Engineers confirm crib mattresses emit potentially harmful chemicals

In what they say is a first-of-its-kind study, a team of environmental engineers from The University of Texas at Austin has found that infants are indeed exposed to high levels of chemical emissions from crib mattresses while they sleep.

Analyzing the foam padding in crib mattresses, the team found that the mattresses release significant amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), potentially harmful chemicals also found in household items such as cleaners and scented sprays.

The researchers studied samples of polyurethane foam and polyester foam padding from 20 new and old crib mattresses. 

The researchers found:

• New crib mattresses release about four times as many VOCs as old crib mattresses.
• Body heat increases emissions.
• Chemical emissions are strongest in the sleeping infant's immediate breathing zone.

The 20 mattress samples are from 10 manufacturers. The researchers say they chose not to disclose the names of the manufacturers studied so that their results could draw general attention to the product segment without focusing on specific brands.

The researchers reported their findings in the February issue of Environmental Science & Technology.

Indoor Air Quality FAQ’s: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Among the most serious concerns in indoor air quality are Volatile Organic Compounds. VOCs are emitted as vapours from thousands of household products. According to studies by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, VOC levels are much higher in indoor air than outdoor air regardless of whether homes are located in rural, urban or industrial areas. An air purifier for VOCs uses an adsorbent to clean the air and is very different from a standard HEPA air purifier.

What products emit VOCs?
Organic chemicals are used widely in household products and release vapours while they are being used, and also while being stored. Cleaning supplies, air fresheners, paints and varnishes contain organic chemicals, as do many other products like building materials, furniture, office equipment and even dry-cleaned clothing. Due to the constant release of VOC’s in indoor air, an air purifier designed to remove chemicals and odors should be left on continuously on low speed. Turning off the air purifier could lead to a build-up of pollutants.

What are the health effects?
Many organic compounds have been directly linked to cancer in animal studies and are known or suspected human carcinogens. While individual VOCs have been tested, very little is known about the combined effects of the numerous products we use every day. Immediate short-term health effects include eye irritation, breathing problems, headaches, dizziness, nausea and problems with concentration and memory. 

How does an air purifier for VOC’s work? 
A good quality air purifier designed for chemicals and odors is a specialized product that is usually sold through a dealer and is rarely found in your local “mart” or hardware store. It uses a completely different filtration system than a cheaper air purifier for dust. That’s because standard HEPA air purifier filters can’t trap chemical vapours. The most effective filtration method for chemicals is deep-bed activated carbon. This heavy air purifier filter (usually 18 lbs. and over) is packed with highly porous granules that attract and trap chemicals, gases and odors. An activated carbon air purifier is considered so effective that they are widely used by the military and heavy industry for some of the world’s most toxic chemicals and odors. Some types of carbon air purifier filters are better suited for different chemicals. An expert air purifier manufacturer like AllerAir can recommend one of 40 blends to best deal with the chemicals in your indoor air.

Other Steps to Reduce Exposure

Along with an air purifier for chemicals and odors, there are some other simple steps to reduce VOC exposure:

·         When using chemical products, try to open windows to increase ventilation

·         Buy products in very small qualities that can be used-up quickly

·         Purchase new products that contain low or no VOCs

·         Avoid storing cleaners, paint cans, and varnishes in areas attached to the home

Learn More

For more information on VOCs, indoor air and which air purifier is right for you call an AllerAir Air Quality Expert at 1-888-852-8247 or chat live at www.allerair.com.

What is your home’s air quality?

Poor indoor air quality can affect
your health and well-being.

Indoor air pollution is becoming a major concern for health professionals, and the facts are frightening even for those who are familiar with them:

• Indoor air is 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• Breathing polluted air can cause or aggravate health conditions, including respiratory diseases such as asthma and allergies
• Indoor air pollution can be caused by a wide range of factors, including building materials, cleaning products, furniture, fabrics, renovations, electronic equipment, personal care products, air fresheners, pets, pesticides, and more

A home’s air quality can best be determined by a personal assessment of the home and each individual room, looking at the materials and furniture as well as housekeeping practices.

Some general statements apply universally. For example, a home with lots of carpeting may have more indoor air pollutants than a home with smooth flooring such as hardwood and ceramic tiles. Newer carpets often release volatile organic compounds, including formaldehyde, while older carpets often teem with dust particles, mold, bacteria and other contaminants.

Smoking is one of the biggest sources of indoor air pollution in the home and should be relegated to outside areas.

Air quality in the bedroom
The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the home to keep clean and healthy, since we spend so much time in it. Replacing carpet with hardwood floors (and a few small area rugs for comfort) will cut down on pollutants, as will the following tips:

• Keep clutter to a minimum. The less there is to clean and distract in the bedroom, the better.
• Don’t allow animals in the bedroom. Household pets can leave hair, dander, feathers or skin particles behind that can cause or aggravate allergic reactions.
• No more moth balls. Moth balls can contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, a pesticide. Try natural alternatives such as lavender.
• Air out dry-cleaned clothes before bringing them in. The chemicals used in the cleaning process can be irritating and harmful to health.
• Be mindful of peeling paint. If the house was built before 1978, the paint on the walls probably contained lead, which can lead to particle pollution when peeling off.

IAQ tips for the living room
The living room area is typically a popular hangout for members of the family, but there are many sources of possible IAQ contaminants:

• Assess the furniture. Sofas and armchairs can contain foam with flame retardants, and lighter fabrics are often treated with a stain-resistant product, which can off-gas fumes. Cover furniture in untreated, natural fabrics that can be washed and opt for the least toxic materials possible.
• Be wary of pressed-wood furniture and cabinets. These often release formaldehyde and other VOCs.
• Switch draperies and curtains with natural blinds or shutters. Curtain fabrics often attract dust and particles, and if they are treated, they can also release harmful chemicals and gases.

Tips for better IAQ in the home

Bathroom air quality tips
In the bathroom, it is recommended to run the vent to avoid high humidity levels and mold growth. Personal care products and air fresheners can expose household members to VOCs.

In the kitchen
Kitchen odors can affect indoor air quality, so using a stovetop range, keeping the kitchen clean with non-toxic cleaning agents such as vinegar and baking soda and keeping up impeccable household practices will help keep indoor air pollution to a minimum.

Basement and garage
The two areas in the home need extra attention because they are often used as storage areas. Keep these spaces as organized as possible, dispose of hazardous products properly and make sure there is proper ventilation. In the garage, be mindful of pesticides, fertilizers, stored fuels, old cans of paint and automotive products that can emit dangerous chemical fumes.

Need better indoor air? Make it happen with a carbon air purifier

Unusual or noticeable odors, stale air, excessive humidity and health reactions are all signs of indoor air quality problems that need to be addressed.

AllerAir has developed some of the best general purpose air purifiers on the market that feature a complete air filtration system with activated carbon and HEPA as well as optional UV to remove the widest range of contaminants.

AllerAir’s specialized air purifiers can handle concerns such as

• Chemical and odor control
• Mold
• Allergy and asthma
• Multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS)
• Tobacco smoke and more

Contact AllerAir for more information.
 
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Chemical-free cleaning made easy

Chemical cleaners can cause eye irritation
and other health problems.

A clean house can be a source of pride – but it can also mean poor indoor air quality, especially if it was cleaned with commonly available commercial cleaning products.

Popular cleaning agents lining the supermarket and big box store shelves are loaded with hazardous and often toxic chemicals. From chlorine to ammonia to a whole bunch of unknown chemicals in fragrances and scented cleaners, these products can leave behind dangerous fumes.

According to the American Lung Association, exposure to these cleaning agents can cause irritation to the eyes or the throat, headaches or other health problems. Studies have linked exposure to chemicals from cleaning supplies to occupational asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Products containing VOCs and other toxic substances include:

• Aerosol spray products, including health, beauty and cleaning products
• Chlorine bleach
• Detergent and dishwashing liquid
• Dry cleaning chemicals
• Rug and upholstery cleaners
• Furniture and floor polish
• Oven cleaners

Experts warn users to never mix cleaning products and to follow directions. Avoid air freshening products, which contain volatile organic compounds.

To make the home cleaning process greener and healthier, use reusable cleaning cloths and make your own cleaning products from non-toxic ingredients.

Some of the ingredients that can be used in all-purpose cleaners include white distilled vinegar, water and a few drops of essential oil such as tea tree oil, rosemary or lavender. Baking soda and vinegar can be used in the bathroom and as a toilet bowl cleaner. In many situations, warm water and soap will be more than enough to clean up messes, experts say.

Source (and recipes for cleaning alternatives):  Gloucester Township Patch

Air purifiers for cleaner and healthier air

A large activated carbon filter
can remove chemicals, odors
and volatile organic compounds.

Using non-toxic cleaners will help nix one common source of indoor air pollutants, but there are plenty of other ways that indoor spaces may be contaminated, including building materials and paint fumes, personal care products, mold, chemicals from furniture, treated fabrics and electronic equipment, and more.

An air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA can tackle these pollutants and remove them quickly and efficiently.

AllerAir has developed serious air purifiers for the home and office that feature the largest activated carbon filters, the most features and specialized options to provide the best air filtration system for virtually any IAQ concern.

Find the best customized air purifier for your needs – contact one of AllerAir’s IAQ experts today: 888-852-8247.
 
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Cleaning out the garage? Keep child safety in mind

An organized garage is safer and healthier.

The garage is a place where a lot of “stuff” accumulates.

Old paint cans, windshield wiper fluid, recreational equipment, tools, and so many other things can easily take over any semblance of organization or functionality.

But because of the the type of products often stored there, which include a lot of chemical and health hazards, organization and functionality are important to make sure the garage is safe – especially for households with children.

Cleaning out the garage regularly is a great way to prevent clutter, according to professional organizers, and homeowners should keep three bins in the garage at all time, labeled “sell”, “recycle” and “throw away.”

By going through the items in the garage every few months and emptying the bin once they get full, you can keep the clutter at bay.

Locking up hazardous materials or chemicals will keep children safe, and it might be a good idea to divide the garage into kid and adult zones as well as gardening, household supplies and auto care sections (or whatever other sections are needed) to make it easier to find things and to keep everything organized.

Keep things that need to be moved regularly (garbage bins, bikes) near the garage door.

Here are some other tips:

• Get rid of toxic and hazardous materials if you can. Instead, look for non-toxic or alternative products such as low or zero VOC paints, non toxic household supplies and greener fertilizers.
• Check expiration dates and drop off hazardous household items at drop-off spots or drives.
• Reorganize the garage so that dangerous tools and products are out of reach of children.
• Attach cabinets and shelves safely to the walls.

When it comes to paint cans, solvents, chemicals and similar products, the fumes can not only be a hazard in the garage, but they can become a health threat if they make their way into the home.

Making sure that connecting doors are safe and shut tight should be a priority.

Source: The Oregonian

Cleaner air in the home and the garage

Indoor air quality is important, whether it’s in the garage or in the home.

A portable air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA can help remove those airborne chemicals, odors, fumes, particles, allergens, dust, bacteria, viruses and molds that are floating around in the ambient air.

AllerAir has developed highly efficient air purifiers for general purpose air cleaning as well as for specialized IAQ concerns, including mold, allergy and asthma and heavy chemical and odor control.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
 

Moving? Watch out for toxic substances

Moving can be stressful and involve harmful toxins.

Moving can be exciting – but it can also be fraught with potentially hazardous materials.

With all the packing, dumping and sorting comes a new set of challenges:

Particles and dust
Even with the most vigorous cleaning regimen, large dust bunnies and particulate matter will gather underneath large pieces of furniture and in hard-to-reach corners. Disturbing them may send a large amount of fine particles into the air, which can aggravate allergies and asthma or cause respiratory symptoms such as sneezing and nose irritation.

Mystery substances
Unless the new space is brand new, chances are previous owners left some things behind. In the case of unmarked bottles or containers with mystery liquids, new homeowners should be extra vigilant to avoid accidental poisonings or toxic exposures. Bring all such containers to a hazardous household waste dump, if possible.

Cleaning products
Many movers like to scrub away all evidence of previous tenants with harsh chemicals and cleaning products, many of which can be harmful to human health. Make sure the place is well ventilated, and try to use the least toxic products possible.

Decorating / painting
Moving generally also means buying new furniture or household products and painting, as well as doing other types of renovations or maintenance projects. Many of these involve harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds that can affect people’s health and well-being. Choose the low- or zero-VOC paints when possible and the least toxic products you can find – your indoor air quality will thank you later.

Air purifiers for cleaner air

Airborne chemicals, puzzling odors and irritating particles don’t have to become permanent house guests – remove them with a portable and powerful air purifier with activated carbon + HEPA.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for general purpose air cleaning are equipped with a deep-bed carbon filter for chemicals, gases and odors, a HEPA filter for particles and dust and optional UV lamp for mold, bacteria and viruses.

For special indoor air quality concerns, AllerAir also offers air purifiers for allergy and asthma, air purifiers for tobacco smoke, air purifiers for mold and air purifiers for odor and chemical control.

Contact AllerAir for more information and personalized recommendations, or consult the model sizing and selection guide.

5 common chemical concerns at home

Indoor air pollution is a serious health risk,
according to health authorities such as the EPA.

Rarely do we pause to think about the air we are breathing every day at home and at the office.

But indoor air pollution has become a serious concern, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency ranks indoor air quality among its top four environmental health concerns.

Air quality indoors has become a bigger problem with the advent of more airtight homes and buildings, poor ventilation and higher emissions from a wide range of products.

As part of their 2012 National Men’s Health Week, Men’s Health Magazine published a guide to the 5 most common chemicals at home that can affect people’s health and well-being.

Household Cleaners and Disinfectants
Homeowners may like the “fresh” smell, but many of these products contain harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and cause headaches as well as nausea. Look for non-toxic cleaning products or use cleaning agents such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice.

Radon
Radon can become a problem in almost any house. The odorless, colorless and radioactive gas comes naturally from the decay of uranium in the soil and can enter homes through cracks and fissures in the foundation or building envelope. Since radon is often named as the second leading cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoke, it’s important to have the home tested and the problem mitigated, if necessary.

Paint
Many renovation and finishing products like paints, paint strippers, varnish removers and more contain harmful VOCs, including possible carcinogens benzene and methylene chloride. Opt for low- or zero-VOC products, or make sure the area is well ventilated.

Carbon Monoxide
The odorless gas comes from wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, furnaces, water heaters, gas cook tops and other sources and can be extremely harmful to human health.Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home and outside sleeping areas.

Formaldehyde
This known irritant and carcinogen is a common pollutant in any home, coming from furniture and building materials (especially pressed wood and particleboard), appliances, paints and many other sources. Good ventilation and air cleaning are key to reduce exposure.

Source: Men’s Health (pdf)

Air purifiers for the home and office

Airborne chemicals may be a common concern, but homeowners and family members may reduce their exposure by using a portable room air purifier with the right type of air filters.

A commercial air purifier with a HEPA filter is more like a dust collector than an air purifier, and it won’t be effective for chemicals, gases and odors. For those gaseous contaminants, a granular activated carbon filter is needed with at least 15-18 pounds of carbon.

AllerAir offers some of the most efficient and long-lasting air purifiers on the market with the most relevant filtration media and the most customizable options. For help in choosing the right air purifier, check out AllerAir's air quality sizing and model selection guides.

Contact AllerAir for more information.
 

Air pollution in kitchens higher than on busy city streets: Study

Your kitchen may be more polluted than a
city center, a new study shows.

We published a post on kitchen air pollution last week, about researchers testing different kitchen exhaust fans and their ability to remove indoor air pollutants from one of the most important rooms in the home.

But with this new study being released, we will continue to talk about kitchens: According to researchers at the University of Sheffield, the air inside kitchens can be three times as bad as in city centers and along busy roads.

Say what?

City centers and busy roads have long been touted as highly polluted areas due to high traffic and automobile exhaust fumes, smog, lack of green spaces as well as other chemical and particle pollution sources. And now kitchens are supposed to be three times worse?

The study examined the air quality inside and outside three residential buildings and showed that nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels in the kitchen of a city center apartment with a gas cooker were three times higher than the concentrations measured outside of the building.

Health effects of airtight homes

The researchers are warning that more airtight homes and certain actions inside can expose us to high levels of indoor air pollutants, “with potential impacts on our health.”

They also included pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particles (PM2.5) in their research.

Cooking with gas led to higher amounts of fine particle pollutants in the home, which can be breathed deep into the lungs where they may cause inflammation and other health problems.

There are currently not enough standards or guidelines about indoor air pollution levels, the researchers warn.

The study was funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC INTRAWISE Consortium).

Source: Click Green

Cleaner indoor air with air purifiers

For homes and kitchens:
AllerAir's AirMedic Series

More than 90 percent of our time is spent indoors, so it is important to make sure the air we breathe is free of potentially harmful contaminants.

AllerAir has designed portable and powerful air purifiers for the home and office that remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants, including VOCs, odors, gases, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold.

The air purifiers feature a highly efficient activated carbon and HEPA filtration system, plus optional UV germicidal filtration to provide cleaner and healthier air around the clock.

Control indoor air contaminants and odors in kitchens, bedroom and living areas and feel the difference cleaner air makes.

For more information, contact AllerAir.

Reducing indoor air pollution: Use a kitchen exhaust fan!

An over-the-range hood can be effective in removing
indoor air pollutants - if used regularly, experts say.

Cooking is a great habit that can help promote healthier eating habits, strengthen family bonds and create financial stability – but it can also produce high levels of indoor air pollution.

Cooking with high heat or gas burners on stove tops and in ovens can spread airborne chemicals and particles that may affect people’s health and well-being.

Experts often advocate the use of kitchen exhaust fans as one way to reduce indoor air pollution.

However, the exhaust systems vary in terms of price, noise, power consumption and effectiveness, and there is no standard to rate them.

In a recent study, researchers looked at the effectiveness of seven different over-the-range hood designs.

They found that no device excelled in all categories, as those fans that were efficient in removing pollutants tended to have high fan speeds that hurt efficiencies or were so loud that normal conversation became impossible.

In the end, buying a new hood may not be necessary, the researchers say: Using even moderately effective kitchen exhaust fans can make a positive difference in the air quality at home.

Another tip: Cooking on the back burners instead of the front burners allows for even greater efficiency.

The study was published in ACS’ journal Environmental Science & Technology.

Source: American Chemical Society

Air purifiers for better indoor air

Cooking odors can be quite irritating, but they are not the worst pollutants in indoor environments.

AllerAir's 5000 Exec:
Powerful room air purifier

Most homes and offices feature a variety of toxins in the air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold.

While better ventilation and source control will help, a portable and powerful air purifier with the right air filters will provide healthier and cleaner air – guaranteed.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office have been designed with the most efficient airflow configurations, the most effective air filters and the most versatile options in mind, to provide the best possible air cleaning solution for virtually any indoor air quality concern.

The air purifiers boast a deep-bed granular activated carbon filter, a trusted and proven filtration media for airborne chemicals, gases, odors, VOCs and fumes.

The carbon and HEPA filter combination also takes care of particulate matter, dust, pollen and dander, while optional UV germicidal filtration helps neutralize biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

Not sure what you need? Consult our air quality and model selection guides.

Contact AllerAir for more information as well as personalized recommendations, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Still spring cleaning? Put your health first

Many cleaning products contain harsh
chemicals and irritants, experts warn.

When it’s time to get rid of all that accumulated winter dirt and grime in the home, most people want to get it over quickly and take out the big guns of cleaning products.

But beware; many commercial cleaning products contain harsh chemicals and VOCs that can contribute to indoor air pollution and may affect your health and well-being.

The list of potentially harmful ingredients includes:

Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs)
NPEs are common chemicals found in many cleaning products such as stain removers, detergents, citrus cleaners and disinfectants. According to the EPA, the chemicals can pollute the environment and they have been detected in human breast milk, blood, and urine. Studies have linked exposure to reproductive and developmental effects in rodents.

Ammonia
A common ingredient in floor, bathroom, tile and glass cleaners, it’s a respiratory irritant that can produce poisonous gas when mixed with chlorine bleach.

Disinfectants
Active ingredients called disinfectants include chlorine bleach, alcohol, quaternary compounds, pine oil and ethyl alcohol, which can be found in many household cleaning products and “antibacterial” products. Many of these chemical compounds are classified as pesticides and health hazards.

Fragrance
A product’s fragrance can be made up of hundreds of different chemicals, but which ones are often a mystery or so-called trade secret. Fragrance found in cleaners, detergents and air fresheners can be irritating to people’s eyes and respiratory tract.

Naptha
A chemical found in furniture and floor polish as well as gas cleaners; overexposure can cause headaches, nausea and central nervous system symptoms.

Experts suggest going for more eco-friendly and greener alternatives whenever possible, but those who don’t want to spend the extra money can also make their own cleaners from non-toxic ingredients such as vinegar + water + biodegradable soap, baking soda, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide and some essential oils.

Suggestions and ideas are available at Consumer Reports GreenerChoices.org.

Source: Las Cruces Sun-News

Air purifiers remove harmful chemicals and pollutants

Cleaning products are not the only source of pollutants in the home – many airborne chemicals and VOCs come from building materials, furniture, electronic equipment, personal care products and other sources.

Making healthier choices like non-toxic cleaning products can make a difference in the air quality, but a portable air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA air filters will provide around-the-clock protection from common household pollutants.

AllerAir’s air purifiers feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter to remove chemicals, gases, odors and fumes, a HEPA filter for particles and dust and optional UV germicidal filtration to neutralize biological contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.

AllerAir offers portable air purifiers as well as whole home systems.

For more information and personalized recommendations, contact AllerAir.
 

Toxic laundry – the hidden dangers of a common household chore

Dryer sheets and other scented products
can contain hundreds of chemicals.

The chemicals contained in a wide range of laundry products can present hidden dangers, according to researchers.

Scented laundry detergents and fabric softeners can be the source of a toxic blend of chemicals that are unregulated and can contribute to a number of health problems.

Research by Dr. Joseph Mercola reveals that

1. Dryer vents emit more than 600 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which come from commonly used laundry products. Some of these VOCs are known to cause cancer.
     
2. We should be worrying about the long-term cumulative effects of these chemicals, which have not been studied and are largely unknown. However, experts suggest they may contribute to respiratory, neurological, endocrine, immune system and organ system health problems.
    
3. Workers reacting to fragrances at work are becoming much more common, so much so that it is being compared to secondhand smoke exposure.
    
4. Many people are unaware of the kinds of chemicals that products contain since companies are not required to list all chemical ingredients on labels. One fragrance can be made up of hundreds of chemicals.
    
5. Fabric softeners can release formaldehyde, a known irritant and carcinogen.

According to research done by Anne Steinmann, PhD, laundry products that were labeled “organic” and “natural” were more toxic than regular products.

Opting for “unscented” versions of popular laundry products may also be a mistake, since these often contain the original fragrance as well as a masking fragrance.

A better idea might be to hang laundry to dry or to use dryer balls or similar non-toxic alternatives.

There are greener and less toxic laundry products available - simply being aware of the dangers and asking the right questions will help in making the right choices.

Source: Digital Journal

Rely on a serious air purifier for healthier indoor air

Source control and ventilation can help reduce exposure to many common household chemicals, but a portable and powerful air purifier can quickly become one of the most appreciated small appliances in the household.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for homes and offices can remove a wide range of indoor air contaminants, including chemicals, gases, odors, VOCs, particles, dust and pathogens.

Activated carbon is the safest and most
trusted filter media for chemicals and odors.

They are made out of the safest materials and don't produce any harmful byproducts.

With a deep-bed activated carbon filter and HEPA as well as optional UV germicidal filtration, AllerAir air purifiers offer the right unit for specific concerns such as

• MCS
• Allergy and Asthma
• Odor and chemical control
• Tobacco smoke
• And more

Contact AllerAir for more information.
 

Soy-based eco-flooring the newest home décor trend

Non-toxic and hypoallergenic flooring choice can help improve indoor air quality

The right flooring and finishing
can mean cleaner, healthier air.

As more and more people become aware of the risks that environmental pollution and household toxins can mean to family members (especially children and seniors), the greater the popularity of “healthy home” choices.

The demand for low VOC paints, stains and materials is growing, as is the market for natural wood cabinets, furniture and flooring – since compressed wood furniture can release VOCs such as formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

One of the latest innovations in eco-flooring choices is a factory-finished floor using 100 percent pure soybean oil that will emit zero VOCs and is hypoallergenic. This particular type of flooring is offered by Mercier Wood Flooring and comes with a 35-year warranty, but many other companies are offering healthier flooring choices.

The soy-based flooring was deemed eco-friendly and healthy, and it picked up the “Children and Schools Certification” by the standards organization Greenguard.

The new product can be applied to all species, colors and finishes and make wood flooring even healthier.
A floor like that may be ideal for kids’ rooms, living rooms or playrooms, daycare settings and schools.

Other healthy flooring choices include natural cork, bamboo flooring and natural grass mats.

Filter out harmful VOCs and chemicals with air purifiers

The volatile organic compounds and chemicals in households, offices and children’s environments can come from a variety of sources, including other building materials, cleaning products, air freshening products, treated textiles and more.

Activated carbon can remove airborne
chemicals and VOCs.

With diligent source control and good ventilation, air quality can be improved, but a high-quality air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA will be even more efficient at removing those indoor air pollutants.

AllerAir’s general purpose air purifiers come in a variety of colors and sizes and can help clean the air around the clock with low energy consumption.

A complete air filtration system with deep-bed activated carbon, HEPA and optional UV is key to removing airborne chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold.

Contact AllerAir for more information.

Healthy Schools Day - An Important Reminder About Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can affect children and staff.

Do you remember your school days and how stuffy those classrooms often got?

Bad air is more than a nuisance - it can actually be harmful to human health, aggravate respiratory conditions and stunt a child's productivity and learning capability.

As many schools in the United States celebrate Healthy Schools Day today, it is important to remind ourselves about what a difference a healthy environment can make in a child’s life.

Children are among the most vulnerable groups when it comes to indoor air pollution and environmental toxins, and with them spending so much time in school, administrators, parents and communities need to do their part to protect the young learners.

The average child spends about 1,300 hours in a school building each year; teachers and other employees spend even longer periods.

Common indoor air pollutants

Unfortunately, many schools are old or in poor condition, and children may be exposed in varying degrees to common indoor air pollutants such as

• Mold
• Chemicals (VOCs)
• Particles and allergens
• Biological contaminants
• Asbestos
• Lead
• Outdoor air pollutants from industrial emissions, vehicle emissions etc.

Exposure to indoor air pollution has been linked to respiratory problems, aggravated conditions, increased absenteeism, lower productivity and learning ability and other health effects.

With their Healthy Schools program, the EPA is trying to help schools provide a healthier learning environment and reduce indoor air pollution as much as possible.

It starts with people getting on the same page and making a Healthy School a priority, getting informed, making a plan and implementing changes.

How to improve air quality in schools

Some of the easy and effective changes could include:

• Opening the windows regularly, or the transom over the door to encourage natural air flow
• Keeping classrooms tidy and free of clutter
• Banning pets and foods in class to avoid pests (and blocking pest entry points)
• Using low-odor and non-toxic supplies such as water-based, unscented markers
• Banning plug-in air fresheners and room deodorizers
• Reducing the use of scented personal care products (perfume, cologne, scented hair sanitizers, etc.)
• Minimizing the use of disinfectants and using certified green cleaning products – or simply hot water and soap
• Reporting water leaks (however tiny) right away to avoid mold growth

Source: Electrocorp, NHSD Classroom Tips

Worried about airborne chemicals, asthma and allergy triggers and more?

AllerAir's 5000 Series, 6000 Series
and AirMedic Series for homes
and classrooms.

Whether it's at home or at school, we need to be mindful of the quality of air we are breathing.

A general-purpose room air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants, including irritating chemicals and VOCs, odors, allergens, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold.

HEPA filters alone only take care of particles and dust, a complete air filtration system needs a deep-bed activated carbon filter to adsorb chemicals, odors and gases.

AllerAir's portable and powerful room air purifiers can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants with their carbon + HEPA filtration system and other features.

For more information and recommendations, contact AllerAir.

Healthy lifestyle? You’re still exposed to toxins

Even with the best intentions, our living space
may expose us to harmful toxins.

When it comes to our exposure to chemicals and toxins, we can make certain choices to be healthier – but even with the best intentions it is pretty much impossible to live a toxic-free life.

Great starting points are

• Eating organic foods
• Avoiding compressed wood furniture in the home that off-gas formaldehyde
• Opting for natural materials like stone, ceramic tile and granite instead of plastic laminates and vinyl
• Using natural cleaning agents like vinegar and baking soda instead of harsh store-bought cleaners
• Banning smoking and pesticides
• Curbing the use of perfumes and chemical-laden personal care products
• Picking eco-friendly and low-VOC paints and materials when renovating
• Drinking filtered water
• Etc.

But unless you have unlimited funds and a never-ending thirst for more information and the willingness to make changes in your life, chances are you will still be exposed to some chemicals and volatile organic compounds.

Only a small number of people can build their own home according to their non-toxic requirements, the majority lives in homes that were built with materials that can off-gas VOCs and chemicals, including oil and latex paints, varnishes, caulking and so on.

Your electronic equipment and printers with toners and ink cartridges may be culprits, and certain products in the garage or shed: bike chain cleaner, car maintenance products, …

Even if you can’t smell anything inside the home, a blood, urine and/or hair test will likely reveal some surprises in toxin levels.

Source: NOW

So, what’s a toxin-conscious human being to do?

Keep using the most natural and green products and materials whenever you can, make sure the home is well ventilated, humidity levels under control and the air is kept clean no matter what.

Air purifiers with carbon and HEPA
can remove chemicals and particles.

A portable and powerful air purifier from AllerAir can help clean the air 24/7, by drawing it through the most effective air filters on the market: A deep-bed activated carbon filter and a medical-grade HEPA filter as well as optional UV germicidal filtration.

AllerAir’s popular base model 5000 Exec and the AirMedic Series can rid the air of chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, particles, dust, mold, viruses and bacteria.

Contact AllerAir for more information and a personalized recommendation.
  

Renovating? Use low-VOC paint for better indoor air quality

Low-VOC paint helps reduce indoor
air pollution and chemical concerns.

When it comes to home renovations and updates, we all like to spend as little as possible but still get great results.

And just finding that perfect shade of paint for the room can be exhausting in itself, so it’s no wonder many people don’t spend much time thinking about the kind of paint they will be putting on their walls.

But the fresh paint smell many people simply take for granted can be quite a health hazard, especially for people with asthma and allergies as well as other sensitivities.

The smell comes from high levels of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that are emitted from the liquid and drying paint (and even a long time afterwards, though less noticeable).

Thankfully, there is a much bigger selection of low-VOC as well as zero-VOC paints available, which can make a great difference in the air quality of a newly renovated home.

The EPA regulates the amount of VOCs that are allowed in latex paints to 250 grams per liter. Low VOC paints are not regulated but generally carry a rating of 50 grams per liter or less.

Adding color pigment to paints can increase the VOC count since many tints contain the volatile organic compounds.

A growing public awareness about the dangers of airborne chemicals and VOCs and a strong green movement have brought down the cost of low- and zero-VOC paints, while their quality has improved.

Now the healthier paints are just as durable, just as washable and the cost is comparable to traditional paints as well.

Source: Indy Star

Improve indoor air quality all the time with high quality air purifiers

During and after renovations it is especially important to keep indoor air quality in mind, but even in between projects, residents can be exposed to a wide range of indoor air contaminants coming from household products and furnishings, building materials, personal care products and many more items in the home.

AllerAir's room air purifiers can remove VOCs,
odors, allergens, particles, mold and more.

Running an energy-efficient, portable air purifier with the right air filters will help improve indoor air quality and reduce exposure to potentially harmful contaminants.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office contain deep-bed activated carbon filters for the removal of airborne chemicals, VOCs, gases, odors and fumes, HEPA filters for particles, dust and allergens and optional UV lamps for the neutralization of biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

For more information and options, please contact AllerAir today.
  

Home renovations a good time for greener choices

Greener remodeling choices can help the
environment and a home's indoor air quality.

As soon as the days are getting longer and people get into spring and summer mode, homeowners are looking for ways to update and fix their homes.

Sustainable remodeling is a great way to save money and resources because upgrading is much more environmentally friendly than building new.

The right sustainable remodeling choices can improve a home’s energy efficiency, resource conservation and the indoor air quality.

An energy audit can help homeowners identify where the house is leaking too much air.

Adding insulation, sealing drafts, installing new windows and upgrading old appliances may all help reducing a home’s energy bills.

Improve indoor air quality when remodeling

Indoor air pollution has been linked to a wide range of health effects, including chronic respiratory problems as well as short-term and long-term effects.

A lot of poor indoor air quality comes from chemicals and other toxic compounds:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Combustion fumes
• Formaldehyde
• Asbestos
• Lead
• Ozone
• Particulate matter
• Pesticides
• Radon
• Pollen and other allergens

Synthetic carpeting, harsh chemical cleaning products and building and renovation materials that are high in VOCs and other synthetic chemicals are often to blame.

Better flooring choices are natural-fiber carpets, hardwoods, natural linoleum, cork, ceramic tile, marble and stone.

Building and remodeling materials like paint, sealer, stain, caulk, grout, adhesive and paint thinners often come in low-VOC versions, which will help reduce indoor air pollution.

Other green options during remodeling include water conservation measures like low-flow plumbing fixtures, high-efficiency water heaters, toilets and dishwashers as well as natural and non-toxic materials from sustainable or recycled sources.

Source: Coloradoan

Improve your indoor air with powerful air purifiers

Even with the best intentions and a variety of choices, many homeowners will complain of chemical pollutants and too much dust or other toxins.

AllerAir's air purifiers for the home and office:
5000 Series, 6000 Series, AirMedic Series,
AirMedic+ Series and AirTube Series

Lingering odors and off-gassing materials can delay the satisfaction of using a remodeled space without concerns.

Running a powerful air purifier with the right air filters on the lowest setting on a continuous basis will help remove harmful odors and toxins and keep the air clean and healthier.

AllerAir offers air purifiers with activated carbon and HEPA filters that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants, including chemicals, gases, odors, VOCs, particles, dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses and molds.

The units are energy efficient and last a long time between filter changes.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.