Question from Liz
Hi Debra,
Recently you’ve been talking about electronics. I have a big problem with dust. I was using damp flannel and then washing it then I realized my washer must have the chemicals now. I probably should dust with disposable wipes. Do you have a suggestion?
Debra’s Answer
I wouldn’t use disposable wipes since they are often scented.
Maybe damp paper towels?
But the problem is bigger than this. Those chemicals from electronics are also getting into the air in your home. You would need an air filter to handle that.
This caught my eye because I usually dust my home with microfiber cloths and also clean my tile floors with microfiber pads. I then wash these in the washing machine. I thought I remembered seeing another post here about how the washing machine gets rid of most flame retardant chemicals. I also run an empty load (no detergent, just water) to rinse the washing machine out after washing these cloths. Do you think that is sufficient? I would prefer not to use paper towels because of the cost, plus it would be very hard to use them on a large floor area. I have also heard that paper towels could contain chemicals as well. I don’t want to introduce flame retardants into my washing machine though either. However I was also thinking that when flame retardants get onto clothing (through dust, etc) that this too goes in the washing machine. I would definitely love to hear your thoughts Debra! Thank you!!!
If you put flame retardants on a cloth, it will come out in the washing machine when you wash it.