Material Health Guides
These guides are packed with information about healthier materials. They also contain the rating scales I use to stay unbiased and consistent when I’m analyzing products for the shop. I hope they’re useful for you, too. (My favorite guide right now is the Aluminum one.)
Is rayon non-toxic? Why is BPA in fabric? Is USDA organic fabric safe for people? Fabric processing is surprisingly chemically intensive and there’s a lot of healthwashing in this world. Learn how to spot truly healthy upholstery, bedding, and other textiles here.
What is memory foam made of? Is EVA foam safe? What’s the difference between Talalay, Dunlop, and FSC certified latex? Learn about what’s in foam, how it’s processed, and how to choose a mattress, couch, or other foam-padded furniture that’s safe enough for you.
Wood and “Wood”
Does all wood have formaldehyde in it? What’s the difference between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood? Is luxury vinyl flooring safe? Learn about all these types of wood and “wood,” plus what healthier stains and finishes are.
Is furniture wood glue toxic? Once a solvent-based glue is done off-gassing is it safe? Learn about the best non-toxic glue options used to hold furniture and layers of mattresses together.
Is incense toxic? Are IFRA certified fragrances safe? Why are candles bad for you? Learn why the scent itself is just part of the equation when it comes to choosing healthier fragrances for your home, and what else you should be looking for.
Why is it so hard to find a non-toxic paint? What is the least toxic paint? Learn why zero VOC paint is a good start, but what kinds are even healthier for your home.
Is aluminum a neurotoxin? Are aluminum pots safe to cook with? Does aluminum cause breast cancer? Learn more about how your body deals with aluminum, and if you need to avoid it more or less.
What’s more accurate, leach testing or XRF testing? Can I get lead poisoning by touching lead? Why would anyone ever choose to use cookware that has lead in it? Learn more about how to make decisions about lead in your home.
