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.
 
Show your support for greener and healthier living by following this blog.

No tan is a good tan

Sun-bathing is actually better for you
than tanning substitutes

First we were told that sun-bathing was bad for our skin, so people starting using tanning salons. Then we were told that tanning beds caused more harmful UV rays than did the sun at high noon, so people turned to tanning lotions.

Now studies tell us to stop that too.

Though there is no evidence that these self-tanning products lead to melanoma, research has shown  that the chemicals absorbed by the skin and inhaled from the spray and fumes can in fact have long-term effects.

Tanning lotions are composed of several types of chemicals including the carcinogen formaldehyde, nitrosamines (also considered cancer-causing) and tartrazine (a synthetic yellow dye that is known to cause skin irritations).

Side effects may include reduced fertility, diabetes, cancer and obesity. Pregnant women also expose their children to these chemicals, which can result in birth defects.

Source: The MedGuru

Sunbathing is the better option

If you’re afraid you’re turning pasty and the prospect of tanning is just too good to pass up, your best bet is to get some real sun. Though extended exposure will still have negative consequences, it is still the safer option.

 How to protect your home from chemical toxins

Though it would be easy to just go home and throw out your tanning lotions, there are many other cosmetics and cleaning products that include some of the ingredients listed above. Some are more difficult to do without than others. 

Take the time to go through the products you use most often, and find greener options to replace them with. It is also a good idea to get an air purifier to clean your home when some of these products are used.

AllerAir's numerical series of air purifiers
(4000, 5000, 6000)

Though many chemicals are diffused outdoors, they tend to hang around indoors. An activated carbon filtered air purifier will adsorb the chemicals, rending your home safer and healthier.

Do you use self-tanning lotions? Will you continue to do so now that you know the side-effects? Tell us what you think!

Show your support for greener and healthier living by becoming a follower of this blog.

For more information on AllerAir’s air purifiers for odor and chemical control, call us toll free at 1-888-852-8247.

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.

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.
 

Is a clean home possible without chemicals?

Store-bought cleaners can contain
harmful chemicals and fumes.

The cleaning product aisles in supermarkets and other stores can be quite overwhelming with their abundance of specialty cleaners and chemical-laden products.

However, with many consumers becoming more health-conscious and weary of potentially harmful chemicals in such products, some trusted and non-toxic staples have been given a new life, including baking soda, vinegar, Castile soap and more. Others swear by the water and microfiber cloth cleaning method.

Going green when cleaning makes sense when it comes to personal health and the environment, but many people still question how effective these non-toxic cleaning products are.

Reducing germs – the green way

According to food safety specialists and other experts, home-made cleaners with vinegar and hydrogen peroxide can be effective in removing dirt and particles as well as reducing germs. Baking soda is a good scrubbing agent but not an effective sanitizer.

But apart from surfaces where food preparation takes place, sanitation is not always necessary, experts say.

Often, hot water and soap is enough, as is regular cleaning and changing kitchen rags twice weekly.

Households with senior residents, young children or pets may want to sanitize more often.

Concerns about chemicals

A survey released by The Shelton Group earlier this year found that 24 percent of Americans buy or make all-natural cleaning products and an even larger number (65 percent) of Americans say that they are concerned about chemicals in products.

Common household cleaners can contain chemicals such as butyl cellosolve (can irritate skin and eyes and damage the liver and kidneys), crystalline silica (an eye, skin and lung irritant), phosphates (suffocate aquatic plants and animals) and chlorine (fumes are irritating to eye, throat and respiratory tract).

Green does not always mean non-toxic; reading labels is still one of the most important habits for customers.

Source: Detroit Lakes Online

Reduce chemicals everywhere

Activated carbon is the safest and most effective
way to remove airborne chemicals, gases and odors.

Chemicals are not only found in cleaning products and similar household staples – they can also hide in furniture, air fresheners, personal care products, building materials and many other sources.

Often, these chemicals become airborne and contribute to poor indoor air quality and health concerns.

Source control (choosing more natural and healthier products), good ventilation and air filtration can help reduce the risks associated with poor indoor air quality.

AllerAir has developed portable and highly efficient room air purifiers with activated carbon and HEPA filters that can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants.

With general purpose air purifiers as well as units made for specific concerns such as allergy and asthma, mold, MCS, tobacco smoke and more, it’s easy to find the right air purifier for each problem.

Contact AllerAir for more information.
  

A greener and healthier way to do spring cleaning

Spring cleaning does not have to involve
harsh chemicals and cleaning products.

We seem to have survived this winter – soon, windows can be opened longer, snow boots can go back into storage and we’ll have to start worrying about mosquitoes and bugs.

For many people, this time of year means a thorough cleaning of the home is in order to start fresh into the spring and summer season.

But with indoor air pollution a major public health concern and regular cleaning products adding harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and other chemicals to the indoor air, maybe it’s time to change some habits to make spring cleaning a greener and healthier affair.

According to the EPA, indoor air can be 10 times as polluted as outdoor air, and many of those pollutants come from buildings materials, paints, household products such as hairspray, rugs, oven cleaners, scented candles or air fresheners and other products.

Those VOCs and other pollutants can cause health symptoms such as respiratory irritation, nausea, headaches and more, depending on a person’s sensitivity and exposure.

Fortunately, many greener and alternative cleaning agents are available.

Non-toxic cleaning agents from the pantry include:

• Vinegar
• Hot water and soap
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil

If people do not feel like making their own cleaning products, they can stock up on eco-friendly alternatives from the shelves (but watch out, a recent study showed that even supposedly greener products often contain potentially harmful chemicals that weren’t listed on the ingredients label).

Try to stay away from fragrances and scented products as much as possible – those scents are usually derived from synthetic chemicals and VOCs that add to indoor air pollution.

Source: Medill Reports

Cleaner indoor air with carbon air purifiers

As much as we try to keep our indoor air clean, some sources of exposure are difficult to control or avoid, including building materials, electronic equipment, outdoor air pollution and more.

That is when an air purifier from AllerAir will prove to be an invaluable tool to keep the air cleaner and healthier.

AllerAir air purifiers

AllerAir’s air purifiers feature a proven multistage filtration system with activated carbon and HEPA filters that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants.

Not only does AllerAir offer the most powerful general purpose air purifiers, the company also specializes in indoor air concerns such as smoke, mold, allergy and asthma, MCS and more.

For more information, contact AllerAir.
 

Cleaning experts tout natural alternatives

Cleaning products found on store shelves often
contain harmful chemicals and toxins.

It’s March, and that means spring cleaning is just around the corner!

But if your arsenal of cleaning products includes a variety of store-bought products, you could be putting your health at risk.

Many household cleaners on store shelves today contain toxic ingredients and volatile organic compounds that have been linked to health problems in humans.

According to the EPA, chemicals in household cleaners are three times more likely to cause cancer than air pollution. Most people spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors and cleaning is a regular part of household duties.

Thankfully, there are many available alternatives, which are not only safer but also often much less expensive.

However, beware of traditional products jumping onto the green bandwagon and making claims that are suspect or downright false.

Third-party certifications or a look at the manufacturers; data sheets will provide some reliable answers – or homeowners can make their own cleaning solutions.

Homemade cleaners do not have preservatives, so it’s better to make small batches and use them up quickly.

Use sponges or washable rags when cleaning – it’s much more environmentally friendly than paper towels and single-use cleaning pads.

Here are some cleaning agents that are non-toxic, effective and easily available:

• Baking soda: Fights odors and can be used as a scrubbing paste
• Vinegar: Natural cleaner and disinfectant; the smell disappears after a few minutes
• Castile soap: Foaming cleaner
• Olive oil: Great for polishing wood furniture and picking up dust
• Lemon juice: Grease fighter, disinfectant, fresh smell

Source: The Journal Sentinel

Reduce airborne chemicals with air purifiers

Toxic cleaning products are not the only sources of potentially harmful chemicals in the home.

Other household items can
contribute to indoor air pollution.

Common building materials, paints, furniture, air fresheners, dry-cleaned clothes and other products can emit chemicals and volatile organic compounds.

A high-quality air purifier with activated carbon and other filters can help keep the air clean and healthy. Activated carbon is the safest and most effective filtration media for the removal of airborne chemicals and VOCs, odors and fumes.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office contain not only the largest activated carbon filters but also HEPA filters, pre-filters and optional UV germicidal filtration to trap and neutralize particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold as well.

Contact AllerAir for more information and more options.
  

Dizzy from cleaning? Blame the chemicals (VIDEO)

Cleaning the home is a necessary evil - but why do some products make people feel dizzy and nauseated?

Some scented cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that have been linked to these health effects, according to this news report.



  
While only a small percentage of the population may be affected by the chemicals, some experts say it is better to go for more natural products and read the labels - if you can't pronounce the ingredients, chances are they are bad for you.

Want to know more about indoor air pollution and complete air purification solutions? AllerAir offers portable and powerful air purifiers for the home and office that remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants with a combination of activated carbon, HEPA and other filters. Contact AllerAir for more information.

Is vinegar a good cleaning alternative in the home?

Homeowners can make their own
cleaners with vinegar, hot water
and  soap, expert says.

With experts sounding the alarm over harsh chemicals and toxins in commercial cleaning products, many people are turning to natural alternatives such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice.

But do these products clean as well as their synthetic rivals?

According to Professor Peter Collignon, infectious disease physician at the Australian National University's Medical School, who was interviewed for a report by ABC, vinegar is a viable alternative to commercial cleaning products.

It may not be as effective as the commercial products, but vinegar is a useful disinfectant that can be used in every household, he says.

What is vinegar?

Vinegar is about 5% acetic acid, the compound that kills bacteria and viruses.

Researchers found that vinegar can kill off the flu virus, but that it won’t touch some types of salmonella that could hide on chopping boards, for example.

Vinegar is a good alternative and non-toxic cleaning agent because it forces people to keep it simple, Collignon says.

The best way for people to clean their homes is with hot soapy water and some elbow grease to get rid of organic material.

Commercial cleaning products might make it easier, but it might also be overdoing it and over-using chemicals, he says.

Source: ABC

Clean the air with portable air purifiers

Just as over-using chemicals in the home is not a good idea, neither is breathing in too many volatile organic compounds in the home.

Along with source control (using more natural products) and ventilation (opening the windows regularly), a complete air purification system with activated carbon, HEPA and UV can help keep the air clean.

AllerAir offers air purifiers for the home and office with the most relevant filtration media at the best price. The deep-bed activated carbon filters remove a wide range of chemicals, gases, odors and VOCs.

The HEPA filter traps up to 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. The UV germicidal filtration helps neutralize biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
  

Boost your well-being by detoxing your life

All the news about air pollution, toxic chemicals and poor indoor air quality is enough to make you hide under your covers for the rest of the winter season (wouldn’t that be nice?).

Household cleaners can pollute indoor air with
harsh chemicals - it's better to opt for natural products.

But homeowners and parents don’t need to despair – there are simple and easy ways to live a greener, healthier, less toxic life that can be implemented right away:

Ditch toxic household cleaners
Many commercially sold household cleaning products are made with harsh chemicals that can add to indoor air pollution and affect people and pets in the home. Experts recommend using green cleaners instead, to read the labels, or to use natural cleaning agents such as vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda.

Avoid formaldehyde and other VOCs
Volatile organic compounds can be emitted by a wide range of building materials, furniture, wrinkle-free bedding, dry-cleaned clothes and personal care products. Sensitive people can experience health symptoms after exposure, and many VOCs (including formaldehyde, benzene and toluene) have been linked to cancer and respiratory ailments. It’s better to go with natural fibers, look for formaldehyde-free furnishings, low-VOC paints etc. A little research before a purchase can go a long way for a less toxic household.

Opt for organic foods and products
Check out the organic foods section at the supermarket, go to the local farmer’s market or visit the specialized health food stores. The more demand there is, the better the prices will be. If you can’t afford to go all-organic all the time, become familiar with the foods that are most chemical-laden and buy those organic. Check out the Dirty Dozen from the Environmental Working Group.

Pass on plastics
If you can, ditch the plastic food containers and cans and use fresh foods stored in glass. Many plastic containers (especially those marked No. 7) contain bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that has been linked to developmental problems, cancers, heart disease and infertility. It is also used in food packaging and can linings.

Some other easy ways to improve indoor air quality at home:

• Ban smoking indoors
• Avoid the use of pesticides in or around the house
• Make sure the house is well ventilated
• Use a portable room air purifier with carbon and HEPA

Source: Spokesman-Review

AllerAir's 5000 Exec:
Powerful air purifier

The best air purifiers for the home and office
AllerAir offers powerful air purifiers with the most activated carbon and the deepest carbon beds at the best price, guaranteed. Activated carbon filters can remove a wide range of airborne chemicals, gases, VOCs, fumes and odors, while HEPA traps particles and dust. For complete air filtration systems for the home and office as well as specialized air purification units (such as allergy and asthma, smoke, mold, multiple chemical sensitivity, and more), visit our website or contact us directly: 888-852-8247.

Keep your indoor air clean this winter

Keep an eye on the state of your home for best IAQ.

Poor indoor air quality can cause a range of physical and psychological symptoms – it has been linked to headaches, itchy eyes, nose and throat, respiratory issues and disease, heart disease and even cancer, to name a few complications.

But there are many simple things homeowners can do to avoid a heavy buildup of indoor air pollutants, which can be two to five times worse than outdoor air pollution, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Keep your floors clean
Take off your shoes in the garage or right after entering the home, but first wipe them on mats outside. If you can, remove carpets from the home (they are difficult to keep clean) and instead rely on hardwood or ceramic floors, which can be cleaned easily. Use natural cleaning products, and wet mop regularly.

Keep dust on furniture and windows to a minimum
When cleaning a home, these areas are often forgotten, but they harbor dust and particles just as much as other surfaces. Wipe leather or vinyl furniture as well as blinds regularly and vacuum upholstered furniture – or better yet, use slip covers and wash them regularly along with curtains.

Clean the air with air purifiers
Indoor air pollution can arise from many factors, including dust and tiny particles, chemicals and gaseous pollutants (odors), mold, bacteria and viruses and more. A good air purifier should be able to tackle these main categories of pollutants, but they need different filters for that. Most department store air purifiers rely heavily on HEPA filters to remove dust and particles, allergens and other small particles. Insist on an air purifier with HEPA, PLUS a deep bed of activated carbon for the removal of gaseous pollutants and odors and possibly UV germicidal filtration, which can neutralize contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

Use the best technology
This is a no-brainer. For vacuuming, use a unit with a HEPA filter (and other filters, if possible, my new one also has thin activated carbon filter, which won’t do much but can’t hurt when vacuuming). For air cleaning, invest in a high-quality, personalized air purifier that will actually help reduce indoor air pollution, not add dangerous toxins.

Check your HVAC system
The existing heating and ventilation system is an important tool in maintaining healthy indoor air. Regular check-ups, filter changes and other measures may be in order to make sure it functions properly.

Air out the home (even for short periods)
In many parts of the world, it gets really cold in winter, causing people to seal up their homes and keep all the air inside. While airtight homes do conserve energy, indoor air pollutants can also build up with no way to escape. Short bursts of fresh air by opening windows or doors can help move the air around and ventilate the home.

AllerAir Industries is committed to raise awareness about indoor air pollutants and helping people achieve a cleaner, healthier home with customized, multistage air purifiers that feature activated carbon + HEPA + optional UV air filters. Contact AllerAir for more information.

Non-toxic cleaning: How vinegar works

Cleaning with vinegar is a great way to reduce chemical exposure at home

Vinegar is an effective cleaning agent.

Many of our previous blog posts decry the use of harsh chemicals in common household cleaning products, which can add to poor indoor air quality in the home.

One of the things we always say is to replace chemical cleaning products with natural cleaning agents such as vinegar. But how does vinegar actually work?

In a Networx article “The Science of Vinegar” Julian Taub explains what makes vinegar so effective for everyday cleaning chores.

What is vinegar?

Vinegar usually consists of water with 4-5% of a chemical called acetic acid. Acetic Acid is a weak acid (although the concentrated form can be a skin irritant); it is antibacterial and antifungal, meaning it can neutralize bacteria and fungi and thus remove odors.

When it is dissolved in water, acetic acid breaks apart into two components, the hydrogen and the remainder of the molecule, called the acetate.

The hydrogen will try to bond to any molecule that it encounters, that is why they are great at cleaning stains made from alkali substances, like soap, urine, and limestone.

Unlike harsh chemicals, vinegar maintains a balance within water of about 1% separated acetic acid, making it safe to use on cleaning surfaces, but slightly less effective in fighting grease or carbon buildup on cooking utensils.

Cleaning with natural ingredients is
better for your health and well-being.

Cleaning with vinegar

You can use vinegar on most cleaning surfaces, especially in the bathroom and kitchen and the floors, but it shouldn’t be used everywhere (see below).

Most people will dilute vinegar with water to create an effective cleaning agent, and you could also add some fresh lemon juice. Don’t worry about the vinegar smell; it disappears once the vinegar evaporates.

Do not mix the vinegar with alkali-cleaning products such as soap, lye and bleach because they will both become ineffective and/or create poisonous fumes (with bleach).

However, the neutralization effect can be used effectively for unclogging drains. Mixing vinegar and baking soda will create a “volcano effect” – the reaction between the two creating water and carbon dioxide will increase the pressure in the drain pipe and dislodge some of the clogging material.

The author warns against using vinegar on clean upholstery, serious drain clogs or ovens. It should also not be used on metals, including iron, stainless steel, bronze or copper.

Want to know more about indoor air quality, airborne chemicals and air treatment solutions? Contact us at 1-888-852-8247 and follow us on Twitter.

Toxic household products you can toss

Household cleaners may contain
toxic chemicals.

If you’re at all worried about the indoor air quality in your home, ditching chemical-laden household cleaning products could be one of your first steps to a cleaner, healthier indoor environment.

Even if you decide you need or want to keep some of the products listed below, make sure you store them safely, ideally far from those areas and rooms where family members spend most of their time.

Bleach bust

Almost half of all calls to poison control centers involve exposure to chlorine bleach in all its commonly used forms. Chemical bleach is often used to discolor, whiten or disinfect, but chlorine is a respiratory irritant that can attack mucous membranes and burn the skin. Use sparingly according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. A safer alternative may be oxygen bleach, which includes hydrogen peroxide.

Ditch the disinfectants

Antibacterial products have become so popular that experts are starting to worry about the public health effects. Overuse of disinfecting products can compromise the immune system and actually help the growth of drug-resistant bacteria. Use natural soap instead.

Down the drain

Drain cleaners are very toxic since they are designed to eat through the clogs in pipes. Try pouring a kettle full of boiling water down the drain first – this usually takes care of grease clogs.

Toxic toilet bowl

The fumes from toilet bowl cleaners can contain bleach, phosphates and petroleum-based substances. A safer option would be an enzyme-based cleaner.

Of tubs and tiles

Many bathroom cleaners for tubs and tiles contain the same toxins as the toilet bowl cleaners. Experts suggest using oxygen bleach, white vinegar and lemon juice or an enzyme-based cleaner instead.

Axe the air fresheners

Scented candles and products
contribute to poor IAQ.

Rather than freshening the air, the sprays, plug-ins and candles introduce a host of potentially harmful chemicals into the ambient air. Try7 natural soy or besswax candles, essential oils or (we have to say it) a portable air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA, which actually removes odor-causihng indoor air pollutants.

Loaded laundry detergents

Most commercial laundry detergents contain many chemicals, fragrances and VOCs that have not been tested for safety in independent researchers. Opt for the most natural, phosphate-free, biodegradable laundry detergent you can find. They do work.

Chemical floor cleaners

Experts recommend a citrus-based floor cleaner, which won’t leave toxic residues on floors that may expose family members and pets to the chemicals.

Dish-washing dilemma

Have you ever taken the time to read what is in the powders, liquids or tabs that you use in the automatic dishwasher? It’s often bleach, petroleum derivatives, phosphates, fragrances, and other toxins. Try to find a more natural alternative without the chemical additions.

Gleaming glass cleaner

Warm water and vinegar are a great choice when it comes to glass cleaning, instead of toxic ammonia or other household cleaners. More natural, plant-based cleaners will also get the job done without adding harmful byproducts.

In any area of the house that needs cleaning, try to learn as much as possible about the products that you’re using and what safe alternatives may be available.

Source: GoLocalProv.com

Remove airborne toxins with portable air purifiers

Activated carbon removes odors,
chemicals, VOCs, gases and fumes.

AllerAir has designed an extensive product line of highly efficient air purifiers for the home and office. 

Equipped with a powerful filtration system containing activated carbon and HEPA, plus UV germicidal filtration (optional), the air purifiers remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants, including chemicals, gases, odor, particles, dust, allergens, smoke toxins, VOCs, bacteria, viruses and molds.

Check out the 5000 Exec and the AirMedic Exec, two of our most popular models.

Contact AllerAir for more information and a personalized recommendation based on your IAQ concern.

Health Canada warns of hidden chemicals in certain cleaning products

Some cleaning products
contain harmful chemicals.

Health Canada says some consumer chemical products sold under the brand of Orange TKO Industries are missing mandatory labeling and child-resistant closures.

It says the products contain a level of D-limonene that can be hazardous, especially to kids, if aspiration occurs.

Aspiration happens when the product is coughed up or vomited after being ingested. Small particles of the product can then travel into the lungs and this could lead to lung injury, chemical pneumonia or death.

D-limonene is extracted from citrus fruit and is often used to provide a citrus smell to cleaners and other household chemical products.

The affected products are Super Concentrated Cleaner, Super Concentrated Industrial Cleaner and Orange Pet Power TKO Cleaner.

Health Canada says consumers should stop using the products and dispose of them according to municipal hazardous waste guidelines.

The federal agency has asked Orange TKO Industries to voluntarily recall its products that don't comply with Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations.

The regulations establish classification criteria, labelling and packaging requirements for chemical products, including the display of hazard symbols, warnings, instructions and first-aid treatments, in both official languages.

Certain products also require child-resistant packaging.

Source: The Spec (The Canadian Press)

Reduce airborne chemicals in your ambient air

Along with using natural cleaning products and good ventilation in your home, use a portable air purifier from AllerAir to remove a wide range of chemicals and VOCs that may be released by construction materials, personal care products and furnishings. (See also: Great reasons why you need an air purifier)

AllerAir prides itself in making the deepest beds of activated carbon, which effectively remove chemicals, gases and odors by adsorbing them, and the multistage filtration system with HEPA and pre-filters will also take care of particles and allergens.

For more information and options on air purifiers for the home and office, contact AllerAir today.
  

Spring Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers A Real Must: Dust Mites, Pet Dander & Household Mold Beware!

Like clockwork, every year, my husband turns into a real grump. He sniffles, he sneezes and he glares at me for a few key reasons: I keep a huge flower garden (in the front yard and back yard), I have two cats (one of which has extremely long hair, and lots of it) and perhaps most importantly, because I don’t suffer from allergies.

And so the yearly spring-cleaning routine begins. Our target is to get the major allergy culprits like dust mites, pet dander and household mold, while giving any rugs, drapes and upholstery a deep cleaning.

Another allergy trigger that people often overlook is the actual cleaning product that they’re using in the spring-cleaning. Chemical household cleaners can contribute to headaches and allergies, as well as being especially toxic to anybody with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) or someone with even minor reactions to chemicals.

We don’t promote our 100% all-natural cleaning products very often, simply because our main focus is on our air purifiers, but I’m going to slip a worthwhile plug here, because I have to say, these products are really superb. As someone who always thought that you couldn’t get the same level of clean with a green cleaning product, I have officially changed my mind.

And since many allergy sufferers are actually allergic to mold, AllerAir’s Mold Away is a great choice because it contains no fragrances, is 100% all natural and uses the power of billions of natural enzymes to clean away dirt, germs and mold.

With more than 20 percent of Americans suffering from allergies, and symptoms ranging from itchy, watery eyes, persistent cough, sneezing and runny nose, the demand for relief is now reaching unprecedented numbers. While there is no real cure for allergies, it is possible to relieve symptoms by reducing or eliminating exposure to allergens.

I think it’s safe to say, that most people are aware of pollen, dust, pet dander and other airborne particles as major contributors to allergies. But airborne chemicals and mold spores can also contribute to allergy symptoms, albeit to a smaller percentage of people.

Since some people are allergic to particles, others to chemicals and still others to mold particles, our air purification recommendation includes a three-step approach.

1. Medical-HEPA filtration for particles
2. Deep-bed carbon filter for chemicals
3. UV light for mold

Allergy Air Purification System Recommendations

5000 Exec with UV Option



6000 Exec with UV Option



AirMedic+



Call us at 888.852.8247 to ask us about our 100% all-natural cleaning products—great for moldy bathrooms and kitchens, and for allergy sufferers too! For more information on our full line of air purifiers, ideal for removing airborne chemicals, particles and mold spores, please visit www.allerair.com.

Airborne Chemicals to Blame for Travolta Death?

It’s always a shame when it takes a tragedy to shed light on an otherwise much-ignored topic. Shortly into the New Year, on Friday January 2, 16-year old Jett Travolta, son of acclaimed actor John Travolta, was found dead at his family’s vacation home in the Bahamas.

The cause of the young boy’s death will not be known until the results of the autopsy can be analyzed and released to the public. It is known that Jett had a seizure, and hit his head on a bathtub when he collapsed.

The family, however, has long upheld that Jett suffered from Kawasaki disease, a condition that is largely misunderstood, and under-researched. It is also difficult to diagnose since there are no known tests that can confirm or deny its presence.

According to a Children's Hospital Boston / Harvard Medical school information page on the disease, “Some studies have found associations between the occurrence of Kawasaki disease and recent exposure to carpet cleaning or residence near a body of stagnant water; however, cause and effect have not been established.”

Kelly Preston, John’s wife and Jett’s mother, had worked tirelessly to purify her home of all airborne chemicals, such as those found in carpet cleaners.

I imagine over the next few days and weeks, many will argue over the legitimacy of Kawasaki disease. There will be, I suspect, the same who argue that chemical sensitivities, like those that plague people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) are merely... figments of their imagination. Exaggerations. Lies.

Not only do we not agree with this, but we’ve also based much of what we stand for at AllerAir on the sole purpose of raising awareness about the dangers associated with poor indoor air quality (IAQ), and developing air purifiers that offer alternatives to breathing dangerous airborne chemicals and gases.

For more information on harmful airborne toxins and chemicals, visit www.allerair.com. To speak to one of our Indoor Air Quality Experts, call 1.888.852.8247.