Beneath the Surface: What’s Really in Your Home?

We often consider our homes a refuge, a place where we can unwind and feel secure. Yet surprisingly, within our everyday surroundings, there may be items that unknowingly contribute to both environmental harm and potential health issues. At WLLW, we believe in the power of small, mindful choices. Creating a safer home environment doesn't require an overwhelming overhaul. By being informed and making conscious adjustments, you can significantly reduce exposure to harmful substances while promoting sustainability.

Bed Linens & Bedding

Your bed is where you spend a third of your life, so it’s important to ensure that your linens and bedding support your health. Unfortunately, many conventional bed linens are made from cotton grown with pesticides or synthetic fibers treated with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, which is used to make sheets wrinkle-resistant. These chemicals can off-gas or cause respiratory and skin irritation.

Healthier Alternative: Opt for bed linens made from organic cotton or other natural fibers such as linen. Flax, the origin of linen, is highly sustainable as it is pest-resistant, needs no chemical treatment or fertilizer and requires little water to thrive. Organic cotton is also grown without harmful pesticides or fertilizers, ensuring a cleaner, safer sleep environment. In addition, linens certified by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) offer assurance that both environmental and ethical standards are met during production.

Mattresses

Many conventional mattresses are made with polyurethane foam and treated with flame retardants, which can emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) over time. Exposure to VOCs has been linked to headaches, dizziness and other long-term health effects. Mattresses can also contain phthalates and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals that are particularly concerning for young children and pregnant women.

Healthier Alternative: Plant-derived natural latex is better for the planet than synthetic foam, the production of which leaves residual toxins in the sheets of foam. In contrast, natural latex is derived from the sap of rubber trees and is produced without the use of harmful chemicals or toxic by-products.

Upholstery & Textiles

The upholstery on your furniture and drapery might contain synthetic materials that are treated with flame retardants, stain repellents, and other chemicals that can off-gas into your home. Commonly used chemicals like Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in stain-resistant treatments have been linked to various health risks, including hormone disruption and increased cancer risk.

Healthier Alternative: Consider opting for natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, wool or hemp. Not only do these materials offer a softer, more breathable feel, but they are also free from harmful treatments. Additionally, natural fibers are biodegradable, reducing environmental harm at the end of their life cycle. Choose upholstery that carries certifications such as Greenguard or OEKO-TEX.

Rugs

Rugs can be a source of indoor air pollution, especially when made from synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester. Many synthetic rugs are treated with stain repellents, mothproofing chemicals and flame retardants, which can contribute to indoor air quality issues and are difficult to break down in the environment. New carpets are known to emit VOCs, which can lead to headaches, respiratory problems and skin irritation. Even routine vacuuming can aggravate the issue by stirring up allergens, making the air quality worse instead of improving it. Another important aspect to consider is the rug pad beneath your rug. Many conventional rug pads are made from inexpensive PVC, a plastic that can contain harmful toxins.

Healthier Alternative: Opt for rugs made from natural, untreated fibers like wool, jute or sisal. Wool is naturally stain-resistant and flame-retardant, while jute and sisal offer sustainable, biodegradable options. Handmade, fair-trade options are also worth considering to support artisans while ensuring the sustainability of your purchase. Select rug pads made from natural rubber, wool or felt, which are free from many of the chemicals found in PVC-based products.

Furniture

Many affordable furniture options are made from Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF), a material that often contains formaldehyde-based resins. Over time, these resins can off-gas formaldehyde into the air, which can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and has been classified as a human carcinogen by the World Health Organization. MDF is common in flat-pack furniture and may seem like a cost-effective solution, but the long-term health risks are significant.

Healthier Alternative: Opt for solid wood furniture made from sustainably sourced materials. Solid wood not only offers better durability and aesthetics, but it’s also free from harmful formaldehyde-based resins. Furniture made from reclaimed wood or certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures you’re making a more sustainable choice. Alternatively, seek out furniture brands that use non-toxic finishes and glues, further reducing indoor air pollution and chemical exposure.

Paint

Paint might seem harmless, but many conventional paints contain high levels of VOCs, which can be released into the air for years after application. Paint is one of the most significant sources of VOCs in homes, making it a priority for anyone aiming to create a healthier living space.

Healthier Alternative: There are now plenty of healthy, sustainable paint brands available that meet stringent environmental standards, such as Greenguard or Cradle to Cradle certifications. Natural paints made from clay-based plasters, minerals, milk or plant-based oils offer better, healthier choices for people and the planet.

The Importance of Home Maintenance:

Refrigerator grills and base panels can accumulate dust and debris, while dishwashers and washing machines, if not cleaned regularly, can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria. Vacuum cleaners, when filters aren’t properly maintained, can release dust, mold and allergens back into the air, worsening indoor air quality. Even commonly used appliances, like air conditioners and humidifiers, can harbor harmful contaminants if neglected. Maintaining and regularly cleaning these everyday household items is crucial for reducing exposure to allergens and maintaining a healthy living environment.

Other surprising culprits in the home include air vents and ductwork, which can accumulate dust, mold and other allergens if not regularly cleaned, circulating harmful particles throughout your living space. Pet beds, which may seem harmless, often trap allergens, dander and bacteria. Scented candles and air fresheners, while meant to enhance the atmosphere, can release harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene, affecting respiratory health.

While it might feel overwhelming to consider the items in our homes that might be harmful, small, mindful choices can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals while supporting environmental sustainability. By opting for healthier alternatives you can create a home that nurtures wellbeing for both your family and the planet.

For more information and to see how WLLW can help you create a home that promotes better health and wellbeing, head over to our studio to learn about our Healthy Homes Consulting.

Photography: Lemieux et Cie, Billal Baruk Taright, Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen of Norm Architects, Joe Fletcher