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Sweet Dreams, Safe Dreams
Creating a Healthy Bedroom Environment
By Anat Cohen
In high concentrations and through long-term exposure, formaldehyde is a deadly carcinogenic substance. Formaldehyde and other toxic glues are ubiquitous in the production of hardwood, plywood, furniture and other pressed-wood products.
Leakage of formaldehyde from new furniture is preventable by varnishing, painting and sealing the furniture with a waterproof finish such as polyurethane. Formaldehyde can be smelled in high concentrations. If you suspect your child's room is polluted by these fumes, improve ventilation and place lots of potted spider plants around the room. A NASA report once showed that spider plants are capable of absorbing gaseous formaldehyde.
Carpets are a leading source of dust mites. Every time someone walks over the carpet in your child's room, dust mites are spread into the air, polluting it with allergens. However, this is only a small fraction of the problem.
New carpet fumes add to the toxic load. If possible, leave new carpeting to set out in strong sunlight for a few days. Also, have carpets installed in the summer, leaving all windows open for ventilation. These procedures will significantly reduce their toxicity.
Tile and hardwood floors are the best choices for healthy kids' rooms, especially if your child suffers from respiratory problems. Wall-to-wall carpets cannot be cleaned adequately, although steaming carpets thoroughly may be somewhat helpful.
Now that you know the trouble spots, stroll through your child's room to pinpoint the risk factors in your home. For each trouble spot, this article has provided some practical, "green" advice, useful tips and alternative techniques to foster children's health. After all, a healthy, robust body is your child's real castle.
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