I came across a good article on 10 Steps to Building An Organic Bedroom and thought it would be good to share them here. Here is a summary of the 10 Steps:
First of all, it’s time to look into removing airborne allergens like dust mites, pollen, mold, mildew, bacteria, viruses, and anything else that disrupt sleep and present a risk to our health. Step 1 Get rid of your old mattress, no matter how new it is or costly you think it might be to replace. Flame-retardant and stain-resistant chemicals were sprayed on it at the factory. Foam cushioning could contain PBDEs or petrochemicals that give off gas (chemical off-gassing). Since you spend nearly one-third of your life on your mattress, this important item should be replaced as quickly as possible.Choose a natural cotton mattress or organic cotton mattress. While cotton mattresses tend to be very firm and hard, you can add a wool topper to soften the top and relieve pressure points. A topper will also reduce body indentations that occur over time.
A natural latex mattress provides your neck, shoulders, hips and knees with superior support because you sleep in the mattress rather than on top of it. You’ll toss and turn less frequently and sleep more peacefully, allowing your body’s immune system to rejuvenate for the next day’s activities. For me, I would prefer natural latex mattress because it is anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, dust-mite proof, and relieves pressure points. Be sure the latex is at least 97% natural and not a 60/40 blend of natural and petrochemical-based materials.
Step 2 Can’t afford a new mattress right now? Add a pure wool or natural rubber topper to your mattress. The topper won’t stop your old mattress materials from off-gassing, but you could rest more peacefully knowing that you have put some distance between your body and the toxins.
Cover your mattress and pillows in organic cotton barrier cloths or zippered encasings to protect you from inhaling dust mite allergens. Studies have shown mattress and pillow encasings can relieve eczema suffering.
Step 3 Replace treated bedding with items made with all-natural or organic fibers. All fabrics, unless specified, are treated with a chemical flame retardant or stain protection.Choose pillows made with untreated cotton, organic cotton (better), buckwheat hulls (great neck support), wool (best at moisture wicking), or natural rubber (97% natural latex).
Select sheets, blankets, and duvet covers made with untreated or organic cotton or wool.
Avoid down comforters (and pillows) because they draw moisture in but don’t dry out quickly and can produce mold. They also attract dust mites. Instead, select a wool comforter for warmth and superior moisture-wicking properties.
Step 4 Air out bedrooms and bedding. Doctors, the EPA, and National Lung Association all recommend opening windows to recycle the air regularly. For those with seasonal allergies, a window guard stops pollen, dust, and dirt particles from entering your room.
Let your bedding air out for a while.
Step 5 Get an air purifier. Be sure your unit uses HEPA filtration. HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air, and a good HEPA filter will eliminate 99.97% of all particles the size of 3 microns or larger.
Have a mold or mildew problem? Remove it yourself with bleach or have professionals take on this serious task. Once eliminated, invest in an Airfree air sterilizer, the only air cleaner that kills mold without producing ozone.
Step 6 Remove old carpeting. It’s a breeding ground for dust mites. Replace flooring with hypoallergenic cork, ceramic tile, wood flooring that is not treated with a toxic finish, or recycled linoleum called Marmoleum. Warm your toes with scatter rugs that can be easily washed.
Step 7 Get rid of treated draperies or shades. Invest in untreated wood blinds, fabric shades or window treatments made with organic fibers.
Step 8 Do not use VOC paints, stains, or sealants. AFM SafeCoat products are used in hospitals, and are recommended by environmental medicine physicians. Or, try hemp wall upholstery that can be stapled into place without using adhesives.
Step 9 Or, install a whole house air cleaning system. Another option is to install special furnace filters designed to remove 90% or more of allergens and particles 2-10 microns in size. AllergyZone is designed by an allergist for allergy sufferers, lending credibility to its filtering technology.
Step 10 Maintain a clean sleeping environment. You should wash bedding often in hot water at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit to kill dust mites. Cold water washing can be done with detergents specifically designed to kill dust mites.
Clean floors often, especially under the bed, using fresh mop heads or HEPA vacuum and non-toxic cleaners.
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