Page 12 - Summer2011

Try switching to those instead. Or, as mentioned in the discussion of maintaining a healthy kitchen environment, try making your own cleaning products using vinegar, baking soda and lemons. Use baking soda and water on a damp cloth for bathtubs, sinks and toilets. Pour vinegar in the toilet and let stand overnight. This is a very effective disinfectant, and when used with baking soda, helps keep your drains clean. Use vinegar to clean your shower curtain. Put it in the washing machine with four cups of vinegar to the rinse cycle, and then hang to dry. You can also use vinegar to clean the grout between bathroom tiles.

Other products commonly found in the bathroom, such as hair spray, perfume, aerosol deodorants and nail polish remover, all contain chemicals that may harm your health as well. Some release these chemicals into the air immediately, others over a period of time. Some of the short-term health effects include dizziness, nausea, allergic reactions, and eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation. Try using non-toxic alternatives as often as possible and always read the product label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Minimize your exposure to these products by using them only when needed and doing so with enough ventilation (i.e. fans and open windows). Store personal care products in sealed containers to prevent the release of their contents into the air. Also try using fragrance-free products as much as possible.

Basements are also a prime location for mold growth, due to water leakage and the formation of condensation from the humid air during the summer. Water from washing machines, sinks and sump pumps can also add moisture to the air. To avoid mold growth, find and repair any leaks right away and make sure cold surfaces are insulated and that the basement is properly dehumidified in the summer.

Often the basement is where we enjoy some of our hobbies, such as woodworking, painting and pottery. However, unfortunately the dust and gases from many of these hobby materials can irritate or even damage your lungs. Things like aerosol cans, spray guns and air brushes used to spray paint, all emit a very fine mist that is extremely hazardous. The mist contains particles of pigments, solvents and propellants which can remain in the air for up to two hours and can penetrate deeply into the lungs through inhalation. Also, strong adhesives such as wood glue can trigger asthma attacks when inhaled. Water based contact adhesives and white glue are good alternatives. When using these products, stay safe and knowledgeable about how to properly use them and the precautions you should take. Also make sure that your hobby area is well ventilated. An exhaust ventilation system should be used when working with hazardous materials.