

I have been searching for more companies to add to the growing list.  The following five web-based companies have unique or hard-to-find styles.  All are committed to using non-toxic materials and production processes and are fully transparent. Three of the companies are based outside of the U.S. so ordering may be more of a challenge but their wide range of choices may make them worth the effort.

Mate

Mate sells California-style basics, dresses and sleepwear for women.  You can shop by fabric type which is helpful because some of their fabrics are better than others.  Their cleanest fabrics are GOTS certified organic cotton and Super Flax, which is 100% linen.  Their less optimal fabrics are slub cotton, which is not organic, and Tencil, which uses petroleum-based chemicals for processing.  All of their clothing uses low-impact dyes and the company is considering natural dyes for the future.

matethelabel.com

Brook There

Brook There is based in New England and sells organic cotton and silk underwear and minimalist lingerie.  The cotton is GOTS certified.  These items are a step-above most organic cotton undergarments.

brookthere.com

People Tree

People Tree is based in the UK but they sell and ship to the U.S.  This is a unique company with a full range of clothing for women, men, and children including denim, jumpsuits and outerwear.  The great selection may make it worth the hassle of ordering from overseas.  Just be aware, if you need to return items you will need to pay return shipping costs.  They use FLO certified organic cotton.  “Although FLO (Fairtrade International) is for cotton itself, goods made with the cotton have to be certified throughout the supply chain and adhere to strict social and environmental standards.”  Most items are organic cotton but some use Tencil or a percentage of synthetic fabrics.  The materials are clearly identified in the product description.

peopletree.co.uk

Thought

Thought is UK based company with a great selection of contemporary women and menswear.  The line includes hard-to-find items like work clothes, outerwear, and denim.  All finishes are Oeko-Tex certified and all dyes are Azo-free.  You can search for clothing by fabric, which is helpful because some are better than others.  Look for organic cotton, hemp and wool and avoid bamboo, Tencil and modal.  Some cottons include a small percentage of synthetic fabric like elastane but it is clearly listed in the description.

wearethought.com

Shift to Nature

Shift to Nature is based in Australia and ships to the U.S.  Returns are not allowed from orders outside of Australia but, like Thought, this company has a great selection of unique clothing for women, men and children.  You can search by fabric so look for organic cotton and hemp and avoid bamboo and recycled synthetics.

shiftonature.com.au

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I’m in the market for a non-toxic footstool for my husband.  He has a chair that he uses in a quiet corner of our house and would like to be able to put his feet up.  Since it’s not in a main room of our house, I’m not looking for investment-quality furniture but I would like it to look nice and be built to last.

I thought it might be interesting to show the steps I take and thought process I go through before I buy a new product for my home.

Identify a Trusted Source

A quick search of my go-to, non-toxic furniture makers, Medley and Cisco Brothers, confirmed my suspicion that all of their options would cost far more than I wanted to spend.  So, I went to another favorite source; Etsy.

I really like buying from Etsy for many reasons.  I like to support small businesses, particularly those that are women-owned, and handmade goods are generally environmentally-friendly.  Most importantly, Etsy sells many products made with natural materials and the artisans are often willing to customize when materials are not optimal.

Eliminate Problematic Materials

I chose to steer away from stools with wooden legs because it eliminates the need to evaluate adhesives and stains, each of which are potentially toxic.  I also chose to avoid leather because even vegetable-tanned leather can be processed with harmful chemicals.  This led me to focus on stuffed cushions or poufs to serve as a footrest.

Evaluate the Materials

Most Etsy shops do a good job of identifying the materials used in each item.  The more detail that the artisan provides, the more comfortable I feel that I can adequately assess the product.  I look for natural fabrics and fills and then make note of questions I have for the artisan.

I assumed that many of the items I looked at have a zipper so that the cover can be washed, but most didn’t list this as a material.  Though zippers are made of plastic, it is a minor exposure and I am not worried about it.

Look for Certifications

When purchasing fabric, it is optimal to find products certified by GOTS or Oeko-Tex.  Read more about certifications here.

Contact the Producer

I always like to verify the materials with the artisan and confirm that there is nothing else used in the product.

For fabrics, it’s important to know what types of dyes are used and if they have any treatments, like stain resistance.  This is often not specified in the description.

I also ask for verification of organic claims and certifications.

Finally, I ask about the ability to customize if there is a material that I would like to substitute for something less toxic.

My Search

I started by searching for organic poufs.  Adding the word “organic” to the search helps to identify products that attempt to use more natural materials.  It is a good filter but does not guarantee that the finished product is organic.  I found dozens of options and narrowed down my choice to three items.  Each have pros and cons.

Option 1:

Materials:

• Crochet part: natural linen cord
• Filling bag: natural linen fabric
• Filling: Styrofoam beads.
• Linen is not beached, no dyes used, 100 % pure Baltic linen

My Evaluation:

• The fabric for both the inner and outer fabric is undyed linen.It’s not certified organic but flax (which is used to make linen) requires little to no pesticides and can be mechanically processed into linen fabric with few chemicals.  Some cheaper linen can be processed with chemicals so I’ve reached out to the artisan to confirm that the linen is mechanically processed and to see if it has any certifications.
• I love that it is undyed because the dying process can be chemically intensive.
• Styrofoam beads are not something I would buy. Read more here about Styrofoam.  I confirmed that it is possible to buy this unfilled.  I would fill it with this GOTS certified organic cotton fill.

Option 2:

Materials:

• Exterior: 100% organic wool
• Interior: Organic linen
• Stuffed with high quality polystyrene beads

My Evaluation:

• I love that the wool and linen are organic. I have asked for confirmation of organic certification and also inquired about the dyes.  They look to be undyed but I want to be sure.
• Polystyrene is the same things as Styrofoam. Styrofoam is a trademarked brand name for polystyrene.  I would not buy this.  I have asked the artisan if I can buy the cover without any filling.

Option 3:

Materials:

• Filling: 100% Organic GOTS Certified Cotton
• Insert Cover Fabric: 100% Cotton, lightweight
• Zip-Off Cover Fabric:
  • • • • • • • • • • Max Cotton (100% Cotton)
                    • Canal (60% cotton/40% polyester)
                    • Mimos (50 % Cotton/50% Polyester)
                    • Bella (67% Cotton/33% Linen)
                    • Velvet (65% cotton/35% Polyester)
                    • Water/ Stain repellent fabric (60% Cotton/40% Polyester)

My Evaluation:

• This is the only option I found that has a GOTS certified fill. This is ideal.
• The insert cover is 100% cotton. There is no information about dyes or certifications.
• The outer cover is available in many options, including synthetic fabrics and stain repellent treatments. This raises concerns about the 100% cotton fabric.  Most cotton fabric is dyed and processed using harsh chemicals.  It seems unlikely that this cotton is organic or certified.
• Interestingly, this option has the best fill but the most questionable outer fabric.

While I am still waiting to get some answers from the artisans, I am leaning toward option 2, assuming I can supply my fill and the wool and linen are undyed.  If I can’t confirm the type of dye used on the wool, I will go with option 1 and use my own fill.  Either will be non-toxic and will get the job done beautifully!

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I try to buy organic or natural bedding but it can be expensive and I am not from the United States. For pillows I can’t use down/feather and want to avoid synthetic but all natural options are very expensive or have other issues (Kapok is very flammable). If I buy a pillow with a 100% cotton cover AND 100% polyester fill and the pillow is OEKO-TEX certified, does that mean the cover only is certified or both the cover and filling/batting is certified? Thank you so much.

Question from Adriana

I would like to know if there’s a wood and wood alternative cutting boards available that are toxic free; ie, they contain no formaldehyde, no mineral oil or any other toxin.  I’m looking for individual cutting boards for veggies, fruits and meats.  However, everything out there seems contain some type of toxin.

Question from Fran

I have chemical sensitivities and chlorine is one of my triggers. I just ordered filters (from Igor) for my kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and shower. Because Pure Effect does not have a whole house system anymore, I am also wondering about my laundry. What is your opinion of putting several teaspoons of sodium ascorbate into my washing machine with my detergent?

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Last week I wrote about toxins in clothing.  The thought of finding non-toxic clothing when there is so little transparency can be overwhelming.  Fortunately, there are many companies selling chemical-free clothing.  Here’s how to find them.

Debra’s List

There are dozens of companies profiled on Debra’s List that sell women’s clothing, men’s clothing and baby & kid’s clothing.  A good way to start the process of detoxing your closet is to focus on pajamas, undergarments and basics like tee shirts and jeans.  Here are some good sources to get you started.

Pajamas

Invest in a couple of pairs of GOTS certified organic pajamas.  This way, you will spend roughly one third of your day in chemical-free clothing.  It’s a good start.

Coyuchi

All of Coyuchi’s pajamas (and all of their other clothing) are GOTS certified organic cotton.  Their products are expensive but they are the highest quality and will last for years.  These are the most comfortable pajamas I have ever owned.

Undergarments

Try to wear GOTS certified undergarments so at least the clothing that touches your skin is free of chemicals.

Pact

You can’t go wrong with this brand.  “Super soft organic cotton.  No toxic dyes.  No toxic pesticides.  No sweatshops.  No child labor.”  All of their products are GOTS certified.  Great for underwear and socks.

Maggie’s Organics 

Maggie’s Organics is a great source for socks.  All of their products are GOTS certified organic cotton or wool.  Some of the socks have a small percentage of synthetic fabric for elasticity which is allowed under GOTS rules.  They have athletic socks which can be hard to find.  Maggie’s also has a full line of clothing and accessories.

Cottonique 

This company specifically provides clothing for people with skin contact allergies to latex and other common allergens.  While not certified by GOTS or Oeko-tex, they use organic cotton and are very transparent about the chemicals used in the process.  They focus primarily on undergarments and socks, but also have basic pants and tops for loungewear.  “All of our products are made from natural and chemical free 100% combed cotton material.  Our elasticized garments are made from a newly developed material that is both latex-free and spandex-free.  Our Cottonique fabric is…PH balanced to conform with the body’s natural acidic level and is totally free of dyes, bleach and textile chemicals commonly used in other apparel.”

Basics

Clothing basics like tee shirts and leggings that can fit often into your rotation will help you build a non-toxic wardrobe.

Pact 

Pact sells more than underwear.  They have a full collection of clothing for women, men, babies and children.

Coyuchi 

Coyuchi has recently expanded their clothing line and now sells tees, sweaters, cotton pants and shorts.

Sustainable Clothing Websites

The websites donegood.co, which is based in the U.S., and goodonyou.eco, which is based in Australia, feature brands that do good for people and the planet.  Be careful, though.  Not all brands or items are entirely free of harmful chemicals.  Fortunately, most of the featured companies are transparent about their materials and manufacturing processes so it is easier to find non-toxic options.  Many of the brands are GOTS certified.

Photo by Kai Pilger on Unsplash

Clothing can be one of the most challenging areas to navigate for people trying to live a non-toxic lifestyle.  Over 8000 chemicals are used in the production of clothing but the U.S. does not have a regulatory agency dedicated to overseeing textile production.  There is little transparency in the industry, but fortunately, some companies are beginning to restrict the use of the most hazardous chemicals.

What are the Most Concerning Chemicals Used in Clothing?

Formaldehyde:  Used to keep clothes wrinkle or shrink-free, and as a preservative for colorfastness and to prevent mildew, particularly when shipped overseas.  Avoid clothing labeled wrinkle-free, iron-free, permanent press, or stain resistant.  Washing will remove some, but not all of the chemicals.

Azo Dyes:  These are the most common types of dye used for clothing.  They release aromatic amines, a chemical linked to cancer.

PFCs:  Polyfluorinated chemicals are used for waterproofing and stain-resistance.

Heavy Metals:  Lead, cadmium and mercury are used in dyes and for leather tanning.

Flame Retardants:  Brominated and chlorinated flame retardants are still sometimes used in children’s clothing.

Other chemicals of concern include phthalates, ammonia, chlorine bleach, and high-VOC solvents.

What Types of Materials are Best?

Look For:

GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton or Wool:

Choosing clothing based on fabric alone is not enough to avoid chemicals.  Even organic cotton can be processed and treated with hazardous chemicals.  GOTS, The Global Organic Textile Standard, restricts the chemicals used throughout the manufacturing process.   The Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification also restricts chemicals used in the manufacturing process and covers both organic and non-organic fabrics.

Use with Caution:

Tencel:

Tencel is made from eucalyptus trees which are sustainable and ethically grown.  The chemicals used to process the fiber are petroleum-based but generally less toxic than those used to process cotton.

Linen (Flax):

Flax requires little to no pesticides and can be mechanically processed into linen fabric with few chemicals.  A cheaper alternative that is becoming more common, however, is chemically processed linen.

Conventional Cotton:

While much of the pesticides from growing cotton are washed off during processing, even small exposures to pesticides have been linked to adverse health effects. The processing of cotton is chemical-intensive, including steps to bleach, scour, dye and finish the fabric.

Rayon: