See this at: checnet.org| Added on 07/03/06

Assessment. We'll tell you what you're doing right and what more you can do to create a healthier home for your family. If you don't have time for the full quiz today, try our mini-quiz for a general evaluation.

Assessment. We'll tell you what you're doing right and what more you can do to create a healthier home for your family. If you don't have time for the full quiz today, try our mini-quiz for a general evaluation. See less

See this at: checnet.org| Added on 07/03/06

Furniture makes our homes comfortable, livable spaces. But whether we're talking about the sofa or a baby's crib, there are a few things to consider about materials used to construct furniture. Both wood and upholstered furniture can contain... See more

Furniture makes our homes comfortable, livable spaces. But whether we're talking about the sofa or a baby's crib, there are a few things to consider about materials used to construct furniture. Both wood and upholstered furniture can contain unhealthy glues, particleboard, chip board, pressed wood and plywood. All of these can emit formaldehyde and other VOCs for months. Wood furniture finishes, particularly those that are oil-based, may also offgas chemicals. Upholstered furniture typically contains polyurethane foam, which may offgas VOCs, as well. This foam and covering fabrics are often treated with chemical-laden finishes for stain-resistance, waterproofing and flame retardancy. New evidence is showing that one type of commonly used flame retardant, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), may be as persistent and dangerous as DDT and PCBs. Researchers have found that PBDEs accumulates in human breast milk. Another chemical, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), used to guard against... See less

Highlights: Growing children are vulnerable to pollutants in our homes. Some products expose children to harm. Limiting toxins is important for your family. Small changes make a big..

See this at: dienviro.com| Added on 10/01/06

Learn about hazards found in many homes, schools and other facilities, including: * Chemicals in Cleaners & Other Household Products (glossary courtesy of Lifekind Products, Inc.) * General Terms (source: EPA) * Our Lists (See below, and please click... See more

Learn about hazards found in many homes, schools and other facilities, including: * Chemicals in Cleaners & Other Household Products (glossary courtesy of Lifekind Products, Inc.) * General Terms (source: EPA) * Our Lists (See below, and please click on each term for complete information) See less

See this at: msnbc.msn.com| Added on 11/17/06

Why it’s so important that we provide our children with non-toxic hospitals, schools and homes.

Why it’s so important that we provide our children with non-toxic hospitals, schools and homes. See less

See this at: sustainlane.com| Added on 07/03/06

Flame retardants are not the only source of chemicals in mattresses. They also come in the polyurethane foam and polyester coverings in conventional mattresses. What makes these materials attractive to major mattress manufacturers is their price:... See more

Flame retardants are not the only source of chemicals in mattresses. They also come in the polyurethane foam and polyester coverings in conventional mattresses. What makes these materials attractive to major mattress manufacturers is their price: They’re much less expensive than natural materials such as latex, wool, and organic cotton used in chemical-free mattresses. Unlike the natural fibers, however, polyester and polyurethane don’t breathe, creating a potentially toxic micro-climate beneath your sheets. See less

Highlights: Fortunately, with a little research, you can find alternatives to conventional mattresses that use all-natural materials like latex, organic cotton, wool, and even hemp....

See this at: chem-tox.com| Added on 08/16/06

While bed mattresses were previously made of untreated natural materials, the majority of mattresses today are made using a variety of petroleum based chemicals, foams, plastics and controversial flame retardants. Research and personal accounts... See more

While bed mattresses were previously made of untreated natural materials, the majority of mattresses today are made using a variety of petroleum based chemicals, foams, plastics and controversial flame retardants. Research and personal accounts suggest people can in fact become ill by repeated and continuous exposure to the low level of chemicals continuously emitted during the sleep process. The situation is dramatically compounded by the fact that sleeping on a bed (or chemically manufactured pillow) places the individual in extremely close proximity to the chemical source (inches compared to feet for most other chemical exposures). This direct contact means that concentrations of chemicals are many, many times higher than they would be if the source was at a greater distance, and thereby becoming less harmful because of dilution. Research is now available showing that chemicals used in bed manufacturing are in fact evaporating and entering into the air. Some of these are... See less

Highlights: plastics and controversial flame retardants. Research and personal accounts suggest people can in fact become ill by repeated and continuous exposure to the low level of chemicals continuously emitted during the sleep process. The situation is dramatically compounded by the fact that...

See this at: workingforchange.com| Added on 07/03/06

As you know, toxins that have a mild effect on most adults can have a stronger impact on infants and children. The smaller bodies and unpracticed immune systems of young humans are simply not as able to cope. We should be cautious about such choices,... See more

As you know, toxins that have a mild effect on most adults can have a stronger impact on infants and children. The smaller bodies and unpracticed immune systems of young humans are simply not as able to cope. We should be cautious about such choices, but I know it can be hard to toe the line between reasonable caution and massive panic when it comes to one's children. The aim is to do the best you can. See less

See this at: pureslumber.com| Added on 07/03/06

Pregnant mothers exercise extra caution and awareness in what they do to their bodies while they are pregnant. They strive to eat healthy and avoid unhealthy behaviors that might possibly affect their unborn babies. To most, babies are symbolic of... See more

Pregnant mothers exercise extra caution and awareness in what they do to their bodies while they are pregnant. They strive to eat healthy and avoid unhealthy behaviors that might possibly affect their unborn babies. To most, babies are symbolic of purity and perfection. While growing in their mothers's womb, they are protected by the amniotic fluid surrounding them and they arrive into this world, pure and unadulterated. Exposure to our industrialized world won’t happen for years to come, right? Not so fast. In the first benchmark investigation of its kind (Body Burden — The Pollution in Newborns, conducted by the Environmental Working, July 14, 2005, http://www.ewg.org/reports/bodyburden2/execsumm.php) the blood from babies' umbilical cords was analyzed for industrial chemicals and pollutants. “Two hundred and sixty-one chemicals were targeted. The number of chemicals actually found was 287, 180 of which are known carcinogens in humans and animals, 217 are toxic to the brain and... See less

Highlights: Given the circumstances, it seems reasonable that our best and most obvious course of action (one within our own immediate control) is to limit ours and our family’s exposure to environmental chemicals whenever and wherever possible. There are many ways that we can limit significant...

See this at: es.epa.gov| Added on 07/03/06

Toxic chemicals in the home can be eliminated simply by making thoughtful choices in the supermarket after educating oneself about where the hazards are in common consumer products. How can you determine what toxics you have in your home? Take this... See more

Toxic chemicals in the home can be eliminated simply by making thoughtful choices in the supermarket after educating oneself about where the hazards are in common consumer products. How can you determine what toxics you have in your home? Take this "toxics tour." See less

Highlights: A number of products are likely to contain toxic ingredients: carpet cleaner, room deodorizer, laundry softener, laundry detergent, anti-cling sheets, mold and mildew...

See this at: sustainlane.com| Added on 07/03/06

When you invest in nontoxic, sustainable furniture, you improve the environment in your home and help limit damage to the world at large. It's easy to find healthy furniture if you know what to look for.

When you invest in nontoxic, sustainable furniture, you improve the environment in your home and help limit damage to the world at large. It's easy to find healthy furniture if you know what to look for. See less

Highlights: 1. Sustainable upholstering fabrics. Pass up synthetic fibers, including acrylic, nylon, polyester, and polypropylene. Also, steer clear of chemically treated natural...

See this at: eartheasy.com| Added on 07/03/06

There are many inexpensive, easy-to-use natural alternatives which can safely be used in place of commercial household products. Here is a list of nine ordinary, environmentally safe products which can be used alone or in combination for a wealth of... See more

There are many inexpensive, easy-to-use natural alternatives which can safely be used in place of commercial household products. Here is a list of nine ordinary, environmentally safe products which can be used alone or in combination for a wealth of household applications. See less

See this at: holisticmed.com| Added on 07/03/06

In a moderate number of cases, but certainly not all, disease is caused or contributed to by toxic exposures. These toxic exposures often involve low-level, long-term exposure that is not identified by the patient or healthcare practitioner. In such... See more

In a moderate number of cases, but certainly not all, disease is caused or contributed to by toxic exposures. These toxic exposures often involve low-level, long-term exposure that is not identified by the patient or healthcare practitioner. In such cases, the victim of the exposure is happily living his or her life not recognizing that slow poisoning and damage is occuring. Such damage often results in or contributes greatly to a number of chronic and debilitating diseases. See less

Highlights: I will present a sampling of unhealthy substances below. The fact that these substances are toxic or unhealthy is largely common knowledge in the holistic healthcare...

See this at: thegreenguide.com| Added on 01/03/07

Greener Ikea's affordable $159-and-up mattresses contain alternative flame retardants that, according to the U.S. Green Building Council, haven't raised significant consumer health or environmental concerns. But I settled on a conventional Sealy... See more

Greener Ikea's affordable $159-and-up mattresses contain alternative flame retardants that, according to the U.S. Green Building Council, haven't raised significant consumer health or environmental concerns. But I settled on a conventional Sealy Posturepedic full mattress/ box-spring set (about $399), which is free of Teflon stain- and water-resistant treatment and uses the new fiber-based flame-retardant barriers. I also chose a coilspring mattress, which contains less PU foam. To further reduce my exposures to VOCs, I'm saving up to buy an organic-cotton mattress encasement, which will also block allergenic dust mites (see Resources). Greenest A Natural Home's "Simply Affordable" furniture line includes twin- and full-sized organic cotton and organic wool mattresses ($450 and $500, respectively). Savvy Rest has two styles of natural latex mattresses (with organic wool quilting and organic cotton casing) that, starting at $1,049, cost less than most made with these materials. Bed... See less

Highlights: To further reduce my exposures to VOCs, I'm saving up to buy an organic-cotton mattress encasement, which will also block allergenic dust mites (see Resources). Greenest A Natural Home's "Simply Affordable" furniture line includes twin- and full-sized organic cotton and organic wool...

See this at: allergybuyersclub.co...| Added on 07/03/06

Certified organic blankets, come in full, queen, king throw and 2 styles of baby blankets. Beautiful, natural chemical free cotton which is soft to the touch! From: $35

Certified organic blankets, come in full, queen, king throw and 2 styles of baby blankets. Beautiful, natural chemical free cotton which is soft to the touch! From: $35 See less

See this at: anaturalhome.com| Added on 07/03/06

A Natural Home is an Ohio based family run company dedicated to bringing quality eco-friendly organic cotton, wool and natural latex products to the marketplace. We make PBDE FREE mattresses. We design and manufacture formaldehyde free upholstered... See more

A Natural Home is an Ohio based family run company dedicated to bringing quality eco-friendly organic cotton, wool and natural latex products to the marketplace. We make PBDE FREE mattresses. We design and manufacture formaldehyde free upholstered sofas, couches, and chairs for your home and office. We are the only Midwest or Eastern manufacturer of organic mattresses and bedding in the United States. See less

See this at: ahappyplanet.com| Added on 07/03/06

Since 1981, Pacific Rim Woodworking has offered hand-crafted, solid maple furniture at affordable prices. They use Western Maple grown in managed forests in Washington and Oregon. To highlight the natural beauty of this distinctive hardwood, each... See more

Since 1981, Pacific Rim Woodworking has offered hand-crafted, solid maple furniture at affordable prices. They use Western Maple grown in managed forests in Washington and Oregon. To highlight the natural beauty of this distinctive hardwood, each piece is hand-rubbed with a non-toxic finish. Enduring quality and simple elegance are the hallmarks of their contemporary American style. Each item is made to order in the USA, please allow 4-8 weeks for delivery. Note: Freight surcharges will apply to larger furniture pieces depending on destination. See less

Highlights: WEB ORDERS - 5% Discount on all on Non-sale items

See this at: el-furniture.com| Added on 07/03/06

Jill Salisbury, founder and chief designer of el:Environmental Language, constantly applies nature's wisdom into the design of her furniture. Her innovative approach balances high style with eco-friendly solutions that meet with the most stringent... See more

Jill Salisbury, founder and chief designer of el:Environmental Language, constantly applies nature's wisdom into the design of her furniture. Her innovative approach balances high style with eco-friendly solutions that meet with the most stringent environmental and performance standards available. The integrity of el is assured through its promise of heirloom quality craftsmanship. The result is an eco-chic interpretation that celebrates the materials as well as the design. See less

Highlights: el constructs its upholstered furniture with natural latex, wrapped in cotton batting and barrier cloth. While components are natural, el cannot promise 100% organic...

See this at: amazon.com| Added on 07/03/06

This is a beautifully put-together book focusing on a unique aspect of plant ownership. Entries include both a full-on picture of a healthy, attractively potted specimen, plus a close-up detail of leaves &/or flowers. Descriptions of plant care are... See more

This is a beautifully put-together book focusing on a unique aspect of plant ownership. Entries include both a full-on picture of a healthy, attractively potted specimen, plus a close-up detail of leaves &/or flowers. Descriptions of plant care are concise, well organized and accompanied by a more generalized description of the plant and particulars. Each plant is rated on four characteristics (removal of chemical vapors, ease of growth & maintenance, resistance to insect infestation, & transpiration rate), using an easy to read bar chart which appears on the same page as the description & picture. This book is an excellent addition to an avid collector's plant library, both for its curiosity value & beautiful coverage of basic houseplants, and doubtless of interest to people concerned about air quality as well. It also provides enough basic information on each plant to be a useful reference for beginning enthusiast, but I would qualify that by saying that newbies will probably want a... See less