Winter and Indoor Pollution

Winter and Indoor Pollution

Cinnamon Fern

   Winter is here, and we close the windows, turn on the heat. Everything has a sense of being locked in. Over the last few years we have all become more conscious about not burning so much fuel for heat, so we have made our homes more insulated to keep the warmth in.
   However, in doing so, it is good to be aware of pollutants inside the home.
   The first items are mold and dust. Mold is generally more of a problem in Autumn when the leaves are decaying, and in Summer and Spring when the heavy rains come. In Winter, mold cannot live below a certain temperature, but we have had a relatively mild winter, and mold issues are increasing. Dust is always present, which is why we must clean on a regular basis. Many people have or can develop allergies to mold and dust.
   But the other things to consider are things like the materials we clean with. Most chemical ingredients in every day cleaners are somewhat toxic, and with the windows closed and no ventilation it is worse. It is recommended to purchase cleaners online or in health food stores that do not contain harmful chemicals. Or it is possible to use vinegar for cleaning, or herbs like rosemary or mint that both have a medicinal quality.
   Most people are not aware that often carpets in homes also have chemicals or are made of materials like acrylic. Area rugs made of wool or jute are non toxic as an example of an alternative. And the glues that many companies use to hold down wall to wall carpet are also toxic. Natural flooring like bamboo or cork are other good alternatives. The point is, shop around.
   I myself have wood floors. But I did not stain them - I left them natural and after they were sanded I had the professionals apply a water based polyurethane that is less toxic. Even so, after the floors were done I left the windows open for 2 weeks to air out the whole house. Looking back I would not have opted for the polyurethane but simply put area rugs down, which can be washed or replaced.
   One of the dangers of new wood, is that when wood is new it off gases formaldehyde. That new house smell or that new car smell? That is formaldehyde. If you have wood in the house that is old, not to worry, it is no longer off gassing most likely.
   Some solutions are to open your windows occasionally. I sleep with one window open a crack so I can smell the fresh air and bundle up with blankets for warmth. Another solution of course is to use natural materials whenever possible. You can slowly begin to replace old materials for new. Nontoxic cleaners will also help.
   Another one of my favorite solutions is the use of plants. Plants are excellent at removing toxins from the air. Just note that at night plants off gas carbon dioxide, so don't add them to your bedroom where you sleep, although many say the amount of carbon dioxide is minimal.. My living room and desk area have lots of lovely plants. There are many varieties that will grow indoors in any kind of light. Pothos will grow in dark rooms. I also have 2 ferns, which need filtered light, and not too much water, but you can't let them dry out either. Peace lilies are also nice, requiring moderate sunlight. If you have enough light African violets add some color to your home. But never get the leaves wet on African violets for they will wither and die. Spider plants are also easy to take care of and grow a great deal, making new shoots of growth that are like baby tiny plants, and their green and white foliage is unique. Philodendrons are also supposedly easy to grow, although I have not had any experience with them. The same with Diffenbachia, which also has varigated green and white broad leaves that are attractive. Again it depends on how much light you have and what is available in your area. Also remember that some plants and flowers can be toxic to pets and young children.

Ahh, clean fresh water from a mountain stream in Upstate New York

   Today most paints are less toxic than they used to be. Remember that strong paint odor after painting a room? That is the VOC's - volatile organic compounds - but there is less in the paint these days. You can shop around for the best brands that have the lowest amount of VOC's. Even so, if I paint, I open the windows. Very often people will paint a new baby's room before the arrival, but if done too soon the chemicals will still be lingering. If painting at all it should be done several months before the expected birth, and the room should be aired out regularly for those months.
   Another suggestion is an air purifier which will remove alot of toxins and pollutants, as well as allergens.
   For those who use air conditioners in the summer, air conditioners will also remove alot of pollutants and allergens, especially helpful for those who have allergies and or asthma. But air conditioners do use alot of electricity, so each person can decide on their own what works best for them.
   I hope this has been helpful, but at least you can be more aware of your surroundings and take steps to make your home as clean as possible. 
   In addition to reading articles, some of what I have learned came from taking at course at the International Institute of Bau Biologie and Ecology, which emphasizes building with and using natural materials.

Maery
Be well, live well and live naturally