Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Is your babies nursery toxic ?



6 things you can do for a healthier nursery


1. Bed / cot - Avoid particle boards and wood products that are bound together with glues.
    Glues often contain formaldehyde - a carcinogen that offgasses / releases fumes.
    Solution - choose hardwoods, with low VOC or zero VOC paints and stains.

2. Mattress - Avoid polyurethane foam & flame retardant chemicals.
    Solution - choose natural fibers such as wool, organic cotton.

3. Sheets & blankets - avoid synthetic sheeting and blankets, avoid crush free products as these
    often contain formaldehyde.
    Solution - organic cotton sheeting and blankets, wool blankets

4. Wall art - avoid plastic artwork / decals as plastics release VOCs (fumes) into the air
     Solution - opt for timber, cane/rattan or fabric decor items

5. Toys - Avoid plastics as they release VOCs and  contaminate indoor air, also if mouthed by babies
    can leach phthalate chemicals that are hormone disruptors.
    Solution - Choose toys that are made from hardwoods with natural non toxic stains, fabric items

6. Plants assist with cleaning indoor air - Add a hanging plant in the room to help clean the air



Monday, November 7, 2011

Top 10 + 1 reasons


Why wool products are a great option 
for a healthy home.
image courtesy of greenworld365



  • Wool fibre takes only a small fraction of the energy used to produce synthetic fibre.
  • Wool is a natural fibre and low in toxins and odours (VOCs).
  • Wool is naturally fire resistant, no need for flame retardant additives.
  • Wool has high level of insulation capacity - great for carpets and rugs - sound proof insulation for noise reduction.
  • Wool has a natural water resistance - water beads on top of fibres, great attribute for carpets and soft furnishings.
  • Natural wool is a renewable resource and biodegradable.
  • Wool is a soft comfortable fibre.
  • Wool has a unique crimp structure which gives it natural bounce and durability - natural cushioning.
  • Wool acts as a filter, helping to clean the air within the space - wool is able to remove formaldehyde from indoor air.
  • Wool fibre breathes which allows the fibre to dry when wet - minimising potential for mold.
  • Wool is easily accessible in many colours and textures.



read more - CSIRO report