Eliminate Harmful Fume Sources in Your House

Found two to five times more toxic than outdoor air by the EPA (and in some cases far worse), the air inside your home can seriously impact your health. The World Health Organization reports poor indoor air quality from the release of harmful fumes is linked to almost 3% of the world’s disease burden, and according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, environmental factors have been identified over genetics as responsible for 80% of all cancers. Frequently exposed to carcinogenic chemicals, a large percentage of which are cleaning products, what’s a homeowner to do?

Become a Toxic Fumes Detector – and Eliminate the Culprits!

Replacing these common cleaning items with safer alternatives can help eliminate harmful fumes in your house, ridding toxic fumes symptoms like fatigue, headaches, allergies and flu-like symptoms, and respiratory issues that could lead to serious, long-term diseases like cancer.

PROBLEM: Nail Polish & Removers
Among the most toxic cosmetics, these items release phthalates, acetone, toluene, benzophenones, and more into the air quickly upon evaporation.
SOLUTION: Buy a Better Brand!
Spend a few more bucks on natural removers containing zero acetone and VOCs. Also invest in a safer brand of polish, like Honeybee Gardens, LVX, Piggy Paint, RGB, Sheswai, Suncoat and Zoya.
PROBLEM: Household Cleaning Supplies
Common household cleaners release toxins into the air that can cause respiratory distress.
SOLUTION: Make Your Own!
Swap-out chemical-laden products for cheaper, friendlier homemade alternatives. Add common grocery store items like lemon juice, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, borax, baking soda, washing soda to your cleaning arsenal, making your own chemical (and waste) free products:
PROBLEM: Dryer Sheets
Coat your clothes in a thin layer of chemicals and fragrances that are potentially toxic.
SOLUTION: Ditch them for Cheaper, Healthier Alternatives!
Add some vinegar to your washer’s rinse cycle and brighten, soften and even kill germs for pennies! Or opt for “green” versions that use natural scents or are scent-free. Replacing dryer sheets with Wool dryer balls can also be a cost-saving, chemical-free dryer sheet alternative to soften, reduce drying time and static, and help eliminate wrinkles. Buyer beware: If ingredients tout a small percentage of natural ingredients and “99% other” on the front label – you’re likely buying chemicals!
PROBLEM: Air Fresheners
Release an array of toxic chemicals, many of which are not disclosed on labels. Most release known human carcinogen formaldehyde from terpenes, and phthalates. Regular use of aerosols is linked with a whopping 30-50% increased risk of developing asthma.
SOLUTION: Absorb – Don’t Mask!
Rather than masking odors, or disabling your sense of smell, absorb them! Baking soda has been used as an odor absorber for generations with no known health effects. Vinegar can remove odors from surfaces when you spray-on and wipe-off or leave it out in a bowl. There are also tons of charcoal products on the market that safely absorb. Not enough? Safe but “scent-ilating” alternatives include 100% pure essential oils in a light bulb or diffuser.
PROBLEM: Candles
Paraffin and soot create carcinogens, and some candles carry (and release) lead from their wicks at dangerous levels.
SOLUTION: Bug Out!
Natural beeswax candles last longer, and can actually help purify indoor air.

Replacing items that release harmful fumes into your home is a great step toward improving your indoor air quality and health. But there is more you can do. Inadequate ventilation is the number one reason these fumes buildup in our homes, especially over the winter. Improved air filters and added air purifiers can further help this cause. Uncover the path to healthier air - your family’s health depends on it. Contact Aire Serv to schedule a free indoor air quality test today.

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