Question from Denise

Hello I am replacing carpet in the upstairs bedrooms. I have MCS and I am real sensitive. It seems as months go by I am getting more and more sensitive. Anyway I am not sure on which wood flooring to choose. I am looking at solid unfinished wood flooring that I will nail down. But theres a few to choose from. If anyone has any experience in wood flooring that would be great. I have a few choices from oak, red oak, maple, souhtern yellow pine, new england white pine, and hickory. I am so sensitive I am just afraid the wood might smell.

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

We’ve already discussed wood flooring a lot on this blog, but i see you are asking specifically about the type of wood, not the type of flooring.

If you are MCS, you’ll want to choose a wood that has fewer resins, thus less odor. Like you wouldn’t want trees known for their scent, such as pine, cedar, etc. Oak is generally fine.

Readers, what is your experience with different woods you like?

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Question from liz

Hi Debra,

Thanks for your wonderful site. I am looking for an inexpensive dust-mite barrier for my son’s mattress. Aller-Ease has a mattress cover (the “Original” style) made from polypropylene fabric with a polyethylene film. Do you think that would be safe? I know that you’ve stated that polyethylene is safe and doesn’t off-gas, but what about polypropylene?

If you don’t recommend that one, Aller-Ease also makes a cotton mattress cover. Do you know of any reason why that wouldn’t be safe? (The advantage of the Original is that it is waterproof).

Thank you!

Liz

Debra’s Answer

There is a slight toxicity to polypropylene that polyethylene doesn’t have. If the polyethylene is in the outside, I would say it’s fine.

The cotton one would be better if there is no finish on the cotton.

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Question from HEG

I am looking for some nontoxic rugs in a new apartment and I am being extra careful to select nontoxic ones due to the fact that I have an infant. I have found that the ones sold specifically as nontoxic by the sites that are recommended here are VERY expensive, and we simply don’t have the budget now for those. I noticed that IKEA sells 100% wool rugs. Are these toxic? What questions could I ask them about the rugs to determine if there is anything toxic about them? Are there are widely available stores that I should check out? Because we have an infant who is just starting to crawl it is important to me to have a very thick well-cusioned rug in case she falls because the flooring underneath is marble.

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

The main things you want to look for are backing materials and mothproofing. Often latex and jute backings have strong odors. Mothproofing is usually sprayed on wool carpets.

That said, I once found a totally nontoxic wool area rug at Home Depot, of all places. I still have it in my hallway and it has never had an odor, and I’ve never experienced ill effects.

I wish I could send you to “The Nontoxic Rug Store” at a mall near you, but unfortunately they don’t exist.

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Question from HEG

We have committed to a rental property and have noticed some lingering smells from fragrance products used in the unit. The floors are marble so they probably don’t absorb the odor too much 9I assume), but I was wondering if there is a sealant that we can apply to the walls over the paint to lock the odors in? I am assuming a new coat of VOC-free paint won’t suffice, but I was curious about whether any of the AFM sealers may do the trick?

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

You are right…a coat of VOC-free paint probably wouldn’t do it. As for the AFM sealants, you should contact them and ask for their recommendation.

Readers, do any of you have experience using any sealants to block fragrance odors?

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Question from Barbara

Are you familiar with these heaters? We’ve heard they are good but wanted to get your feedback.

Debra’s Answer

I went to their website at www.infraredappliances.com/ and called Customer Service. They were very helpful.

This is a unit that has a far infrared unit inside a metal box. The heat from the far infrared unit comes out the front, and does not heat the housing. Around the metal box you can have your choice of plywood or plastic housings, the plywood housings covered with your choice of wood veneers.

The representative said “this heaters do not outgas.” They are concerned with health as well as saving energy.

Has anyone actually used one of these? I imagine you might be able to special order it without the plywood or plastic housing.

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Question from Jenny

Hi Debra,

We live in a house that is about 40 years old and has wood casement windows. When we first moved into this house about 16 years ago, we had looked into replacing the windows but the gentleman that came out to give us an estimate was quite honest in saying that the windows we had were a good quality and we should just replace the weatherstripping and mechanisms. 3 1/2 years ago it was discovered that I have MCS and we are having to revisit the window issue. The windows are double pane but we live in Canada and the standard now is triple pane, so we do have some energy issues that we are dealing with and more importantly, mold issues on the window frames. When the temparture drops, water vapour builds up on the windows and has led to mold growth. I saw in a previous post you did that you had 40 year old wood windows and you prefered those over new windows. However, I wonder what you would do if you were dealing with the mold and heat loss issues we have. I would hate to have to replace these if I have another option. Do you or any of your readers have any suggestions.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any success with window replacement?

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Question from Amy

Dear Debra,

I would like to get your advice about using a laser treatment for a skin lesion on my face. The laser treatment would be at a dermatologists office.

I have some hereditary lesions on my skin that are quite small but noticeable and I would like to have the ones on my face removed.

I was told the most effective treatment was to zap it with a laser, but that it might require actual insertion of a needle and laser to get underneath the skin.

What do you think about the safety of this?

Also, would this be any different than, say, hair removal via laser, which perhaps is more readily researched? Are there any safety concerns with laser treatments of the skin.

Debra’s Answer

I haven’t researched this at all, and have not heard of any dangers just in the normal course of reading.

Readers, any experience with laser treatments or knowledge of possible dangers?

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Question from Terry Ann

Debra

I want to buy my dog a new leather collar, but can I assume that it is safe in terms of chemicals outgassing or leaching into his skin? I know leather is natural, but do they treat it somehow during the manufacturing process? My dog has immune issues and I worry about just about everything anymore that he comes into contact with.

Thank you! Terry and Dusty

Debra’s Answer

Leather itself is not toxic, as it is simply the skin of an animal. However, it may be treated with various different substances, some of which can be quite toxic.

I would contact the manufacturer and see how the leather used was treated.

I find some leather products to have quite an odor and others to have none at all.

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Question from Lisa

Hi, I am trying to find a chest or a small cabinet to store my dog’s dry food inside the bag. I am currently using an old large rubbermaid chest, and am worried about the plastic. I am looking for something fairly large – it could be a small cabinet or chest size for a 40 lb bag of dry food. Any ideas ? Thanks for your help.

Debra’s Answer

We store our cat food in a small galvanized steel garbage can, which you can buy at most hardware stores. It has a lid which keeps the cat food fresh and a handle that makes it easy to move if needed.

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Question from Lyn

Dear Debra,

My landlord wants to repair some cracks in the porcelain tub in my unit. Is there a non-toxic bottle of porcelain repair or should she just caulk those areas with the AFM Safecoat Caulk that I can tolerate?

Thanks for your incredible website,

Lyn

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know of any nontoxic porcelain repair. Use the caulk you tolerate.

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Question from JJM

Hey Debra…I wondered if you had time to look into this product I just bought and about to return from Protect-A-Bed…I saw this whole show just last week on Dr. OZ about bed bugs and when you travel and how these bugs do not discriminate and how easy they can be brought home.

So I invested a bit of money and ordered the mattress and box spring & two terry pillow covers. I washed 2 times in Seventh Generation free and clear and put them on. The smell was so annoying and made me dizzy. I called the company to return and they are…I have learned my lesson and will read the fabric next time. I just didn’t want bed bugs and freaked. I talked to a customer service rep there and sent her what I could about the following materials on your site to educate her.

On their packaging states: 100% Polyester (Main Panel), 100% Polyester (Skirt), Lining 100% Polyurethane all sides laminate! Any comments there!? I would like to send them your response. I have sent them that article from the Polyurethane.org about the safety of it like you posted once.

Debra’s Answer

If you are concerned about bed bugs, get Nature’s Defender Cedar Oil products. You can carry a spray bottle with you and spray the mattresses in hotel rooms. The cedar oil kills them. You can also spray this in your home if you are worried you have bed bugs.

It does smell like cedar, but the smell dissipates and it is not toxic.

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Question from ACC

I am expecting a new baby in 6 weeks and concerned about the baby nursing and sleeping on my mattress. From past experience, I anticipate that the baby will likely not sleep in his crib and will want to be with me. My current mattress is a king-sized mattress that I inherited from my mother. It is about 3 years old. I cannot afford to buy a new, king-size organic cotton/wool mattress. (My older son has a latex allergy, so NRL in a mattress is not an option.)

What are my options?

1. “Wrap” my mattress? I have heard that mattress works to contain VOCs, and yet I’ve heard other opinions, as well. The wrap is made of polyethelene — is that right? Is it safe?

2. Put an organic wool/cotton mattress cover on my bed to at least create a barrier (theoretically) between the mattress and the baby?

3. Do a combination of the above?

How long do mattresses outgas for? Do they outgas more or less as they get older?

Debra’s Answer

Mattresses outgas less over time.

Polyethylene wrap will help and outgasses less than the mattress itself.

A cotton/wool mattress cover will not block outgassing fumes.

Probably a combination of both would be your best bet. The polyethylene would block more emissions, and the mattress cover on top would give more comfort.

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Question from val

We had some water damage in our laundry room and today, the walls were repaired and painted. Unfortunately, they painted with Cloverdale Premium Eggshell – not VOC free. It does say on the can “VOC’s – less than 150 grams/litre”. I have 2 questions: 1. I don’t know if that is a worrying concentration. 2. Is there a way of correcting this, for example, if I paint over it with low VOC paint, will the VOC paint underneath continue to off gas. The painted area is roughly 10ftX10ft. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

California’s standard for VOCs–the toughest indoor air quality standard in the United States–is 250 g/L, so your 150 g/L could be considered “low VOC.”

Are you having problems with odors? I’m not sure you need to do anything. VOCs are very volatile and outgas quickly. If anything, I would heat the room to speed outgassing rather than putting another paint over it.

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Question from Dana

Hi all,

I’m wondering if any of you have tried the Nikken magnetic products for air and water purification (as well as general health). I’m wondering (A) if the “magnetics” theory holds any water at all, and (B) if it does, are the products so far superior to traditional air and water systems that they’re worth the hefty price?

Thanks for any feedback you have!

Dana

Debra’s Answer

I haven’t studied all their products in-depth (and their online catalog is very difficult to read), but specifically, magnets alone do not remove air or water pollutants.

My father was very interested in magnets for health and used to carry a couple magnets around in his pocket, but I think the question of magnets for health is entirely separate from Nikken products.

Readers, any comments on either Nikken products or magnets?

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Question from Judith

Is it safe to cook in chipped Visions Cookware? A few of my pots became chipped from vigorous cleaning on the inside when I cleaned off burned food. As much as I like this cookware, it does require vigilant survelliance.

Debra’s Answer

Visions is the same material through and through, so chipped Visions would be the same as unchipped Visions.

I should mention, though, that many people have reported safety issues with Visions shattering during use, though I have been using this cookware with no problems for more than twenty years.

My personal opinion on this is that risks and benefits need to be considered. Most people drive cars, for example, and walk across streets, even though people are killed in car accidents regularly.

I consider that the likelihood of my old Visions cookware shattering is less than the health danger of using cookware made from more toxic materials.

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Question from Texas Cook

I have tried to rid my kitchen of as much stainless steel as possible. I am learning patience when it comes to boiling my water with a Visionware glass pot and I have just now learned the secret to great non-sticking eggs in the cast iron skillet. My next big hurdle is the fact that I have always wanted a KitchenAid mixer. We now have the money to splurge on one and I find myself not wanting the metal mixing bowl. Is there such a thing as a KitchenAid with a different type of bowl? Is it okay to mix in this bowl as long as you do not leave the food in it after mixing? What about the metal wisk and dough hooks?

Thank you, Debra, for your Q and A blog. I continue to learn so much from it!

Debra’s Answer

Well, aren’t you lucky. KitchenAid 90th Anniversary Limited-Edition 5-Quart Stand Mixer comes with a glass bowl with a handle.

For those of us who want to replace our stainless steel bowls, the glass bowl will be available as a replacement bowl in 2010. I’ll be getting one for my KitchenAid.

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Question from Cheryl

Hi all,

I have a tough time battling weeds here in sunny, moist Florida and mulch with tons of compost, but the weeds still poke through eventually. I was wondering if a product sold by Gardeners’ Supply Co. would be helpful. It is Coco Fiber Edging which is recycled coconut fibers bonded with natural latex rubber. Is this non toxic? Thanks for any info or advice.

Debra’s Answer

I’ve not used this product, but it seems fine to me.

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Question from fwm

I have discovered that I am sensative to Formaldehyde and probably other indoor irritants. This was verified when I bought a dining table and found that it was manufactured in Viet Nam and was made with MDF. It is currently in the son’s studio with the chairs I bought degassing. (He doesn’t live at home anymore so it’s storage now.)

My husband works for an Industrial HVAC company and has ordered a Genesis Air Photocatalysis unit from his parts department. It was recommended by his in-house new equipment salesman.

Does anyone have experience with this unit for Formaldehyde removal? It’s $ 1,000.00 so I hope it works.

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Julie Burns

I am interested in purchasing a tagine for Moroccan cooking, and am wondering if anyone has purchased any brands they recommend and have tested them for lead?

Thanks!

Julie

Debra’s Answer

Ah…I love tangines. I have one I purchased many years ago in Germany that was handmade, so I don’t know any brands to recommend.

Readers?

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Question from shelley

Hi,

I had my basement painted with DRY-LOC waterproofing paint and I need to know how long to wait before bringing my parrots back into the house.

I am also having my ducts cleaned after removing molded paneling and floors down there before I run the furnace again.

Any experience and/or wisdom from avian experts out there? I want to be sure that I don’t hurt my flock.

Thanks,

Shelley

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Susan Spann

My dog needs a good multivitamin high in iron and fiber. But the one the vet sells is too expensive whilst the one we purchased at another chain store makes me sneeze. I have multiple allergies-food, environmental, contact and chemical! Are there animal vitamins without yeast, wheat, dairy or whatever is causing my sneezing fits in them? Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Linda

Help — a new hair stylist “forgot” my just-stated request for ‘no styling products’ and slathered my hair with a perfume-containing lotion. Thirteen hours and seven washes later I am still ill from the odor and moreso from the taste left in my mouth. Anyone have ideas on how to get this tenacious fragrance out of my hair — without hurting my hair or scalp any more than seven shampoos (with fragrance-free products of course).

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Question from Mary

In order to block out city and neighbor’s lights, I have hung cotton canvas drapes and a valance in the bedroom, and then attached two layers of fabric with safety pins. This arrangement is very heavy and bulky, so they don’t open very wide in the daytime, and then when it’s time to shake the dust out, I have to unpin and repin the layers to the draperies.

I’d like to find something easier to work with. If I have to pin something to the fabric, I’d like it to be only one layer. I am wondering about using barrier cloth. Would one layer block out light?

I have seen ads for drapes with an acrylic foam backing. I’m wondering how bad they smell and if I would need to wash them first. Is there anything else out there besides acrylic?

I live in an apartment, and I don’t particularly want to get involved with blinds. I would consider using a second set of curtains or drapes on a second rod, rather than two layers that are attached.

Debra’s Answer

I found some black cotton curtains at Target a couple of years ago. I think they still sell them. We get the morning sun in our bedroom, so use them in the morning if we want to sleep in. It doesn’t make the room pitch black, but does block a lot of the light.

I like your two sets of curtains idea. That’s what they do in hotels. You could use two sets of cotton or linen curtains.

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Question from charlotte

I’ve been elected to make Thanksgiving dinner this year and was wondering if anyone has experience using the Reynolds oven bags and if they are safe to use. The box doesn’t state what they are made of, so it makes me wonder, especially with all the bad stuff we’ve learned about plastics lately? I think if it works like it says it does, it would save on the soap and water necessary for clean-up after a traditional roasting.

Debra’s Answer

I wasn’t able to find out what they are made of either.

I wouldn’t heat my food in an unknown plastic in the oven.

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Question from Elizabeth

Does anyone know of a safe play gym? I have been searching and can’t find a real nice organic or safe one (or at least that I think might be safe. My daughter just had a baby girl this past summer and is no expecting on the baby’s birthday. Any help would be appreciated.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Gigi

We will be laying down Bellawood hardwood flooring with nails.

We will be laying down Exterior grade plywood over the top of an existing plywood subfloor. This is located over a crawlspace. The old tar paper has to come up. What we need to know what are our options regarding a moisture barrier? I read that the exterior grade plywood is considered a moisture repellant, according to wikipedia. Does this mean we can bypass placing tar paper between the plywood? Do I need a tar paper moisture barrier if I use exterior grade plywood underlayment? If we have to use tar paper, then what can we do to minimize the off-gassing?

Debra’s Answer

This question is a little more technical than I have experience with. I’ve laid a lot of hardwood floors, but never needed to use a moisture barrier.

I wouldn’t use tar paper. Can you use Tyvek? This is a plastic but it is very nontoxic.

Readers, what moisture barriers have you used under wood floors?

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Question from Kelly

Debra,

A friend asked me last night about what to use to remove the mineral deposit build up around her kitchen faucets that are surrounded by granite. I see by other postings here that vinegar is not an option. Do you or your readers have any suggestions for a non-toxic way to remove this build up? I’m at a loss as soaking in vinegar has been my faithful way to do this on my porcelain sinks/tubs.

Thanks for the help.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Clare

This may be too late to be of help to the person who asked this question back in 2007, but it might help others who are still wondering about Bon Ami. I too have noticed, in the past 3 – 4 years, an odor coming from Bon Ami; it seemed to be a chemical/perfumy smell (I am chemically sensitive, so this was quite disturbing), so I checked the ingredients and went on the website to see if anything had changed – but there was no indication of any change in contents.

I did finally discover the source of the smell. It’s from perfume chemicals(specifically, from the detergent aisle where it’s usually located) in whatever store the Bon Ami is sold in; the very active molecules of the chemical perfumes are absorbed quite readily through the paper seal on top of the canister and then into the powder; it may even get through the cardboard that the canister is made of, but the absorption through the top is more than enough to contaminate the product. I’ve found this problem in nearly every grocery store that I’ve shopped in, even health food stores (from scented candles & soaps). The fragrance chemicals are absorbed and/or coat everything that’s in the same space, including produce (so much for buying organic!)

My solution is to purchase as much as I can from online or order in bulk; I’ve recently found Bon Ami for $1.17 each, or $13.99 for 12, from Ace Hardware, although it remains to be seen (or rather, smelled!) whether or not it is odor-free.

Hope this helps someone!

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Denise Cueba

I’m looking to buy a bed for my 70 lb. German Shepherd. I was hoping to find something organic but my main concern is that it does not have anything toxic in it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

I would choose a pet bed with an organic cotton cover and natural fiber fill.

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Question from Laura

I am a MCS sufferer and for reasons beyond my control I live in a small town with alot of woodsmoke fumes, exhaust from the street we live on, and also formeldehyde fumes from the house itself. I want to find a good air purifier to get me through this until we can move.

I am looking at the Series 400 E.L.Foust

I think from what I’ve heard it has helped many.

I also saw some mention Aller Air . They have a dizzying array of models at hight costs. I would like to know if anyone with MCS has found Aller Air to be better than others or worse and if it compares with the Foust?

I also saw the Aireox purifiers but they are more for rooms and autos and I need a more extensive air purifier. I would like one of these for the car someday. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Debra’s Answer

Personally, I used the EL Foust 400 many years ago and it worked for me. Had one for my car too that plugged into the cigarette lighter.

Readers, what is your experience?

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Question from sarah

Hi Debra,

What is your opinion of EcoDent toothpaste? Is this a natural product and good for health – no additives, etc.?

Thanks!

Sarah

Debra’s Answer

First of all, Ecodent does not make toothpaste, they make tooth powders. I have used them and really like them–in fact I probably will be buying more very soon since I have been trying out some other tooth powders I didn’t like.

I actually prefer tooth powders over toothpaste. Ecodent toothpowders contain minerals and herbs, no sweeteners or sodium lauryl sulfate.

All Ecodent dental care products are fine with me.

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Question from Lucy Hemmendinger

I am having my attic insulated through a state program that will save me a lot of money. The contractors use blown in insulation, I believe made from recycled paper that may have ink on it. My concern is that when further work is done in the attic such as installing a ridge vent or removing mold, that the cellulose will be disturbed and tracked into the living space. It seems that any time a person went into the attic that they would track or spill some of the cellulose.

I am not sure if this is healthy insulation to have in the attic. it will be sitting on top of the existing traditional fiberglass insulation. I am also not sure how risky it would be if a bit of the dust tracked or trickled into the living space.

Does any one have experience with blown in insulation?

What are the risks, if any?

Lucy

Debra’s Answer

I know there are some readers out there who know more about insulation than I do. So I’ll leave this answer to them.

Readers?

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Question from CA

Hi Debra and all, I know you have only been recommending the whole leaf stevia, but I saw Sweet Leaf brand which seemed the most natural of the commercial brands. The type I saw only contained stevia (or stevia extract) and inulin fiber. What do you think of this in terms of health safety? Is it close enough to a whole food? Thanks for your help.

Debra’s Answer

If it’s a white powder (I’ve never seen it), it’s just as refined as white cane sugar, not a whole food.

Whole leaf stevia is easy to brew, like making tea. You can’t use it cup-for-cup as a replacement for white sugar, but you can add it for sweetness to things like smoothies and salad dressings, or soak fruit in it, and especially make iced herbal tea. I have it growing in my garden and I just pull leaves of mint and stevia and make tea for a very refreshing beverage.

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Question from Srini

I am trying to find a good shampoo which is totally natural.

Some people recommended Aubrey but that product does not produce lather at all and my hair was stripping due to the friction.

Any suggestions would be welcome.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Debbie

Hello,

I have not made my house green and am finding this website to be a valuable tool.

We just bought new kitchen cabinets which was a mistake. We are going to put them in a heated garage for at least 6 months before we install. Anyone recommend something to lock the VOC’s in. They are all wood cabinets but the stains and glues probably are not low VOC. Any help would be greatly, greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Debbie

Debra’s Answer

If you are airing the cabinets in a heated garage for at least 6 months, you probably will not need to seal them.

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Question from Lauri

Hi,

The edges of a few of the tiles on my kitchen floor have loosened, and are sticking up. I have tripped over them one too many times, and am afraid of getting seriously injured. The tiles, themselves, do not appear to be loose, just whatever is keeping them attached at their edges to the floor. Are there any products that are odorless and chemical-free that anyone can suggest to stick the edges back down? I am extremely sensitive to the odor from adhesive or caulk, and just don’t know what to use. Thank you, all, and a big thank you to Debra, for this wonderful newsletter.

Debra’s Answer

Just use regular white or yellow woodworking glue such as Elmer’s.

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Question from Debbie

I have MCS and really bad scent sensitivities. I am looking for a laundry stain remover without smells, without petrochemicals and that actually works. Do you know of any?

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Abby Sernoff

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

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

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Debra’s Answer

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

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

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Question from Mary

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

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

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

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

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

As always, thank you for this wonderful website!

Debra’s Answer

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

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

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

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

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Question from Gigi

Dear Debra,

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

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

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

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

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

Debra’s Answer

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

So, readers, what are your recommendations?

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Question from Hi Debra,

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

Thanks so much for all you do. I love your website!

Laurel

Debra’s Answer

OK. Here’s the deal on Scanpan.

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

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

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

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

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

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Question from bebe

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

Thanks,

Debra’s Answer

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

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Question from Linda

Hi, Debra I have a sofa question.

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

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

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

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

Debra’s Answer

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

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Question from Lisa

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

Debra’s Answer

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

For info on specific products, contact the manufacturer.

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Question from Lucy Hemmendinger

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

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

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

Any other cautions or concerns about a new dryer would be appreciated as well as happy ending stories.

thank you

Lucy with wet clothes

Debra’s Answer

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

Readers, what are your recommendations?

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Question from Mary Nagelmann

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

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

Does any one know about this product?

Debra’s Answer

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

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Question from Debbie

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

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

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

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

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

Debra’s Answer

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

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Question from Gigi

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

Debra’s Answer

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

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Question from Gigi

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

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from ac

I plan to move long distance from NYC to north carolina into a house. I need fresher air and a change of pace My question is the house is 10 years old. Should I be concerned that the drywall, cabinets etc are still outgassing? There hasn’t been anything recent done to it. BTW I have moderate MCS.

Debra’s Answer

After ten years, the original building materials are not outgassing, however, if you have MCS, I wouldn’t commit to a house sight unseen.

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Question from Linda

Hi debra, i was wondering if you could tell me the difference between organic cotton and kapok? If i were to make a bed pillow or a sofa pillow what product ( organic cotton,kapok)would be more comfortable and healthier to be around? We are going to be purchasing brand new bed pillow for the whole family around the beginning of the year and i am confused,i want the healthiest pillows available. We are going to be buying about 8 so i have one shot to get it right. Please any advice would be great. Thanks, linda.

Debra’s Answer

Organic cotton comes from the cotton plant and kapok is a fiber taken from the seed pod of the tropical kapok tree, also called the silk-cotton tree.

There’s a really good explanation and comparison of most of the natural fiber pillow filling materials on the GoodNight Naturals website at http://www.goodnightnaturals.com/wool-organic-cotton-pillows.html (even though the headline mentions only wool, cotton, and buckwheat hulls, scroll down and click on organic cotton pillows and kapok pillows. The characteristics of each are described to help you make a decision).

Question from Bridget

Hi. I have MCS and have it for three years now. I found a mercury-free dentist who is recommending I have all my amalgams replaced with a bio-compatible material. His protocol is in line with what others have posted about in a question about amalgam removal earlier in this blog. Whichever way I approach my two sore teeth and 4-5 amalgam fillings, it is very likely that in order to save teeth older, possibly corroded fillings (one, possibly two) will need to be drilled out.

It is my understanding that following the removal procedure I will want to take substances such as cilantro tincture or chlorella or both to assist in getting the mercury, which apparently gets stirred up during the removal process, to exit the body. Vitamin C and a good-multi vitamin was recommended on this blog, again earlier, but there was no mention of chelation.

Does anyone have information about mercury chelation they would like to share?

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Deborah Barnett

Debra, Do you know if collodial silver for a nose spray for sinus infections is allright to use?Their web site is http://www.silversinus.com.Thanks Deborah Barnett from Tenn.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Sara

Debra,

I know you highly recommend the extrema cookware but I’ve never heard you mention their steamer which is made of silicone. I want to buy a steamer and I’m wondering if a silicone steamer would be safe to cook in or if I would be wiser to stick with bamboo or stainless steel.

Thank you,

Sara

Debra’s Answer

We’ve had a lot of discussion on this blog about all three of those materials: bamboo, stainless steel, and silicone. Personally, I think any of the three would be fine, but not all my readers agree with me.

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Question from MP

I gave up trying to find a cradle and crib that it totally non-toxic and in the design I like so I’m having one of each built by a local woodcrafter for the nursery. My question is, I need a non-toxic (no voc if possible) wood conditioner, stain, and finish. What do you recommend?

Thanks!

~Melissa

Debra’s Answer

Readers, what have you used?

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Question from NS

I was wondering how long germs live outside the body. Like if somebody coughed into their hand and touched something and then I touched it.

Debra’s Answer

The expert answer from the Mayo Clinic is “the range is from a few seconds to 48 hours — depending on the specific virus and the type of surface.”

Click on the link to read more about controlling your exposure.

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Question from Blue Daisy

I am looking at the tarkett brand of fiber flooring. Does anyone have any info on this product or experience with it? It has been Floorscore certified does this mean it is safe? I could not find MSDS on the product. I am very mildly chemical sensitive. Mainly cleaners, perfumes, body products make me get hives etc. Plus have birds, so need to be careful. and plan and simple I like to be as green and non toxic as possible….

Any insight or help would be appreciated.

Thank You

B

Debra’s Answer

I went to the Tarkett website and found no information on what the Fiberfloor flooring is made from. So I called their Technical Resources department and was told that it’s sheet vinyl. Ordinary sheet vinyl.

But for some reason, a material that is usually quite toxic qualifies to be certified by FloorScore. A product bearing the FloorScore seal, developed by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI), has been independently tested and ceritified to comply with the volatile organic compound emissions criteria of the California Section 01350 program. This in an independent third-party certification process that recognizes products that protect human health by creating good indoor air quality.

You asked if this means the floor is safe. The volatile organic compound emissions criteria of the California Section 01350 program can be found at http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/greenbuilding/Specs/Section01350/. The list of VOCs is quite long–you can see exactly what the chemicals are that are monitored and what their acceptable limits are. I put that in italics because the acceptable amount is not zero, this is the amount they allow. So your Tarkett floor has been tested and found that it contains less than these amounts of this whole list of toxic chemicals.

These amounts are considered by the State of California to be safe for schoolchildren.

Here’s what I think. There are products that need no certification because they are made with materials that don’t contain toxic chemicals. Like ceramic tile. Or by the time they are manufactured and applied and cured, they don’t outgas toxic chemicals. Sheet vinyl is toxic vinyl with toxic plasticizers added to make it flexible.

Ceramic tile doesn’t need to be certified. All of it is nontoxic. So then a certifying organization comes along and says, “we’re going to certify these products to be low-emission,” Not nontoxic, “low emission.”

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Question from LV

HI-

I am planning a home birth in January and one of the items in my birthing kit is sterile lubricating jelly. The problem is all the MEDICAL sterile jellys I find all have parabens and are most likely petroleum based.

Any one have any suggestions maybe midwives or medical experts out there know safer alternatives? Midwife says it needs to be sterile.

I’ve been staying away from all chemicals and would hate to have to use these during the birth.

thanks in advance for your suggestions.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from HEG

Debra,

We have been searching for a new rental home in Miami for months now. We have so many environmental criteria and as a result it has been hard to find the perfect place. We finally found one with tile and hard wood floors (no carpet or laminate), no pesticides used, no new paint, not a new building, a non-smoker currently lives there, etc. Our only problems are that the current tennant uses a lot of artificial fragrance products – many candles, incense burners, glade plug-ins, fabreeze, etc. It is truly overpowering! My question is whether the dangers of these products will be gone once she vacates, and we have the place ventilated and thoroughly cleaned with green cleaning products (including a vapurclean treatment all over), or will the toxins linger? We have an infant so we want to be sure.

Also, is there any danger from using a clothes dryer that someone has previously used fragranced dryer shhets in?

Thank you for your feedback!

Debra’s Answer

Ideally, I would say err on the side of caution, but the house does sound perfect in other ways.

I can’t guarantee you can remove this fragrance. I’ve never personally tried to do that.

Readers, what is your experience with this? Any successful actions?

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Question from Lucyhem

I was very excited to try some of the suggestions for alternatives to automatic dishwasher detergent because I do not tolerate the Seventh Generation powder that I have been using. So I followed the recipe with washing soda, one teaspoon of Dr Bronners castile soap and vinegar in the rinse cup. I got a film on my glasses that I cannot get off. I have run them through the dishwasher with my old detergent, with a variation on the recipe and washed them by hand. The white film is hard to remove even by hand. I don’t care that much but my husband is very unhappy about the film. He thinks the glasses are dirty, even though I explained that they are not.

Any recipes for getting this film off, or explanations for what causes it and how to remedy it? I do not have hard water. I am afraid I am back to the commercial stuff because I have spent so much time trying to get my glasses clean.

Frustrated in Montague, MA

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Ruth

Last year I bought some non-toxic caulking material and it works fine. The apt. manager put it right over the old, thinning caulk. Now I find that there is black mold growing through the new caulking. I have MCS from mold exposures, so I am probably a “moldy” person. Is it safe for me to clean that all off myself, and what would I use. I like using a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda for cleaning up moldy residue on my sink area, but this is caulking. I don’t really want to ask the apt. manager to do it since I can’t trust him to do it right from the last experience. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.

Ruth/Wisconsin

Debra’s Answer

I wouldn’t clean it myself if I were you. Get someone else to do it.

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Question from Susan Webb

Hello,

As a grandmother of two small children I am much more aware of all the terrible toxins we have around us. I have been searching daily for lead-free Christmas tree lights. Does anyone know where they can be purchased? I have heard that they are available outside the US, in Great Britain? I certainly do not want to subject the children to any more toxins.

Susan Webb

Debra’s Answer

What you want to look for are lights that are “RoHS compliant”.

RoHS stands for “Restriction of Hazardous Substances.” RoHS originated in the European Union and restricts the use of six hazardous materials found in electrical and electronic products.

The substances restricted under the RoHS directive include lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (CrVI), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE). All products in the entire electronics industry in the EU market after July 1, 2006 must pass RoHS compliance. .

Here is a website that in Yorkshire England that “loves Christmas lights.” They are all RoHS compliant:

http://www.eadlighting.com/categories.asp?cat=14

Question from Bonnie

Have you ever heard of the magnetic laundry system that uses magnets in your washer and no laundry soap? It kind of sounds like a gimmic to me.

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any experience with this. I know magnets CAN change the quality of water, and it just may work to clean laundry.

Anyone have any experience with this?

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Question from Mehdi

Hi. We are looking for a mattress for our 3 year old, and in the proccess, are comparing various products in terms of price and toxicity.

Which product is safer in terms of outgassing exposure- conventional 100% natural latex mattresses or the Ultracel mattress?

Also, just heard that 100% natural latex products are made into foam using some man-made chemicals. Is this true? We are concerned about the overall outgassing initially and over time.

Unfortunately, the Essentia mattress is out of our price range at this time.

Thank you for your time, experience and caring.

Mehdi and Nancy

Debra’s Answer

Ultracel is made from the same polyurethane plastic as every standard foam mattress. I have no data that indicates that it is any less toxic than ordinary polyurethane foam.

Yes, some toxic chemicals are used to turn 100% natural latex into foam. How much of those toxic chemicals remain in the foam, I don’t know.

A better choice for babies would be organic cotton. There’s no chemical outgassing.

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Question from Cathy R DeVoe

Hi,

We are looking to buy an older rambler and make is MCS safe. Does anyone know what is better for us MCS sufferers? An Electric furnace with a whole house air filtration system and ultraviolet light in the duct work or radiant heat floors? And what kind of radiant heat floors? Thanks everyone and you especially, Debra!

Cathy

Debra’s Answer

I would probably choose the electric furnace with a whole house air filtration system and ultraviolet light in the duct work.

The heat from radiant heat floors can make the flooring outgas more than it normally would (although this wouldn’t be a problem with tile floors). But also radiant heat floors wouldn’t filter the air, if that’s something that is needed.

Readers?

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Question from heather

We recently purchased tempered pegboard and have mounted it under a piece of furniture in our bedroom. Although my husband does not notice an odor, the odor from it is very strong to me. I am 7 months pregnant and this could be why I smell it so strongly. I contacted the company who manufactures it (Decorative Panels, Inc.) and they said that there are no toxic substances used and the finish is mainly linseed oil. I am assuming this is what I am smelling. Because of the way it is being used, it is going to be quite a process to replace it with something else, but I wanted to know if you’ve had any experience with this product (or linseed oil in general). I am concerned since I am pregnant and the odor fills our bedroom (and our toddler spends most of the night sleeping in our room, too).

Debra’s Answer

You need to find out if the linseed oil is RAW linseed oil or BOILED linseed oil.

Linseed oil is oil squeezed from the flax seed.

Raw Linseed Oil is 100% pure flax oil, packaged with no additional additives or preservatives. Linseed oil sold for wood application is not edible. It dries very slowly, taking weeks to fully cure. It helps wood retain its natural moisture content, which reduces cracking, checking, shrinking, and aids water repellency.

Boiled Linseed Oil contains chemical solvents to speed film drying and hardness.

It is not actually boiled, the term just indicates chemicals have been added.

e dealer. Boiled Linseed Oil would cure faster and shouldn’t have an odor after several weeks. If it’s raw linseed oil, it’s likely you are smelling the linseed oil itself, which isn’t toxic.

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Question from Mary

I’ve been discussing laundry with the woman who works for me. Her husband does carpentry and they need something that removes odors- sweat, chemicals, etc. They do not have a clothesline.

Currently they are using a Tide product that is heavily fragranced. They don’t think Tide’s Free and Clear (or whatever it is called) does the job.

Can anyone recommend a detergent with little or no fragrance that removes odors? Has anyone had experience with adding borax?

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from kb

hello .. i’ve recently been diagnosed with a strange nickel allegy – it doesn’t affect my skin , but causes my lips to react with red bumps. i’ve been advised to eat a nickel-free diet (which includes no lettuce, no chocolate, no shellfish… an extremely long list of things you’d never expect). Right now I’m using a vanilla-flavored lip chap which doesn’t include nickel as an ingredient, but was wondering if there were any lip chaps out there that would definitly be nickel-free.

Thanks!!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know offhand, but maybe one of my readers will answer.

Could you post your list of foods and things you need to avoid because they contain nickel? I’m sure others would like to know this, including me.

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Question from Annette Tweedel

Hi Debra,

We have a window air conditioner in our bedroom that needs to be sealed with aluminum foil tape inside the vents to block off outside air. Is aluminum foil tape safe for an MCS person or is there something safer to use?

Thank you so much for your time.

Debra’s Answer

Aluminum foil tape is used by many people with MCS because the aluminum in the tape blocks fumes from the adhesive and anything you attach it to. I know of nothing safer.

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Question from Emily

Hi all,

We just set up the baby’s (very non-toxic) wooden crib and I had to get my husband to make homemade bed risers for the legs of the crib so get it at the right height to the bed, so we could have the crib mattress at the lowest setting but still have her right nearby. We bought wood bed risers from the store, but they smelled SO toxic to me that I returned them after using them one night. So the homemade ones he made are just carved from a block of fir…But now we want to finish them to make them darker (to match the crib so they don’t stand out so much) and to also protect them.

I wanted to use a totally non-toxic finish, so I thought about beeswax. I looked online and found tons of beeswax finish recipes, but they all have turpentine! (And mineral oil, which I don’t mind using, but not turps…)

Would it be Ok to make a wood finish with just mineral oil and beeswax? What would be the downside to NOT using turpentine?

Does anyone have a good wood finish recipe?

Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Sho

Anyone know of a non-toxic hotel or B&B in the Boston area? I haven’t been able to find one online.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Debbie

I appreciate this website so very much. It has helped to educate me about the things that make me sick. So thankful for all your very good information.

My question is that I have a “red and raw” irritation. The doctor had no advice for me once he ruled out infection. I have been trying to figure out the cause. I started wondering if toilet paper could do this to me. (That is where the problem is) We use some that we buy at Costco that is very white. The paper has no fragrances.

Could that be at least a cause of the rawness? I would appreciate any information or advice you can give me. Thank you so much.

Debra’s Answer

Toilet paper could certainly be the problem. Even if there is no fragrance, the paper itself could be an irritant.

We use Scott 1000. I know there is recycled toilet paper, but I don’t feel comfortable using recycled paper for this purpose. I don’t know what toxic materials might remain in the recycled paper of that rough quality.

You could also use a bidet. This website has a little video that shows how a bidet works: www.biffy.com/.

And check out this blog for more discussion on toilet paper: ReNest: Green Alternatives to Toilet Paper.

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Question from Hope Fox

We are considering using formaldehyde-free fiberglass insulation in our new home, and have three questions:

Would you consider the acrylic binders used to be a problem?

Anything else to look out for (presumably batts without paper or plastic covers would be best)?

Can anyone recommend specific brands?

I have often heard Miraflex by Owens Corning recommended, but they stopped producing the product several years ago.

Johns Mansfield has a few products: www.jm.com/insulation/building_insulation/4483.htm

Debra’s Answer

I’ve been recommending the Johns Mansfield because it’s easy to get at Home Depot. I haven’t personally used it.

Readers? Your experience?

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Question from Jennifer

I just purchased a Vivetique innerspring, organic cotton/pure grow wool mattress. (I am MCS and react strongly to chemicals.) The first morning after sleeping on the mattress I felt bad. All my usual chemical exposure symptoms came on: fatigue, stiff joints, nausea, lung pain, headache, pain under my arms, anxiety.

I can’t possibly understand why this is happening. These mattresses are promoted as chemical-free, nontoxic, okay for MCS, and clean. The mattress has a smell, but it smells like natural wool to me (the smell reminds me of a wool/cotton futon I once had).

Can anyone help? I have no idea why this would be and I’m seriously upset and depressed.

Thank you,

Jennifer

Debra’s Answer

Being MCS, you are in a different situation than people who are not MCS.

For a normal healthy person, one can assess the purity or toxicity of materials and choose accordingly, and not have a TOXIC exposure.

People with MCS can react to all sorts of safe, natural materials that are NOT TOXIC. This is an individual sensitivity. The material itself can be perfectly safe, yet you can still react to it.

In my opinion, people with MCS need to be extremely cautious about any claim that something is “safe for MCS”. There is no such thing that is safe for every person with MCS. Just read the posts on this blog. One person will recommend something they can tolerate and another person will say they couldn’t tolerate it at all. Instead of saying “safe for MCS” retailers should say, “We know many people with MCS tolerate this, but individual sensitivities vary and you may not tolerate it.”

I know it’s a challenge for MCS people to find products they can tolerate. You can get some clues from this blog regarding products others have tolerated, and I’ve marked entries on Debra’s List with an “MCS” for websites that are familiar with MCS and carry products that are likely to be tolerated.

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Question from Peter Drew

My wife, Joanne, has given up trying to buy commercial, off-the-rack clothing, organic and otherwise. She is chemically sensitive and was just diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism. We’ve discovered that even organic clothing can be contaminated by formaldehyde fabric treatments in manufacture.

In our latest failed effort, I purchased two pair of pants for Joanne from an online retailer that sells only organic clothing for women. This company contracts with a clothing manufacturer here in the US to make the clothes. Supposedly, the pants were washed only in cold water after they were made, but I was not told how they were dried. The only guess Joanne and I have is that the clothes were dried in a dryer also used for clothes with fabric treatment and picked up the formaldehyde-based resin from the dryer. Joanne is highly sensitive and actually allergic to formaldehyde. So, the pants are no good to her, even after many washings in baking soda and vinegar.

As Debra has pointed out in responses to questions about formaldehyde-based fabric treatments, the treatments never wash out entirely. They are resins, which are designed to stick very tightly to the fabric’s fibers and not let go. That’s why some clothing brands claim that their clothes don’t need ironing even after 50 washes.

We’re looking for an individual, preferably in a home business, who specializes in sewing pants and shirts for chemically sensitive people, and can work from measurements and organic fabric we supply. It’s important, of course, that the sewer be fragrance-free.

Please reply to this post with any recommendation you might have anywhere in the US. Joanne’s down to a few outfits and they’re really starting to wear out. Any help in locating a sewer would be truly appreciated. Thank you very much.

Peter in CT

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Debbie

I read that some vinegars are processed with petrochemicals. Do you know if that is true? How would one find out if a certain brand is processed with petrochemicals or not?

Thank you for your help and your wonderful website.

Debra’s Answer

It’s not that vinegar is processed from petrochemicals, it is made from petrochemicals. Heinz is one brand that is made from plants. Look on the label. If it doesn’t list a real food source, then it’s made from petrochemicals.

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Question from dt

Hello,

We are looking to replace our wooden decking outside, wanting to get into ‘composite’ low/no maintence decking.

This is mainly ‘plastics’. Is anyone familiar with ‘re-usable’ decking products that will not harm the environment or us?

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

I actually like composite decking because it’s usually made of recycled plastics (instead of sending them to a landfill) and because they are outdoors, the small amount of outgassing is more diluted than if it is indoors. And it will last much longer than wood.

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Question from Erna

As I am (still) in search of the perfect sleep sack for my baby, I have found a company called Passport Baby – they claim to not sell “kinder sacks” (sleep sacks) that have flame retardant, but the warm sacks are described thusly: “All cotton fabrics, polyfil has a hypo-allergenic quality to it as well.” What is “polyfil”? Is it bad for my baby?

Also, I think I have found a crib, but I have a question about the stain. It is by Tried & True Wood Finishes, here is how they describe their product:

“All Tried & True Wood Finishes comply with the inner most circle of product safety established by the FDA: “safe for food contact surfaces” (FDA 21,Sec 175.300). Beeswax and natural varnish resin are FDA approved as non-toxic and non-allergic. Non-hazardous. Our products, and or any of their ingredients, are not regulated under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (Title 40) or the EPA Resource and Recovery Act(Title 49). Our oils are non-toxic and non-flammable (Although common sense and our label should be consulted for disposal of wiping cloths). The use of these finishes in commercial applications is not regulated by OSHA. No heavy metal driers. These metallic salts of cobalt and manganese are a health risk to those who manufacure them. In use they areconsidered a health risk only in long term exposure. Fume Free – Zero VOC.No solventsor petroleum distillates are present in Tried & True Wood Finishes. Therefore, there is nocompromise in environmental impact, worker health and safety, or indoor air quality.” This sounds safe to me but I am wondering if I am just getting desperate (I have been researching cribs, mattresses, sleep sacks and varnishes for two weeks now!) So…how desperate am I?! THANK YOU!!!

Debra’s Answer

Polyfil is polyester, a plastic made from petrochemicals.

Your wood finish sounds fine, but I have no personal experience with it.

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Question from Kelly

I’m wondering if you or your readers have had any experience traveling in China? I have MCS and am concerned about air quality and the challenges of finding “scent free” hotel rooms, etc. Two of the locations would be Shanghai and Harbin and the travel would occur in January or February so it will be cold which means no open windows. My husband has a business trip there and I’ve been invited, but am very concerned as I’ve read about the extreme air pollution and already know the challenges of trying to find acceptable hotel rooms in the US. Any input would be most appreciated.

Thanks much, Kelly

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Aimee

We have bought a home in the country and the previous owners have let their pets pee all over the carpets, so we are going to pull up the carpets and, so we can move in quickly, we are thinking of sealing the subfloor underneath and then painting it with low or no VOC paints and then later we’ll put in hardwood flooring when we can afford it.

So, what we are wondering: Is there a water based wood sealer that is non toxic that we can use on the subflooring that is very effective and very safe?

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

My favorite wood finish at the moment is Vermont Natural Coatings. Made in part with whey leftover from nearby cheesemakers.

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Question from MK

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

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

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

“made by grinding flexible polyurethane foam into small particles and bonding them together with a chemical adhesive”

–krispyclean.com

“made from reclaimed scrap of high-density urethane foam used in furniture and automotive manufacturing”

Debra’s Answer

My best recommendation for you is NO CARPET. 1-2 years old isn’t enough.

I’m not sure why or how Carpet Guard made it worse, as there is no odor to this product (unless they changed the formula since I used it years ago).

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Question from DBrown

I have been up coughing all night and found your website while trying to search for an “indoor air specialist”. Yesterday I recieved the wall unit that I had designed and ordered for our bedroom. Right away I smelled a strong odor in the room and was concerned about chemincal exposure because I am pregnant. I know that because I “designed” this unit it is not “returnable”, however I am feeling like if there were chemicals used in the processing of this piece of furniture that are making me cough I should be able to do something right?? It was very expensive and if it is possibly making me sick and maybe even my little one I want it out of here! Is there someone that can come in and tell me if the level of chemicals in that room is toxic or safe so that I can tell the company to take back the furniture and give me my money back?

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Yes, you can have someone come in an test the air, but it may cost you more than the price of the furniture.

I suggest you start by telling them you were coughing all night and want to return it. Since it is custom, they probably won’t. They may, however, consider they have a moral obligation to not make you sick with their furniture.

This may be an expensive lesson. Do you know the materials and finishes used? Today it’s important to consider materials and finishes BEFORE you order and get samples.

I once had a client who installed thousands of dollars of built-ins for his wife all over their bedroom and closet. They were all particleboard and they made her so sick he had to take them all out. She wasn’t particularly sensitive to chemicals before this installation, but all that formaldehyde pushed her immune system over the edge.

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Question from Lauri

A friend recently was kind enough to give me a used fax machine and a used printer. However, he wears A LOT of cologne, and both of the machines reek of it. We have let them air out on our patio table outside for almost a week, but there is no change. Is there anything I can do to get rid of the perfume smell?

I am very chemically sensitive, and can not bring these items in with this odor, even thought I really appreciate somebody giving them to me.

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from 02138Jeff

Hi Debra,

Great site! Thank you and your community for all the excellent insight and advice!

I’m hoping you can help me with a question I have regarding natural deodorants.

I gave up using deodorants containing aluminum several years ago and have used several natural products since with varying degrees of success.

Recently Tom’s of Maine created a new deodorant that claims long lasting 24 hour protection. The ingredients include Zinc Ricinoleate to absorb oder. Is Zinc Ricinoleate safe or is Tom’s just replacing one unsafe metal(aluminum) with another(zinc)?

Thank you for your help!

Debra’s Answer

Tom’s of Maine has a good explanation of zinc ricinoleate at www.tomsofmaine.com/products/ingredient-detail.aspx?id=27&name=Zinc, which is consistent with explanations I have found elsewhere.

“Zinc ricinoleate is a zinc salt of ricinoleic acid. The zinc source for the material is zinc oxide while ricinoleic acid is a purified fatty acid from castor seed oil, a vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant.”

It’s not a toxic metal. In fact, many people have zinc deficiency and often take it as a dietary supplement.

As long as we are talking about deodorants, I stopped using deodorant of any kind about six months ago (maybe more). Not one person has recoiled from my body odor or mentioned it. While on our recent trip to Germany, my husband asked me, “Can I use your deodorant?” and I laughed and told him I hadn’t been using deodorant for months! Now if HE doesn’t think my underarms smell without deodorant, as close as he is to me, I think I don’t need deodorant after all.

Question from Cathy DeVoe

I have heard that the pressed, environmentally friendly java logs put out less particles and could possibly be used in a wood stove. Does anyone know about this?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any experience with these. Readers?

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Question from Erna Gregory

Here’s my question: Is this a completely safe, nontoxic alternative to a 100% organic wool mattress?

www.colgatekids.com website says:

Thanks,

Erna

Debra’s Answer

Coir is coconut fibers held together with latex. Many babies are allergic to latex. And it’s not organic.

I prefer the organic wool mattress.

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Question from HEG

Debra, I was wondering whether you think carpet is more or less toxic than laminate (pergo) flooring? we are having a hard time finding suitable wood or tile and if we have to settle I am curious which you think would be a less bad option.

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

I personally would not live in a house that contains either.

Your best options are ceramic tile or prefinished solid wood. I’m sure you can find some. Home Depot and Lowe’s both sell prefinished wood floor tiles for $1 a square foot.

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Question from KJ

Nowadays, most of the window shades have acrylic foam lining to block out the sun. It is hard to find just cotton shade with extra lining. I have looked at some at Country Curtains.

What do you think about these lining? Also, when cotton/polyester curtains/shades are exposed to Florida sun, does it off gas?

Thank you

Debra’s Answer

I wouldn’t put an acrylic window shade on a Florida window. Heat makes plastic outgas.

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Question from Bonnie

My husband told me this morning that he used my pumice stone on his feet. I’m not crazy about sharing personal items, like toiletries. Is a pumice stone one of those things that habor germs? And is there a way to clean a pumice stone or should I buy a new one?

PS I am new to this website and I LOVE it!

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any info on this?

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Question from Bonnie Johnson

Hi Debra and Friends,

I am going to have a pre finished hardwood floor installed this winter in my small kitchen. My contractor just gave me a pamplet on something called Sound Solutions that is used under the flooring for noise control. He is always searching for things I can use during my remodel.

Debra I am really afraid of some wierd smelling thing.

Has anyone heard of this product or know if it is toxic? It mentions some kind of hypoallergy treatment that is supposed to be safe but after my reaction to Macrobid stuff I don’t want to make myself sick.

I tried to download the MSDS sheet but could not get to the part about toxins.

Thanks,

Debra’s Answer

I looked at the Sound Solution product literature.

It says the product is made from polyester fibre, manufactured from a high percentage of previously recycled polyester fibre (from PET plastic). Polyester itself has very low toxicity. “100% polyester fibre without the need for any chemical binding agents or adhesives. QuietStuf® does not contain, release or use any restricted ozone depleting substances in its composition or manufacture. There are no known hazards with the use or handling of Autex polyester insulation materials. QuietStuf® is non-toxic, non-allergenic, and non-irritant.” They also exceed GREENGUARD VOC limit requirements.

I don’t see where it mentions a hypoallergy treatment.

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Question from Mary Marston

It’s getting difficult to avoid tagless garments for adults. Is tagless categorically bad stuff, or does it depend on the ink used, the sensitivity of the wearer, etc.? If you don’t have an obvious allergic reaction to the ink, does that mean it is safe to wear?

Debra’s Answer

I think that there are probably several types of inks used to print the tagless tags, which may be of varying toxicity. I primarily wear 100% cotton tank tops with tagless tags. None of them have irritated my skin, nor did they have an odor. Some washed out entirely faster than others.

I don’t consider tagless tags to be a major toxic hazard. If fact, I personally actually prefer them to the scratchy polyester fabric tags that are very uncomfortable for me. I know many babies and children have developed rashes and some companies have changed their inks.

That said, some sensitive adults may very well react to them.

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Question from Christy G.

How do you suppose we women could rid ourselves of this little bit of flab?

I am 5’2″ and weigh in at about 140lbs. Most of that weight is in my thighs and tummy. I am 23 years old.

I love the book, Eat fat Lose fat, and have applied most of it to my daily diet (i.e., cod liver oil and coconut oil every day).

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Readers, what successful experience do you have with this?

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Question from heather

Hi Debra,

With all the new things we know about plastics, do you know what the water lines used to dispense water from our refrigerators are made out of? I think about water sitting in the lines overnight or for long periods during the day, and chemicals from the tubing leaching in the water. My husband hasn’t caught me dumping out the “first glass” before each use, but when he does, he will think I’m crazy. Am I, or do I have a legitimate leg to stand on? Thanks for your help!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know for sure what type of plastic tubing is used in refrigerators, but most plastic tubing is polyethylene, one of the safer plastics. Yes, any water sitting in any plastic tubing will get plastic into the water, so tossing out that first cup is a good idea.

You can also replace the tubing with a braided stainless steel line. but that would then leach metals.

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Question from heather

Hi Debra,

We recently purchased a new home that has Closet Maid vinyl-coated shelving in the closets. The home is about a year old. Oddly enough, two of the closets have a strong odor whenever I open them (I am not sure why the others do not). I read that Closet Maid vinyl-coated shelving is actually made to be less toxic than the others and do not off-gas as much. However, with one of the offensive closets being in my son’s play room, I am concerned that he is breathing in phthalates and other toxins whenever he opens the closet to get his toys. Should these still be off-gassing after a year? (I still don’t know why I only smell this certain smell in only two closets.)

Debra’s Answer

Vinyl-coated shelving could still be releasing phthalates after a year. I would remove them.

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Question from Krissy

I just purchased two Paula Dean Enamel on Stainless, a 12 quart stock pot and a oven roaster. I used Lead Check testers and they tested negative for lead. I contacted the company to see if they test for cadmium and lead, they have not gotten back to me with any answers yet. Are enameled on stainless steel a safe option for cookware?

Debra’s Answer

Enamel on stainless steel is fine. I just don’t usually recommend it because enamel chips easily.

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Question from Krissy Hughes

Does anyone know if swiffer dusters are safe, I just saw the posts dicussing the liquid solution in the swiffer liquid jet product and it made me concerned over the swiffer dusters I have. I’m wondering if thet contain anything toxic? I have the unscented disposables.

Debra’s Answer

I have no personal experience with these, but the product description online looks like it is some kind of synthetic microfiber that does a super job at picking up dust. Usually these fibers are not treated with anything toxic, but the synthetic fibers are not biodegradable.

Anyone have any experience with these?

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Question from beebes

I have a 2 year old and we have had a bad year with respect to illnesses — we’ve had norovirus and flu twice (once with very high fevers lasting over two weeks). I try to keep toxic chemicals out of our house, particularly in cleaning supplies. So I’ve been looking for a cleaner that can disinfect and kill norovirus, H1N1, etc. Vital-Oxide was recommended and is on the EPA approved list. Any thoughts, either on Vital-Oxide or other disinfectants?

Debra’s Answer

Vital-Oxide looks fine to me in terms of toxic exposure. It does not contain toxic chemicals, but rather uses oxygen to oxide bacteria and mold.

My only concern is that the website says it is in the form of nanoparticles. Still, I think this would be a better choice that toxic chemicals if you must use a disinfectant.

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Question from Cathy DeVoe

Hello Everyone,

Does anyone know if a propane furnace will affect a person with MCS? It will have a whole house electonic air cleaner attached. We would use carbon monoxide sensors in the home. Thanks for your input.

Cathy

Debra’s Answer

I don’t recommend gas heaters of any kind because they product toxic combustion by-products.

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Question from Heather Hill

I recently purchased used silverware (silver plated) and would like to clean them up. Could you recommend an Earth Friendly/natural silver polish ?

Thank you,

Heather

Debra’s Answer

In my book Home Safe Home, I recommend removing tarnish from silver by magnetizing it away.

You just use aluminum and salt in any form–like a crumpled piece of aluminum foil and table salt–and put it in a pot of water. Add the silver and let it sit. The tarnish will come right off. I demonstrated this on TV once, years ago.

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Question from klh

How long does it take wallpaper to outgas and become nontoxic?

Debra’s Answer

It depends on the wallpaper. If it is vinyl wallpaper, quite a while. Years.

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Question from L.A.

I’ve just purchased a used Room and Board sofa. The fabric is a kind of micro-suede,and the tag reads “resin-treated polyester.” I tried calling R and B, but they had no further details. I’m concerned that this may be the toxic PTFE Resin that the EPA has issued reports on. Any ideas?

Debra’s Answer

I have not a clue as to what this sofa might have been treated with some time in the past.

Your best bet is to call Room and Board and ask them. They will need some kind of model number, which should be on a tag somewhere on the sofa.

It’s probably not PTFE, but is probably a stain-resistant resin containing formaldehyde.

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Question from Sandy

I have fleas in my house. My dogs are primarly inside, but go out to potty. This is the first summer ever that they bring fleas back in on them. The fleas love my furnitur as well. What would you reccomend to kill the fleas in my furniture.

Debra’s Answer

Go to Nature’s Defender Cedar Oil products. Type “fleas” into their search box and you will get “In-door & Out-door flea, mite & bed bug eradication kit”. That should do it.

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Question from Reenie

At the vacuum center today, they were selling Super Gel beads for areas that have an odor and/or damp areas. Instructions say just open the jar or put in a shallow bowl. The ingredients label lists water, a variety of essential oils and soya. But I wonder what makes them a gel? The soya? The owner of the shop told me the individual gel beads eventually get small and hard, about the size of a grain of rice. Has anyone done research on this or used them? I wonder if this product is a) safe for life including humans, pets, fish etc., and safe for the environment. Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

There’s a lot more information on their website: www.fresh-wave.com/.

I saw this too, at a hardware store, and it looked interesting. It is 100% natural, made with natural extracts of lime, pineneedles, aniseed, clove, and cedar wood, along with soy. So if you have MCS, you probably don’t want to use this because some of these oils are highly reactive. But I don’t see any reason for an average healthy person not to use it.

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Question from Reenie

Hello, Are there any books or online resources that are helpful to others wanting to create a Green Team in their workplace? Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Jill

Does anyone know what nontoxic sealer or wax can be used on a concrete countertop? Can beeswax be used?

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Alyssa

Dear Debra,

I have a question about graphite from a pencil embedded in the skin near a vein.

As a teen, I had a pencil puncture my skin in school, and a piece of graphite has been embedded ever since, for over a decade.

Over time, the graphite piece has gotten smaller and smaller. I did speak with a doctor about it at one point who told me that it was likely surrounded by scar tissue and not causing any problems.

However, recently, I’ve begun to feel pains and aches in just that area where the graphite is located.

Also, I have had slow, but consistent hair loss on my head for the last decade. It started about a year after the pencil wound, and has been consistent since then. I am female and have lost a great deal of my hair and my hair that grows back is thinner in diameter than it used to be.

Debra’s Answer

Graphite in pencils, as we are usually exposed to it, is not toxic.

However, the MSDS for graphite says:

I’m assuming that graphite residing in the body might be like mercury in dental fillings. You say it’s getting smaller, so it probably is releasing small amounts of graphite into your body.

I personally would probably remove it.

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Question from R

Hi Debra,

I recently went into an Origins store and the sales agent told me that they don’t use any chemicals in their products so they are all 100% natural. I bought a couple of items that didn’t have any chemicals listed in the ingredient list, but do you or your readers know if this is in fact true? I would appreciate any advice…

Thank you very much.

Debra’s Answer

Unfortunately, their website does not list any ingredients, so I can’t look at all the ingredients lists. I know when they first came out, they weren’t 100% natural, but I know they changed their formulas.

A lot of beauty product websites list their ingredients, so consumers can check out the products before they buy.

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Question from Stephanie

I know the topic of thyroid health has been a hot topic on this site and many members are users of natural thyroid supplements.

I ran across this article this morning and was deeply concerned.

The article was posted in Dr. Mercola’s weekly newsletter.

Here is the article I am referring to:

articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/09/19/Is-the-FDA-Poised-to-Ban-a-Century-Old-Natural-Remedy.aspx

In this article there are pointers to some grass roots efforts to save natural thyroid products:

Debra’s Answer

Thank you Stephanie. I myself have been having difficulty getting my prescription filled. We need to keep these natural hormones on the market.

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Question from Louise

Hello Debra.

My husband & I love your web site, thank you for all the info and “words of wisdom”.

I have two questions.

1. Do you know of a permanent hair dye that is free of perfumes and harsh chemicals, safe for MCS people ?

2. Do you have any information in reguards to the safety of tattoo dyes on people with MCS ?

Many thanks Debra!!!!

Debra’s Answer

Readers, what are your recommendations?

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Question from Melissa

Hi. Has anyone tried Skoy cloths (www.skoycloth.com)? They’re made from cotton and cellulose pulp, are biodegradable and are supposed to be a green alternative to paper towels. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Looks fine to me.

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Question from Millie

Does anyone own a Naturepedic mattress in a full or queen size? I am interested in purchasing one for my son. How firm is it and is it holding up well? I’m worried that it might be too firm. It seems the stores in my area only stock the crib size mattress. I’m a little nervous buying it without trying it out first. Many thanks!

Debra’s Answer

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Question from TE

Dear Debra,

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

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

Thank you!

TE

Debra’s Answer

The thing that absolutely will work is heavy duty aluminum foil. Put it up with aluminum foil tape, which you can buy at a hardware store.

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Question from cm

I have a question about staving off the flu and germs by washing your hands. I currently use hot water and Method fragrance free soap. But I’ve read some articles (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/15/health/15well.html) that it isn’t as effective as using hand sanitizer. Are there harmful chemicals in the alcohol based sanitizers or are they safe to use?

Thanks so much,

CM

Debra’s Answer

Actually, the article you cite from the New York Times says that you can either wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

The alcohol in hand sanitizer is made from petroleum and has some toxicity. Since it’s not necessary to use hand sanitizer, I’d use soap and water.

I know a woman who is a nurse, and she was passing out literature on the importance of washing hands to prevent infectious illness. She said we should sing the ABC alphabet song while we scrub our hands to scrub for the right amount of time.

HOW TO WASH YOUR HANDS

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Question from Colleen

Is Quickkrite floor leveling compound from Lowe’s alright to use for someone with multiple chemical sensitivity? We need to replace vinyl tiles in the kitchen and need something to patch the holes in the flooring to make the surface smooth before adding the new tiles. The tiles have been in the basement for 15 years so I’m sure they have outgassed. Are there any other options for no-voc or low voc floor leveling compound? I can’t go into Lowe’s to read the package and can’t find the ingredients online and can’t spend hours on the computer due to neck and back problems. Any suggestions or comments would be greatly appreciated.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Debbie

Does anyone know of a good substitute for KY jelly. I have MCS and it makes me itch after intercourse. With vaginal dryness I need to use something, but don’t know what to do. I tried olive oil and it absorbed so fast that we could not keep reapplying that fast. Both my husband and I take antihistamines, so we are both dry.

Any sugesstions would be appreciated.
Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Emily

Hello Debra,

In a few weeks I will be installing some new windows in my home. The contractor has recommenced using expanding foam around the windows to seal openings that would let air infiltrate into the house. The product he wants to use is “Great Stuff: Window and Door”.

This product does not appear to be a wise choice for someone with chemical sensitivities. The MSDS sheet says it may cause allergic respiratory reactions, pulmonary edema and central nervous system depression.

Do you know of an alternative non toxic product for filling cavities around newly installed windows?

Thank you for your wonderfully helpful website!

Debra’s Answer

I have no experience with this. Readers? 10/2/09 As I’ve been reading all the comments, I realized that when I said I have no experience with this, I was referring to the expanding insulating foam. But I DO have lots of experience with installing windows. I went and asked my husband about this because I didn’t remember that he had ever used it. He said he doesn’t use it. He just BUILDS TIGHT and then caulks it. We’ve never had any problems with the windows he has installed. The funny thing was, he’s been installing a window this week…We so don’t use expanding foam that I didn’t even make the connection…

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Question from Gina

Hi,

I have asthma and allergies, and I find I am very sensitive to shoes and jeans that say they are made in China. Lee jeans and regular pants that I bought at Kohls I had to return as I put them in my closet, and the horrible chemical smell came out from them. I ended up returning them the next day. I have seen on other blogs that people have complained of the smell of Lee Jean and Levi’s. Also, most of the shoes in stores now are made in China, and those smell horrible too. Is this them spraying stuff with pesticides before items come to the US? Why do most items smell that come over from there? And where can I find shoes and jeans that are made in the US instead?

Debra’s Answer

I don’t know what they spray clothing and shoes with in China.

There are a number of websites now that list products made in the USA. I started a list of them at Q&A: Made in the USA.

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Question from Jennifer Herman

Dear Readers,

I’d like to have new slipcovers made for a wood day bed but want to avoid filling them with foam since it contains toxic fire retardants. Any ideas?

Jen

Debra’s Answer

You could fill them with almost anything. I’ve used organic cotton and organic wool in the past to stufff cushions, but you could even use rolled up towels or blankets, or whatever you want.

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Question from Melissa D

Hi Debra,

I am looking for a beang bag-esque chair for my two-year-old son. Our house has all Ecotimber floors, and he doesn’t love always climbing up on the couch when he is looking for a softer place to sit. I’d like to get him a cotton or hemp bean bag chair, but all of the ones I have found – even the ones advertised as “green” – contain polystyrene beads. I thought those were not safe? The sites all claim those fillers are non toxic.

I guess I could always empty of the beads (if they are toxic) and fill the bag with something else with give – maybe cotton or wool batting?

Thanks for any advice you can offer, and thanks for being such a lifesaver for my family!

~Melissa

Debra’s Answer

Polystyrene is not nontoxic.

How about a big pillow for the floor? When I was a kid, my parents bought three big pillows and stacked them up on the floor. It was my favorite place to sit.

Get pillows with natural fiber casings, filled with a natural fiber stuffing.

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Question from Anne V.

Dear Debra,

After two years of a very bad rash all over my body (except my face), my dermatologist and I came to the realization that the clothes I had been wearing (primarily “travel-ready” clothes)were the cause of the rash. In addition, I have serious reactions to leather, spandex, rubber, glue, paper, etc. Consequently, I have been wearing only 100% cottons and linens, as well as cotton gloves. Now my skin is clear except for some spots on my hands and feet.

I live in New York State, and with the approach of the fall and winter seasons, I’m not sure what to do about clothes. I know denim is okay, but what about 100% cotton corduroy, cotton/linen blends, and crinkled cotton? I have read several sources that say to avoid corduroy, but was heartened to see that you wear it in winter. The articles also say 100% polyester, nylon, and acrylic are okay, but aren’t these fabrics treated with formaldehyde resins?

In advance, thanks for your help. Love your site!

Debra’s Answer

I’m not sure what articles you are reading, but I wouldn’t say 100% polyester, nylon, and acrylic are okay. All polyester is treated with formaldehyde resin. Nylon is pretty nontoxic, I wouldn’t wear acrylic.

As you know, I live in Florida, where it rarely gets what you could call “cold,” but last year I had to travel in the midwest in January and February and I needed to stay warm. I was in Chicago when it was snowing.

What I did was use layers to keep my body warm. I bought a set of cotton long underwear and it really worked. I wore them under my cotton corduroy pants, with several pairs of cotton socks and hiking boots. My feet were warm and dry. Over the top, I wore a cotton turtleneck, a cotton flannel shirt, a cotton sweatshirt or sweater, a scarf, and my oversized men’s nylon raincoat. I got an extra big raincoat so I could put lots of layers under it. It’s a stadium jacket with big pockets and a hood. I got a wool hat and gloves, but a cotton hat will do. Just layer, layer, layer.

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Question from AnneT

Debra,

Our next door neighbor is planning to have polyurethane foam blown on as a roofing material. As a person with MCS I am concerned about the toxicity of the material as it is being applied, and the issue of off-gassing after application. I am not comfortable being in the vicinity of the material as it is applied but I wonder if I’m over reacting. I have done some research on the internet and the articles I read state that polyurethane is safe after it is cured, or dry. Do I need to go elsewhere while the foam is being applied? I understand the whole process will take 2 or 3 days. I realize that the fresh air will alleviate some of the problems but I still have doubts. Please comment on polyurethane as a roofing material.Readers experiences are welcome too.

Just FYI, the neighbor is being very cooperative and that is helpful. But he may decide on the foam roof anyway.

Thank you,

Debra’s Answer

I would leave the area while it is being applied for sure, and stay away at least a few days while it is curing.

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Question from Annette Tweedel

Hi,

I am looking for a 100% Organic Cotton Waterproof Mattress Pad.

We have been looking and so far we have only found one. It’s called Organic Mattress Protector Pad (Waterproof & Non-Waterproof) by Naturepedic for $139.

I also just found this one on the internet through Debra’s listings. And it is 100% Organic Cotton Mattress Pad by The Natural Sleep Store. It says the pads are “expertly machine quilted and will protect mattress from spills and accidents.” And this is $185.

Would any one of these be healthy for a person suffering with MCS? I need this for a queen size bed. We were hoping to find cheaper.

Would you know of any that do not contain any synthetic materials? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Debra’s Answer

There are several different types of moisture protection for mattresses.

The Naturepedic waterproof mattress pad is waterproof. It contains a layer of food grade polyethylene that does not outgas. I have personally “sniffed” this polyethylene and there is no odor. It is certified by GREENGUARD. This is waterproof. It completely protects the mattress from liquids and is washable, so it is hygenic.

The Natural Sleep mattress pad that you mentioned might be moisture resistant, but I don’t see from the description that it is waterproof. The fibers may be so tightly woven that it is difficult for water to penetrate. It wouldn’t block moisture as well as the Naturepedic pad, but it is made from all natural materials.

There are also wool pads that are moisture resistant, again all natural, but not as waterproof as Naturepedic.

You really need to decide if you want a pad that is less effective and all natural or more effective and less natural. I think it depends on your needs. If you really need something to be waterproof, using a less effective pad will only result in an unclean mattress. But if you just need some moisture resistance for occasional spills, the natural fibers should be fine.

As long as we’re talking about polyethylene, I want to clear up a confusion I’ve observed.

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Question from KJ

Thanks always for the wealth of information!! I always reply on this site and Debra.

I am looking for a safe alarm clock for kids. I think the attributes that make them safer would be: 1) made of metal and not plastic 2) analog

Are there any suggestions?

Thank you

Dear Debra,

Could you recommend a safe alarm clock to put in my bedroom? I am aware of EMF dangers, and would like to avoid them as much as possible. Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

Oh, this one is easy.

Just type “metal alarm clock” into your favorite search engine and you’ll find hundreds.

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Question from Aimee

Now I read that there is titanium dioxide in many vitamins which is pretty scary!

www.naturalnews.com:80/
027000_titanium_titanium_dioxide_vitamins.html

Anyone here know where I can get safe vitamins and supplements, preferably made from ‘live’ veggies and herbs, at a REASONABLE price? And, please, NO MLM’s…

Thank you, everyone…

Debra’s Answer

I’ve listed some at Debra’s List: Food: Supplements. There are more too.

We’ve also discussed vitamins several times on this blog. There’s a summary of links to the posts along with some general comments from me at Q&A: Vitamins.

I don’t know what you consider a “reasonable” price, but the vitamins you describe are going to be more expensive. I didn’t read the article you cited, but I doubt if any of the “whole food” supplements I’ve been recommending for years contain titanium dioxide, or anything else. They don’t need any fillers–they are 100% food.

Generally the vitamins that contain fillers need fillers to hold them together because they are synthetic vitamins and have little material of their own.

That’s why I’ve been recommending whole food vitamins for more than twenty years.

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Question from Cindy

Hello,

I would like to hear from anybody regarding any of there machines, especially the Tyent Turbo model as I just recently purchased one. They seem to be too good to be true if you believe the information they claim regarding improving severe health problems.

Here are some of the questions I have:

Thank you for any information you can give.

Cindy

Debra’s Answer

I have a medical-grade alkalizer that I got from Go Beyond Organic. It is a stand-alone unit that I pour my filtered water in.

I notice a huge difference in how my body feels drinking alkalized water. But I haven’t experienced health improvements on the scale that are claimed by some sellers of alkaline water units. I just notice a difference when I am traveling and don’t have my alkaline water with me.

I haven’t compared all the alkaline water units yet, but chose this one because it has enough “power” to really charge the water.

Readers, please write in with information on the units you have or are considering and I’ll compare them for you.

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Question from Ethel

I came across this Fragrance Jar in Lowes. On the label its states that it is organic, earth friendly and made with natural essential oils. It is distributed by Changing Paradigms Distributed, A Division of The Evercare Co. Westchester Ohio. I visited their website and found other conventional products but nothing on this one.

I googled Changing Paradigms, their website had other conventional products listed but not this one… when I searched Elemental organic and earth friendly, that search didnt bring up much either (Only that they sell Soy Candles also). I was hoping you had some information on this company. The Crisp Apple smells really nice and am hoping that this product is a safe way to add some aroma to the house.

Thanks for you help!

Debra’s Answer

I don’t have any information on this product or company other than what is available on the Internet. The distributor listed only distributes the product, they don’t manufacture it. It seems that the manufacturer isn’t listed.

“Natural essential oils” should mean that the fragrance is natural, not made from petroleum. These fragrances are generally safer to use.

What is the candle itself made of? What aspect of it is “organic”?

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Question from Greyson

Has anyone used ChemLink products? They make an interesting non-toxic caulk “NovaLink”, as well as a construction adhesive “Mean Green”. Any experiences? What do you think, Debra? www.chemlinkinc.com

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

The two products you mention have low toxicity, according to their MSDS sheets. I think they would at least be less toxic than other products of their type. I haven’t used either one.

Please read the MSDS sheets for the products offered by this company. A quick spot-check showed not all of their products are less toxic.

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Question from Ronda

Hi Debra –

I am looking into changing out the glass in the picture frames and large artwork frames in my home to plexiglass. I’m doing this because I live where earthquakes are common and I have two toddlers.

Are there any toxic issues regarding plexiglass?

As always, thanks for your great advice!!

Debra’s Answer

Plexiglass is made from acrylic plastic, which does outgas some. It’s not a material I would use personally if I had another choice, but it’s also not the most toxic material in the world.

I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area–famous for it’s earthquakes–for almost fifty years and had glass in my frames the entire time. I never had a problem with it. Even in the Loma Priata quake that brought freeways crashing down.

I think the likelihood of your children being next to a framed picture at the very moment an earthquake is occuring AND having that picture fall to the ground is very slim. On the other hand, acrylic would be outgassing in your home every day.

BTW, in searching for what Plexiglass is made from, I came across a useful website. It’s called MatWeb, and it lists material property data. Now, I’m not so interested in the properties of these materials beyond their toxicity (which it doesn’t list), but it does list a lot of brand name products and the materials they are made from. Took me about a minute to find out Plexiglass is made from acrylic.

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Question from Ruth

Debra, there is something that has me wondering. I’ve read your MCS recovery story and it is wonderful, and I am so glad for you.

I wonder, with everything that people who have MCS do to gain back their health, why would it be that so very many, many of them never do regain the quality of health that allows them to say “Ah, I have my life back!” There are things about having MCS that have changed my life for the better…being green is the number one thing….but I would love to have more quality,

more choices of what I can do, where I can go, being able to work again, etc. You seem to be the exception to all of this.

Please speak to that if you will. I know that everyone is different in how they do or don’t recover from MCS….but there just seems to be such an extreme number of people who never get that well again. Perhaps other readers of your blog have felt the same way.

Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Two things came to mind when I read your question.

The first is that my definition of “have my life back” doesn’t mean having my life be the way it was pre-MCS. It’s a different life. I know for many people, their idea of having their life back means having the ability to live as they did before, being exposed to toxic things with no reactions. I don’t have any desire for that. I love my nontoxic life. I feel no deprivation not having toxic chemicals around.

I do have the ability to be in “regular” environments where there are toxic chemicals because I spend so much time in my clean environment at home. I work at home, too, so most of the time I am in an environment I have pretty much complete control over. This allows me to go into other, more toxic, environments without getting toxic overload. And this is fine for me, because I understand the destructiveness to health of toxic environments and I have no need to have the ability to tolerate them.

I do not feel “confined” to my safe home environment. It’s just the environment I prefer.

The other thing I thought of is that when I first found out about MCS, I made a decision that I didn’t want to simply “cope” with MCS, I wanted to have a life. I wanted to be able to travel, go shopping, eat in restaurants, go to the movies, and do whatever I wanted. And I can do all those things, for certain periods of time. Like I went and lived in an apartment in San Francisco for three months last year, but when I came home, my body was pretty stressed. I couldn’t live that way every day for the rest of my life, but I was able to do so for three months, and then came home and recovered.

You mentioned work. I think it would be difficult for me to go to an office building every day and work. But I am very happy working at home. I think I would have a home-based business even if I didn’t have environmental concerns. I love being able to work whenever I want to, and be able to do things like take a break to prepare dinner and then come back to work while it’s cooking low and slow in the oven.

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Question from HEG

Hi Debra,

I was wondering if you know of the least toxic “fire caulk” available. I am not sure but I believe fire caulk is used to seal spaces as a barrier to smoke of any kind. I live in an apartment complex and have started to smell cigarette and marijuana smoke in our unit. The building assures us that each individual unit is self-contained and fire proof, but we are not smoking so it must be coming in from another unit. I mostly smell it in my air conditioner closet with pipes that run up and down, so I think that space around the pipes may be where the air is coming from. The building said they would seal it up with fire caulk but I don’t want to try to get rid of one toxin by adding another, especially because we have a newborn in our home. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? Any suggestions?

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Question from ird

Does the plastic or metal leach when hot, cold, fridge cold, or freezer cold or just room temperature. Under which temperature condition is the leaching greatest? I ask this in regard to tea, lemonade(acid)and just drinking water from my clear hard plastic drinking cups. Also it takes time and money to replace these utensils and I would like to do this in time-affordable way that is safe. I hope you understand my question.

Debra’s Answer

I love it when questions and responses both come in within days of each other.

Right before I received this question, another reader sent me this article about leaching, from Chemical & Engineering News: pubs.acs.org/cen/coverstory/87/8735cover.html.

The article says:

It’s an interesting article that gives many examples of the leaching of different materials, but for me, the key idea in the whole article is “What are the substances that are leaching, and what is their potential harm in humans?”

The article mentions leaching from glass, which many of us consider to be so inert. But I looked it up and glass does leach.

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Question from Margaret

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

Debra’s Answer

I have no experience with composting toilets. Readers?

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Question from edie

I would like to buy a rice or buckwheat hull pillow. I understand they are not all the same. I would like to understand how to select a good one. And learn where’s a good place to buy one.

Debra’s Answer

I’m just going to refer you to a couple of websites–both have a lot of information on them.

Pillowcrafters makes custom pillows with prewashed cotton (organic or conventional), filled with buckwheat hulls or rice hulls.

The Pillow Company specializes exclusively in pillows filled with certified organically grown buckwheat hulls or millet hulls, in all shapes and sizes. Covers are 100% cotton and come with zippers, so you can refill your hulls (they sell loose hulls too).

Readers, what is your experience with hull pillows and your favorite places to buy them?

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Question from Jim Knowlton

Debra;

What are your thoughts and possible investigations finding on ZEROWATER.

Thanks

Jim in Sav

Debra’s Answer

Zerowater has an interesting marketing angle–they give you a “laboratory-calibrated water tester” so you can see for yourself that your water contains “zero”. But zero what?

The only thing this filter claims to remove are TDS–total dissolved solids. It doesn’t touch any of the pollutants you should be concerned about, like chlorine and chloramines and fluoride.

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Question from sarah

Help! I’m suffering from TMI (too much information) overload!

I am trying to find the best portable food and drink storage materials for my family. For liquids, we were using SIGG, but I recently learned their bottles contained BPA through 2008 and now I’m returning them to SIGG for the “new” bottles with BPA free liners. Who knows if this new liner is truly safe either, as I’ve lost some trust in SIGG. I’ve heard Kleen Kanteen is good, but will they corrode or leach without a liner? I like the glass Love Bottle, but that is not practical for my daughter to bring to school. My daughter, husband and I all bring our lunches to school/work and glass is heavy and breakable.

We want to get rid of our old plastic, but what is safest? I’ve looked into Lunch Bots and Kids Konserve, which are both stainless steel, but do we have to worry about leaching chemicals? I’ve seen the new Oxo Pop, which is BPA/PVC/phthalate-free plastic; the Fresh Snack Pack made of EVA; and TellFresh made from Polypropylene. You mentioned polyethylene, but I can’t find a product made from this material.

3GreenMoms makes moisture proof pouches but I wonder about mold. Plum Creek makes cotton snack bags, but those won’t work for fruit or veggies which is most of our diet. What’s going to be the safest option for my family? One study I read says stainless is best, then I read something else that says stainless is bad and BPA free plastic is best. I’m in a quandry!

Debra’s Answer

I’m sure everyone is going to have a different opinion on this.

I’ll just reiterate that glass is the least toxic food storage material.

All of the plastics are going to leach something into the foods and beverage, though I can’t tell you at this time how much or what. I’m working on researching this.

Stainless steel leaches metals.

So if you don’t use glass, then you need to decide if you want to eat and drink plastics or metals.

I’m still working on determining, which is safer–plastic or metal. Neither is completely safe.

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Question from anna

Have had mcs since the early 1980s. It is time to get a new sofa. There are/were two places that made sofas to order for mcsers, but it will cost around $6,000. I cannot afford that. Already have a futon in my spare bedroom which is fine for sleeping, but very uncomfortable to sit on. Does anyone know of a place that makes futons that really are comfortable to sit on or where I can get a sofa that is non toxic but not outrageously expensive. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Readers? What is your experience?

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Question from jenbooks

See this new research:

Scientists at Goethe University in Frankfurt found that estrogenic compounds leach from PET plastic into the water.

It now appears possible that some as-yet unidentified chemicals in these plastics have the potential to interfere with estrogen and other reproductive hormones, just as BPA and phthalates do.

Excerpt from an article at abc dot net dot au: “What we found was really surprising to us,” says Wagner. “If you drink water from plastic bottles, you have a high probability of drinking estrogenic compounds.”

The study adds to growing concerns about products that span the plastic spectrum, says Shanna Swan, an epidemiologist at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in New York.”

Please do your best to avoid plastic when reasonably possible. All plastics leach.

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Tina Riley

I am very confused about the whole plastic issue. I have been using a stainless steel glass for drinking to keep liquids cold or hot, now i read that it may be harmful. Can i freeze water in “safe” plastic and it still be “safe”

also I bought a device for the dishwasher to wash plastic zip lock bags to reuse and save “plastic” going to the landfilll now I read that the heat releases toxins?

What are your thoughts?

Debra’s Answer

For food storage, the number one safest material is glass, glass, glass.

It is always good to minimize your exposure to plastic as much as possible, if for no other reason than it is made from nonrenewable petroleum or natural gas and most plastics do not biodegrade. There may be some leaching of plastics into the food or beverage, more leaching occurs when the food or beverage is heated (this includes water bottles sitting in the sun or in a hot car). Depending on the type of plastic, there is more or less leaching and it’s more or less toxic.

Stainless steel can leach metals into food or water. More or less depending on various factors that I’m still researching. Exposure to metals may be more or less toxic than exposure to plastic.

What this all boils down to is that glass is the safest choice for food storage.

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Question from Cynthia

I like the “give” of a box spring under my matress, but would like to eliminate metal from my sleeping environment.

Does anyone know of a substitute?

Debra’s Answer

The alternative is a wood slat frame. It’s not a “box” like a box spring, but rather slats of flexible wood placed across a wood frame. It offers support and much-needed air circulation, while also having some “give”. It makes sleeping on a natural fiber mattress more comfortable than placing it on a hard surface like a floor. You can buy wood slat frames from most places that sell natural fiber mattresses, such as those listed at Debra’s List: Textiles: Beds & Bedding.

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Question from ep

I have sifted through the previous Q & A on your website as well as throughout other web searches. I need to replace my scratched skillets and sauce pans. I’d like to buy a set so that I can make it as cost efficient as possible. It seems that there are risks associated with both stainless steel as well as the hard anodized aluminum if they are scratched. If my family has no known allergies, can you recommend which route to take?

Debra’s Answer

If these were my only two choices, I would go with the anodized aluminum. It’s my opinion that it probably leaches less than the stainless steel.

I understand about cost efficiency. For myself, I consider the long term effects of good health. I may save money today by not purchasing the more expensive healthier product, but down the road, poor health not only results in more medical expenses, but loss of income and the priceless enjoyment of life. I’m not independently wealthy, but creating a healthy environment is the number one most important thing to me. If I need to cut back on something, I cut back on something else and spend the money I have on healthy products.

Xtrema Cookware, made from ceramic. It is better for health and the environment.

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Question from JAD

I would like to comment on Debra’s newsletter last week. She wrote the following.

“Also this week, a reader wrote to me and said, “Thank you for everything you do! I am sure all this costs you much money and I am one of those that has truly come to depend on your advice. Where can I donate?” Yes, maintaining this website and newsletter does cost me much money. Especially now with all the expenses of transferring my website to a more workable structure. If you have benefitted from my work and would like to make a contribution toward expenses, you may do so here: donate via credit card or paypal.”

I first found out that I had MCS in 1993, two different Doctors told me that I would just have to live with it and stay away from anything that bothered me. It took me a couple of years but got to the point I could lead a “normal” live again as long as I was careful. In July of 08 I had a major exposure to an Oil Wood House Stain and crashed to the point I was finding that there were products that I had used all my life that I could no longer use. Although I was great about being fragrance free I needed to find more chemical free products. It was so bad that I finally Googled “Cure for MCS” this last spring and found Debra’s site. After reading her site for a while I decided that I need to start making MORE changes.

Because of the financial climate and most everything that is “good” for us cost more, money is tight for most of us. I for one live on a fix income. But on the other hand I know that I save money using Debra’s site. I have bought so many products just to “try” and end up giving or throwing them away. Now I just go to Debra’s site. This is saving me money!

Debra at this point does not charge for her e-mail advise and I would like to see it stay that way. How many of us would have paid to look at her site. What she does cost her money. Years ago I wrote a book on our family history. When I started it I had no idea how much money this was going to cost me. Travel, Stamps (before e-mail), copying, postage, phone bills, etc etc. I at one time starting keeping track of what it was costing me to do this “hobby” and I had to stop keeping track or would have quit.

Stop and think how Debra has helped you and maybe you can help even if it is just a little. If all of us helped even a”little” it might help cover her expenses.

Debra’s Answer

Thank you for your very kind words. It’s always nice to know that my work is valuable and being appreciated. If anyone else would like to express appreciation for this website or tell how it saves money for you, please do so by adding a comment.

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Question from SP

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

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

Are there any good mcs mask works well?

Debra’s Answer

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Question from Ron

I’ve heard these waste a lot of water and are slower than conventional gas heaters in delivering hot water. What are the advantages and disadvantages of conventional vs tankless?

Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

Here are two links you can start with.

There is already a lot of info on tankless water heaters at Q&A: Shower Filter for Tankless Water Heater, but it doesn’t really compare tankless vs conventional.

Green Living Tips: Tank vs Tankless Hot Water Heating does give a comparison and some comments on the downside of tankless.

I have a conventional hot water heater myself and will continue to use it until it needs to be replaced. But the energy savings of tankless makes sense to me, so I hope everyone using a tankless system will write in and tell all of us the pros and cons.

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Question from Rose Pignolet

Hi, Debra.

First of all thank you for your work on the web site. I love it!

I have a question about garden vegetables. I know now that garden hose contain lots of chemicals including lead. We just moved in to new home with garden which was watered by unsafe garden hose for years, now I have children who will eat this veggies and bought new lead toxin free drinking water safe garden hose, but I thought what if dirt is contaminated with toxin by years of watering. Is it still there? Is it going to be in the new veggies? If so, What can I do to minimize it? Please let me know if you know anything. (should I dig out dirt and put organic dirt in? Which will be very expensive…)

Thank you for your help

Sincerely,

Rose

Debra’s Answer

Anyone have any thoughts on this or know of any studies?

Question from Aimee

Proof is coming to light that bamboo fabric is NOT ‘green’…Four bamboo fabric processing companies

www.treehugger.com/files/2009/08/bamboo-ftc.php?dcitc=daily_nl

Debra’s Answer

Please follow this link to read the FTC’s viewpoint on bamboo fabric claims.

I’m hoping that this won’t be the end of bamboo fabrics, as bamboo is a renewable resource. I’d like to see this all get straightened out, have the manufacturing process improved, and have bamboo fabric be a viable green product.

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Question from RBES

I have a few items that I need to take to the cleaners & I’d like to take it to an environmentally friendly one. There are several in my area that claim to be “enviromentally friendly”. How do I know if their claim is true or just “green washing”? Do they have to be certified or are there some key questions that I can ask? I’d appreciate any light you can shed on the subject. Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I have just the website for you: Green Cleaners Council.

Their website states, “The Green Cleaners Council counts the many ways a professional dry cleaner can be ‘green’ by providing cleaners and consumers with defined environmental sustainability benchmarks to judge them by… We afford consumers a verifiable mechanism for judging how GREEN their cleaner is, while giving professional cleaners a vehicle to herald their genuine environmental accomplishments and strategies to help them achieve their green goals for the future.”

They certify dry cleaning establishments that meet their criteria and have a list of certified cleaners on their website.

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Question from Carol

I was wondering if your pans are still living up to your expectations after having used them for awhile. I was looking to buy one for cooking eggs but noticed a lot of negative reviews after people used them for a few months. Thanks. I really appreciate your efforts.

Carol

Debra’s Answer

I have two (different sizes) and I still love them. But remember, I only use them for cooking eggs, so I haven’t used them as much as other might.

What kind of negative comments are being made, and where? If I know your specific concerns, I can tell you my experience.

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Question from chris

What are some good remedies can help alleviate Orthostatic Postural Tachycardia Syndrome even if temporarily so I can accomplish basic tasks? I can barely get out of bed to do anything anymore because I can’t stand up straight and I’m too dizzy to.

Does anyone have any tips? I have successfully used remedies for eliminating or controlling many severe symptoms but I’m at a loss here. I’m desperate as I often find myself without food because I can’t go grocery shopping. Last time I was very dizzy from several days lack of food.

Doctors have been notoriously unhelpful or harmful. What kind of doctor should an MCS patient see? Particularly for treating this particular syndrome, please. I’m at the end of my rope. Thanks.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Kathy

Hi,

For 6 years I have been waiting for my sunroom to outgas or offgas enough that I can find it bearable to use without 9 windows open and a box fan running as an exhaust system through one of the windows. I often smell plastic smells and a chlorine type odor.

The MSDS sheets on everything make it sound wonderful, but that has not been my experience, as I have a burning throat, headaches, and trouble breathing if ever the windows are shut. Is it really legal in this country to sell a room like this? Must I really be out $15,000 and tear it down? There are expanded polystyrene walls which supposedly do not offgas, although I have my doubts.

I am less concerned with the formaldehyde containing wood products, as I have never been bothered longterm by them before, although maybe without adequate ventilation that could be an issue also. I have attempted to cover the vinyl wallcovering with Hard Seal and shellac, neither of which can stop the odor. I don’t know the voc’s which could be involved in vinyl wallcovering, and how toxic they might be. Finally they used a Vulkem 116 caulk which smells awful even after 6 years. I painted over it, but still the smell is emitted. Any ideas? I have a bruised head from banging my head against the wall for 6 years trying to fix this. Many thanks.

Kathy

Debra’s Answer

It sounds like your sunroom is made with some pretty toxic materials. I’m not surprised you are having difficulty with it. Eventually, it will outgas, but I can’t tell you how long that will take. If I were in your shoes, I’d probably tear it down.

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Question from Laura

Other than smacking them, I mean. My home, indoors, has a mosquito problem.

Does anybody know something safe that can be done to get rid of them?

Thanks very…(‘scuse me, scratching)…much.

Debra’s Answer

My friend Linda highly recommends Nature’s Defender Cedar Oil products. She gave me a sample this afternoon and I used it in my most mosquito-fllled environment: my chlorine-free swimming pool.

Just to give you an idea of what the mosquito population is like here in Florida…most everyone who has a pool also has in enclosed in a screened room to keep out the bugs. We don’t have any screen, and every time I go in the pool, I also have to battle the mosquitoes. We have several ways of dealing with them, such as citronella candles, but ours are all burned down at the moment.

So I sprayed the cedar oil on my hair (it’s a very fine, non-greasy mist) and I watched the mosquitoes fly right up to my body and stop without landing and biting. I sprayed my husband’s hair too, and he had no bites. I also had no bites from walking through the garden, which usually results in at least half a dozen bites. This stuff really works. (I should add that we walk in the pool, we don’t swim, so our heads and shoulders are above water at all times.)

I have to tell you that it does smell like cedar wood. But it’s not even as strong as most herbal repellents I’ve tried.

This company makes a whole variety of cedar repellants, for personal protection, pets, and farm animals. They have cedar oil sprays in various concentration for different uses, and red cedar granules that can be used indoors or out to repel repel fleas, mosquitos, roaches, scorpions, flies, no-see-ums–even venomous snakes–with no effect on beneficial insects such as butterflies and pollinating bees. Kills bedbugs, eliminates fire ant mounds, handles head lice…it’s pretty amazing stuff.

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Question from Laura

Is there a healthier version of “Ensure” for those whose digestive system won’t tolerate food at this time? Are there topical forms of nuttition? Thank you.

Debra’s Answer

I’m glad you are looking for an alternative.

Here are the typical ingredients (ingredients vary according to flavor:

Water (UD), Sugar (Sucrose), Sodium, Calcium Caseinates, Maltodextrin (Corn), High Oleic Safflower Oil, Soy Protein Isolate, Soy Oil, Canola Oil, Cocoa Powder (Processed with Alkali), Soy Lecithin, Natural & Artificial Flavor, Carrageenan.

To this are added the Vitamins & Minerals: Potassium Citrate, Calcium Phosphate Tribasic, Sodium Citrate, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Phosphate Dibasic, Salt (Sodium chloride), Choline Chloride, Ascorbic Acid, Ferric Phosphate, Alpha Tocopherol Acetate, Zinc Sulfate, Niacinamide, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Cupric Sulfate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Thiamine Chloride Hydrochloride, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Chromium Chloride, Biotin, Sodium Molybdate, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenate, Phylloquinone, Vitamin D3, Cyanocobalamin.

It’s basically a multivitamin and protein powder mixed with a lot of refined sugar, refined oil, soy, and artificial flavor.

A healthier option would be great to know about.

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Question from Lauren

Debra,

I recently bought my first set of organic cotton sheets, and found out what so many were saying about the odor was true. I too, could not tolerate the smell. I tried adding boiling water to my wash, baking soda, washing soda and milk, as some other suggested, to no avail. What finally worked for me was fresh lemon juice. I used 4 lemons, cut them in half, squeezed the juice out and poured it into my wash. For good measure, I decided to throw in the lemon halfs – what the heck! I lined dried them sheets and found that the odor was gone, and for me I was now able to tolerate them. I haven’t tried lemon juice for other odors, but I intend to.

Lauren

Debra’s Answer

Yay! Thanks for the solution to a problem I know many are having.

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Question from ruthie

Hi Debra,

I am looking for Green fry pans that are “safe”. I understand how dangerous Teflon coating is & am hoping to find something good that is made with the safe coating. I understand you use the Cuisinart Green ware fry pan. My concern is that it is made of aluminum. I understand that it is coated on the inside…. I’m just wondering if the aluminum can seep through the coating and get into food when cooked? Of course, my reasoning for this is to prevent any aluminum from entering our bodies which is supposed to cause Alzheimer’s Disease. I suffer from some other illnesses along with terrible constant pain all over my body…We are going more organic & using a homeopath to help us. We’re in our late 50’s.

Thank you for your help!

Ruthie

Debra’s Answer

The coating is a continuous ceramic coating. To the best of my knowledge, it completely seals the aluminum, and the aluminum does not get through to the food.

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Question from charlene

My daughter has allergies to pet dander and dust mites.

She is on Shaklee all-natural vitamins which has stopped all of her allergies, but her doctor also recommended covering her mattress and pillows in covers to eliminate dust mites.

Most of the ones I have found are made from plastic. I don’t want to be putting any toxic covers in her bed.

Any suggestions?

Debra’s Answer

Type “barrier cloth dust mites” into your favorite search engine and you’ll get at least a half a dozen links to sites that sell 100% cotton barrier cloth mattress covers.

The cotton threads are so tightly woven that the mites cannot get between the threads.

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Question from chris

I bought unbleached wax paper to rewrap all the food that comes in plastic (organic cold cuts, organic cheese) as my local health food store doesn’t slice up organic meats or cheeses. I have severe plastic toxicity. I know I’m supposed to discard the part that touches plastic, problem is that the slices are “layered” and they all touch plastic. I would have to discard it all. I mean even organic frozen foods & vegetables touch plastic! Used to be you could find frozen veggies in a cardboard box but no more. (And I’m sure the cardboard was bleached…dioxins!)

Anyway I’m now concerned: what type of wax is used in this “unbleached” wax paper? I seriously doubt it is beeswax or the manufacturer would make sure we knew. I’ve had no way of finding out so far.

Debra’s Answer

I agree. Beeswax would be prohibitive in cost, and if they did use it, you can be sure the label would say “beeswaxed paper.”

There’s soy wax, but again, if that were used, I imagine it would be all over the label.

When the type of wax is not stated, I assume it’s paraffin, a product of petroleum.

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Question from kpc

Are you familiar with the brand SnackTAXI ? www.snacktaxi.com

they make reusable snack/sandwich bags. I am trying to figure out how non-toxic they are, and would love your opinion. They say this about their product:

“They are lined with a waterproof material that consists of nylon with a polyurethane coating. After talking to many manufacturers of this product, we understand that this type of coated nylon is free of heavy metals and phthalates. We have found a supplier of this coated nylon who has had their product extensively tested. The tests revealed that the nylon is free of heavy metals (including lead), phthalates, PBBs, and PBDEs. We will be ordering all of our nylon from this supplier going forward.”

Debra’s Answer

This is my second response to this question. I misread the question originally and was receiving comments that obviously also showed some misunderstanding, so I’m just starting over with my answer. Snack Taxis are reusable sandwich bags made of 100% cotton (not organic). The website says, “The manufacturer from which we order most of our cotton has had their material tested and found that it is free of lead and phthalates. We are considering ordering all of our cotton from this manufacturer in the future.” They are “lined with a waterproof material that consists of nylon with a polyurethane coating” which is also “free of heavy metals (including lead), phthalates, PBBs, and PBDEs.” This coated nylon DOES come in contact with the food. Some readers have written that they think the polyurethane coating is on the back of the nylon and does not come in contact with the food. I looked up polyurethane, as I know it can be toxic in other applications, such as floor finish. Apparently, the fully reacted polyurethane polymer is chemically inert (floor finishes contain other chemicals, such as solvents, which are toxic). No exposure limits have been established by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) or ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists), nor is it regulated by OSHA for carcinogenicity. However, when it breaks down, it decomposes into carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrogen cyanide. There is such a thing as food grade polyurethane. It may very well be that by the time this polyurethane coating is fused to the nylon fabric, it is completely inert. I don’t know. I doubt this is any more toxic than any other plastic sandwich bag, but it can be reused a greater number of times, thereby keeping disposable plastic bags out of landfills.

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Question from charlene Gormley

Has anyone been able to find out any information about WOW Green cleaning products. Their website does not list any ingredients and they say their products are safe and natural because they use enzymes.

I’m just wondering if they are another company pretending to be green, but aren’t?

Also WOW stands for World of Wealth – not exactly a green living way of life, unless you are talking about the other kind of green: cash!

Debra’s Answer

The label says “proprietary enzyme formula, surfactants, natural scent.” I think that’s about all they are going to reveal. But that’s enough.

They do seem to be very interested in promoting their business opportunity and I am being bombarded by independent reps wanting me to list them on Debra’s List.

An enzyme is “an organic molecule, produced by a living organism, that increases the rate of a chemical reaction.” Enzymes are present throughout nature–almost all life processes, such as the digestion of food, need enzymes to occur at significant rates.

So when a product says that it contains enzymes, it contains a substance produced by a living organism that speeds up a natural process of the breakdown of dirt and stains.

Here’s an important thing to know about enzymes. Enzymes are extremely selective, and speed up only a few reactions from among many possibilities. In fact, the specific enzymes made in a cell determine the function of that cell. A “proprietary enzyme formula” would be a set of enzymes chosen to perform a specific set of cleaning functions.

And that’s the rub about enzymes. In Nature, cells perform very specific functions as a result of their enzymes. If you then introduce different enzymes, what happens? We don’t know.

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Question from libby

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

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

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

Thanks!!

Debra’s Answer

I had to look up fused bags, as I didn’t know what they were. It’s a process of ironing 6-8 plastic shopping bags together to make a material from which you can then make into something, like a reusable shopping tote.

These bags are made from polyethylene, which is not a toxic plastic.

I’m not overly concerned about toxic fumes coming from fusing bags.

But…why not take them to a recycling bin at the grocery store? Most of the markets here in the Tampa Bay area that I’ve been to have them.

Later…

I did some further research on this and found that when polyethylene is heated, it degrades and offgasses hydrogen (95-99%) and methane (1-4%).

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Question from Mary

I have someone who is interested in cleaning my apartment, which includes dusting, but wants to have a fan running while she works. She would not be using a feather duster, but would be using a microfiber rag. It seems to me that having the fan running would be counter-productive. What do you think?

Debra’s Answer

I’m not sure how much dust gets stirred up by running a fan. If you think it is a problem, maybe she could dust first, then turn on the fan?

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Question from Stacy D

I would like to buy my son a stainless steel food container (preferally insulated) to use for packing school lunches. With so many brands, I’m not sure which to buy. Any suggestions? I’m looking for something bigger than the soup containers that I have been seeing in the stores. I want something that I can pack a mini-meal. I bought him a stainless steel water bottle (Thermos brand). When I was looking at them in the store I noticed a metal smell inside when opening them- Not sure if that will go away after washing. I ‘m trying to get away from plastic and do not want to pack his lunch in glass- in case he drops it. Is stainless steel the next best alternative after glass? I don’t want any metals leaching into his food!!!

Debra’s Answer

The metal smell doesn’t go away. Metals might leach from stainless steel containers more or less, depending on the acidity of the food.

Personally, after glass, I would choose a polyethylene plastic container over a stainless steel container. Polyethylene is very stable and does not smell or leach in my experience.

I no longer use stainless steel anything.

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Question from Barbara

Is it possible to have toxic people that transfer negative energy that actually makes you ache? I do have fibromyalgia and I’ve noticed that when a certain person touches me I absolutely ache everywhere. I know it sounds strange but any comments?

Thank you

Barbara

Debra’s Answer

Human bodies certainly transmit energy, as do human thoughts and feelings. They are energy wavelengths just as electromagnetic fields are energy wavelengths.

A loving touch can make your body feel better, so it stands to reason that a negative touch could make your body feel worse.

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Question from MGR

I switched to mineral makeup because it contains fewer chemicals and synthetic ingredients. However, I have recently read that it is unsafe to inhale titanium dioxide and kaolin, which are common ingredients in mineral makeup. It is difficult to apply loose powder mineral makeup without inhaling some of the dust — does anyone know if this is something to be genuinely concerned about?

Thanks

Debra’s Answer

One thing that is important to keep in mind regarding assessing danger is how much of a potentially hazardous substance your are exposed to. Remember “the dose makes the poison.”

A lot of the toxicity data that is available comes from safety standards set for workplace exposure, not consumer exposure. I’ve seen many products contain ingredients that are “dust hazards” in the workplace, but at home, we use so little there is hardly a dust hazard. Think of scouring powder, for example.

The OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit for the workplace is 15 milligrams per cubic meter. Same for kaolin. All day long. You’re applying your makeup for less than a minute.

Keep in mind that this is a dust hazard, it’s a mechanical particle thing. It is the same for any dust. Mineral makeup isn’t any more dusty than any other face powder or body powder or baking flour. It’s all dust.

I’m not concerned about it.

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I see that a lot of you express your concern about products made in China, and that’s not surprising considering how much negative media there is about problems there.

But I want to let you know it’s not all bad news. While researching a product, I found they use a service called Verite, which monitors and improves labor conditions around the world. Their vision for the global workplace: “safe, fair, sustainable.”

While they don’t give a list of products or companies that use fair trade labor in China, you may run across products, as I did, that mention they are manufactured in Verite monitored factories in China.

Now, it’s still more sustainable to buy products made in the USA, but at least we know it’s not complete chaos in China.