respiratory irritations, asthma and al- lergic reactions. They may also contain VOCs and the known carcinogens, benzene and formaldehyde.

Reduce the use of disinfectants. Ex-

posure to antimicrobial chemicals has been linked to potential health impacts, and their overuse has contributed to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, or “superbugs.”

Scientists agree that soap and

water are effective for most routine cleaning jobs, and research has dem- onstrated that safer alternatives, such as vinegar and borax, have antibacte- rial properties. Two simple solutions to prevent bacteria growth on sponges and cloths are microwaving sponges for one minute and regularly laundering washcloths.

Make nontoxic cleaning products.

Simple and inexpensive ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and borax can be used in many different ways for effective cleaning. Adding essential oils such as lavender or rosemary infuses a fresh scent and boosts antibacterial properties. Have fun learning to make natural cleaning products by buying ingredients in bulk and throwing a green cleaning party with friends (free Green Cleaning Party Kit at Women

AndEnvironment.org).

Finally, WVE suggests we buy products from manufacturers that disclose ingredients on the label. If the ingredients aren’t listed, call the product’s customer service number and ask the company to disclose them. It’s a good way to ensure that our homes stay clean—and healthy.

Download a free Safer Cleaning Prod- ucts fact sheet at WAToxics.org/files/ cleaningproducts.pdf.

Erin Switalski is the executive director of Women’s Voices for the Earth (WomenAndEnvironment.org). WVE’s Safe Cleaning Products Initiative is a national effort intended to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in cleaning products. Sign the petition at http:// tinyurl.com/yln44bt. For more informa- tion on chemical policy reform, visit SaferChemicals.org.

Safeguard Your Indoor Air Quality

by Norman Zboray

A

lthough the term indoor air quality (IAQ) has existed for more than 50 years, only recently have we begun to relate our personal health to the health of our homes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, symptoms such as itchy eyes, fatigue, headaches and allergies can be directly attributed to poor indoor air quality. Our IAQ can change on a daily basis, depending upon such factors as the toxic or nontoxic cleaning products we use to power through household dirt and bacteria, as well as the products and chemicals we transport from outdoors to indoors, particularly during a home or office renovation project. Following the guidelines in Erin Switalski’s The Dirt on Cleaning will prove helpful, as will de termining the toxicity of a product before buying it. When renovating a home, be careful not to introduce building materials such as pressed wood products and hardwood ply- wood paneling, glues and adhesives, or paints and coating products that contain formalde- hyde or other toxic chemicals that off-gas and negatively impact IAQ.

During the last few decades, while toxic

substances such as formaldehyde, radon and asbestos have been tested, many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have become more difficult to be measured directly. This leaves homeowners to make challenging choices regarding the products they introduce into their home. Although the marketplace has become flooded with “greenwashed” products claiming to be eco-friendly, zero-VOC or green, these terms can be confusing. Consumers should take steps to be “green smart” and ask manufacturers or green product dealers to provide documentation and an- swer questions that can help them determine which products are least likely to negatively affect their IAQ.

Our indoor air quality can change on a daily basis, depending upon such factors as the toxic or nontoxic cleaning products we use, as well as the products and chemicals we transport from outdoors to indoors.

Norman Zboray, owner of Green With Envy Home Store, is a green home reno- vation specialist. Contact him at 732-640-4221 or email NZboray@comcast.net. Visit GreenWithEnvyHomeStore.com.

natural awakenings

May 2010

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