THE FAMILY ROOM
1. REMOVE THE DUST
Your upholstered chair, sofa, and carpet can harbor allergens like pollen, dust mites, and mold. They can also trap dust containing toxins like pesticides, lead, and fire-retardant chemicals. Kids breathe and ingest it as they crawl. Vacuum weekly with a HEPA filter and replace carpeting with wood floors to cut down on these exposures
2. WATCH THAT TV
Many TVs contain a flame retardant composed of polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs). When plastic in the TV heats up, toxins are released and settle into house dust, where they’re breathed in (or kids ingest them from hand-to-mouth behavior). Newer TVs may be PBDE free—but you have to ask. Dusting an older set regularly with a damp cloth helps trap dust particles.
3. RECYCLE E-WASTE
Computer parts contain lead, polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), and other toxic electronic waste (e-waste). Recycle responsibly. Find a qualified e-waste collector to recycle the old model. Or donate your old electronics to a charity to keep toxins out of landfills.
4. BURN SAFELY
A wood fire feels cozy. But in an airtight home, it can pollute indoor air. Wood smoke releases tiny soot particles and gases— which can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. For a safer fire, install a fireplace insert and check the chimney yearly. Install carbon monoxide alarms.
5. IDENTIFY LEAD PAINT
Ready to renovate? First, test your home for lead paint. Some homes built as recently as 1978 may have it. Even low-level lead exposure can affect brain development in a fetus, newborn or young child. With new paint, look for low or no-VOC products to avoid headaches, respiratory irritation and other problems.
6. PURIFY AIR NATURALLY
Indoor house plants bring nature into your house. NASA research shows they also act as living air purifiers. The foliage and roots work in tandem to absorb chemical pollutants released by synthetic materials. So go green: spider plants, many ferns and African violets are all nontoxic for kids and pets.
04.2012
www.greenbuildermag.com 58
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