Question from Stephanie
Hi. I just moved to a new apartment in a new city. Since I’ve gotten here I’ve had debilitating headaches everyday. Before we moved in, the landlords cleaned the apartment, including the carpeting (1/2 the apartment is carpeted) with strong chemicals and deoderizers. Though the smell has mostly gone away, I suspect that the chemicals they used are responsible for my headaches.
I know so little about creating a healthy home environment, since this is all new to me, and I have very little money, so I am wondering what I can do about my present situation, given that I’m here in this apartment now, and moving out is not a realistic option at this point in time.
I am switching to non-toxic cleaners, but I am wondering if there is anything I can do about the chemicals they’ve already used? Will recleaning the rugs and closets with non-toxic products, like baking soda, get rid of the chemicals? Would investing in an air purifier help? Is there something else I can do to get rid of the chemicals and neutralize the environment?
Thank you!!
Debra’s Answer
There are several things you can do right away that won’t cost much money.
First, simply open the windows. It’s probably still pretty cold in Pennsylvania, but it will start to warm up soon. Invest in a small fan that can pull indoor air out the window, or, better yet, get two fans and set up some cross-ventilation. This is assuming the outdoor air quality is pretty good, and you are not on a busy street or something like that.
If you are in a place where the outdoor air quality is worse, you may need to get an air filter. See Debra’s List: Air FIlters.
As a rule, natural cleaning products don’t remove chemicals. Other chemicals remove chemicals. However, you can probably remove some of the residual carpet chemicals by using a steam cleaning machine such as a Rug Doctor, sold in many supermarkets.
Heat is always a good way to “bake out” chemicals. Just turn up your heat as high as it goes, with windows and doors closed, and leave for the day. Then open the windows and air out. Repeat as needed. Be sure to remove plants and pets.
Readers, any other suggetions?
