Many experts and nutritionists around the world say that we should eat organic food, plenty of fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, sleep at least 8 hours a day, avoid processed and junk food, avoid chocolate and other sugary stuff, cleanse our organism from all harmful toxins, etc.
But, did you know that creating a healthy home environment is also part of the detoxification/clean living process? Of course and after learning about the health hazards of dryer sheets and toxic cleaning products you may have already eliminated these products from your home! But, what about your bedroom? This is very important, because we spend one-third of our lives sleeping. Often times this is the room that is neglected. Ladies and gentlemen, today is your lucky day, because in this article we’re going to show you how to make your bedroom cancer-free!
The experts also say that creating a clean (non-toxic) bedroom can be a financial challenge, so starting small is the easiest solution. And, now you probably ask yourself – why? Well, that’s easy to answer – because every change you can make will have a positive impact on your health. How you begin is a personal decision based on your budget and health issues. Some people begin with replacing their mattress, others an air cleaner or bedding.
- Replace Your Pillows and Pillow Cases with Organic Materials
First of all, you should replace your pillows and pillow cases with organic materials! The real and ugly truth is that many people make the mistake of assuming that cotton is a safer choice than synthetics, but the fact is that cotton uses 25% of the world’s insecticides and over 14% of its pesticides. As you can afford it, replace your bedding with organic materials.
- Replace or Remove All Artificial Fabrics from Your Bedding, Bedroom, and Closet
This is also very important for you to know – synthetic materials such as acrylic, nylon, and polyester are made from thermoplastics. These fabrics out gas plastic molecules whenever they are heated. If you wear wrinkle free clothes you’re breathing in plastic and formaldehyde. Remember that you also absorb these chemicals directly through your skin.
- Replace or Remove Artificial Clothes in Your Closet
As we said, unfortunately, the base for most synthetic fabrics is a liquid made from coal, oil, or natural gas. The liquid is forced through the fine holes of a nozzle, called a spinneret. As the liquid emerges from the holes, it is cooled so that it solidifies to form tiny threads. These threads are woven together to make fabric. Well, ladies and gentlemen, this means one thing – you should opt for clothing made of natural or organic materials.
- Remove Faux/Fabric Furniture
Here’s what you need to know – well, if you have any furniture in your bedroom, such as a chair that is artificial leather, it shouldn’t be in your bedroom or any room in your house for that matter. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is often used in synthetic leather. PVC is widely regarded as the most dangerous of all plastics. Throw pillows and seating cushions that are stain and water resistant have been sprayed with chemicals that are toxic.
- Remove Particle Board and MDF
If you have any furniture that is made of particle board, MDF or melamine, it shouldn’t be in your bedroom. The chemical that causes the most concern is formaldehyde, which can aggravate asthma and other lung conditions, irritate mucous membranes and cause contact dermatitis. Like MDF, particle board contains formaldehyde, a known carcinogen that has been directly linked to nasopharyngeal carcinoma (throat cancer) in people. The chemical can also cause headaches, allergies, nausea and a burning sensation in the throat.
- Remove Accent/Throw Rugs
The experts say that wood or tile floors are easiest to clean and better options for allergy sufferers. While small accent or area rugs may look nice in your bedroom, they hold onto dirt, dust mites, and other allergens. If you can, omit rugs and carpet. Almost all polyester is manufactured with antimony, a carcinogen that is toxic to the heart, lungs, liver, and skin.
- Use No-VOC Paint
This is also very important for you to know – if you decide to paint a room use No-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint. VOCs are unstable, carbon-containing compounds that easily vaporize into the air. When they enter the air, they react with other elements to produce ozone, which causes air pollution and a host of health issues including breathing problems, headache, burning, watery eyes and nausea.
- Shoe Free Zone
Yes, consider making your home a shoe free zone. Well, this means that you should have indoor and outdoor shoes to avoid tracking in pollen, dirt and chemicals from outdoors in. You can also purchase a shoe or boot tray to keep by your door. When you come in from outdoors simply place your shoes in the tray to minimize dirt, pollen, dust and chemicals from being tracked into your house.
- Minimize Electrical Devices
Minimize electrical devices, which means that if you have a computer, TV or other electronic devices in your bedroom, you may consider moving them into another room. Electronic devices can disturb a peaceful night of sleep by disrupting sleep patterns.
- Replace or Cover Your Mattress
To be honest with you, I really think that this is the most difficult step, because it is cost prohibitive for many people. The reality is that conventional mattresses are sprayed with flame retardant and stain resistant chemicals. Many mattresses are made of foam that can outgas for years. There are many sources for organic mattresses at local stores and online.
- Buy an Air Cleaner
You should get a whole house air cleaner, if you can afford one. Or, a portable air cleaner that can be moved from room to room is a wonderful option. Look for one with HEPA filtration, and be sure that whatever you buy does not produce ozone.
- Remove Chemically Treated Drapes or Shades
Ladies and gentlemen, the real and ugly truth is that the drapes and shades hide dust, pollen, and other allergens. If you can remove drapes and shades and replace them with organic fabric drapes and shades. If the cost is prohibitive, consider bartering with a friend who can sew curtains or drapes for you. We really hope you find this article helpful and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Thank you and have a nice day!