Is your living space free of
chemicals?
While furnishing your
home or office, it is important to ensure that the materials and decor you
incorporate are free of harsh chemicals and toxins. To help you make the right choice, here’s an
informative guide on the materials available in the market
The growing
consciousness and awareness with regards to the long-term effects of toxins and
harsh chemicals on health has made consumers more selective and cautious while
furnishing their homes and offices. Be
it a rental or an owned property, it is imperative to choose furniture and
decor that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also free of harsh chemicals
as these can affect one’s health. Wood
that is chemically treated, wall paints, and fabrics from synthetic fibres are
known to negatively impact one’s health.
Here is a list
of toxic elements and healthy alternatives that you should know about you set
out to furnish your home.
Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOC)
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals
that vaporise easily bringing gas pollutants indoors from various sources. VOCs are found in furniture made of
compressed wood and plastic, along with deodorants, paints and other home
furnishings. Dry-cleaned clothing, moth
repellents and air fresheners are some other sources of these pollutants. Chronic exposure to some of these products
can not only increase the risk of cancer but also cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory
tract irritation, asthma and damage to the nervous system.
One way to protect
yourself from these chemicals is to facilitate outgassing. Proper ventilation is essential to release
these VOCs so that they don’t become trapped in the room. To facilitate this, you can leave them
unwrapped for a couple of days in a well-ventilated room or an outdoor space
before you begin using them. With
regards to furniture, choosing vintage, antique and hardwood furniture over
compressed or particle board variants will eliminate VOCs.
Say no to synthetic
materials
Furniture made of synthetic materials is naturally more
attractive to customers as it is cheaper than real wood furniture. Synthetic fibres contain toxic dyes that pose
a threat to our health. Some studies
even suggest evidence of microplastics in the human placenta. Additionally, these materials increase the
risk of cancer, diabetes, and reproductive disorders. Yoga mats made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVL)
and upholstered furniture made of fake leather should be substituted with
natural materials and non-toxic elements such as jute, hemp and organic cotton,
among others.
Healthy alternatives
Now that you know better, choose the most natural materials
for your fabrics and furnishings to lead a healthier life. Opt for materials that are natural
and as chemical-free as possible.
Additionally, pick products that are sustainably made and follow fair
trade practices.
Big on bamboo
If you are looking for natural materials for your home, consider bamboo, which is an excellent alternative to
tropical wood. Not only is it
long-lasting but also sustainable and strong.
It continues to grow even after it is cut. However, avoid bamboo products that contain
plastic in them.
Create with cotton
Cotton is a biodegradable material and therefore good for
the environment. If you’re eager to
ensure that your home is chemical-free, opt for organic and certified cotton
products. As a material, cotton is easy
to clean, requires less water for its production and is also suitable for
people with sensitive skin and allergies.
Joy of jute
A very important natural fibre for textiles, jute is water-absorbent and resistant to wear and tear.
When manufactured using non-toxic vegetable oils instead of harmful
mineral oils, jute fibres become less toxic.
Wonders of wood
furniture
Wood is clearly one of the oldest, most natural, and
renewable resources, which works well indoors.
Choose solid natural untreated wood which is free of varnishes and
paints.
Magic of metals
Gold, silver, and brass are all natural materials. If you are prone to allergies, gold and
silver are your best bet. Brass when
alloyed without nickel is also a great alternative. One way to check the toxicity levels in these
products is to ascertain how they were mined and manufactured and if they meet
all the norms and certifications of fair trade.
With plenty of
options to choose from, make a shift towards more natural materials for your
home, to lead a healthier and fuller life.
Thanks - TIMES PROPERTY