Home decor and health have officially begun intertwining. Here are the must-have items that adorn living spaces while delivering serious health benefits.
An organic mattress
Generic mattresses can be a major source of chemical exposure, especially when manufacturers use highly toxic, flame-retardant chemicals including polybrominated diphenyl ether, or PBDE. PBDEs are associated with brain and reproductive damage, thyroid problems and even cancer. As companies aren’t legally bound to disclose these harmful ingredients, a safer bet for a sound night’s sleep and long-term health is an organic mattress, that’s chemical-free, hypoallergenic, and sustainable and biodegradable, so it’s good for the earth, too. One to try is the Zenhaven Mattress by Saatva is made of organic wool and natural latex.
A cast iron skillet
Have you noticed how trendy those stunning fire engine red cast iron skillets are from Le Creuset? People are all about them, so much so that the French brand has come out with some seriously bold colors like pink and lavender. But it’s not just the bright colors people are into; they are also better for your health.
Though a nonstick pan makes for easy cleanup, they may contain certain chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, which has been deemed “possibly carcinogenic to humans” by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Meanwhile, cook with a cast iron skillets and you’ll not only avoid harmful chemicals, your food will be infused with good-for-you iron, too.
Air purifier
From bacteria-laden household surfaces and household pollutants that cause allergies, an air purifier is a smart addition to your home. Try Molekule Air Purifier, which uses a patented technology, Photo Electrochemical Oxidation (PECO), that works at the molecular level to eliminate indoor air pollution.
Plants
Plants have certainly become a hot home addition in recent years, from the no-fuss succulents to the drapey golden pothos. Beyond their beauty are some incredible health benefits, including the reduced levels of carbon dioxide, certain pollutants, and airborne dust.
Bright colors
Before you eschew the power of color, know that there are many studies that reveal the color you choose to paint your walls, or the colors you pick for your rugs, furniture, and drapes, can seriously impact your mood. In a Dutch study, participants found yellow to evoke feelings of happiness, while researchers at the University of British Columbia found that blue induces relaxation and creativity.
Cooking utensils
Much like the need to steer clear of nonstick pans, you should also avoid cooking utensils that have cheap, chemical-ridden coatings or are made with toxic glues and adhesives that can all leach into your food. Bamboo cooking utensils that are “organically certified ” are made from certified organic resources that won’t put you at risk and are also better for the environment. You’ll also find bamboo cutting boards, dinnerware, and utensils to round out your healthy kitchen and dining essentials in the Bambu line of organically certified products.
No shoes in the house
Research has been revealing the health benefits of going barefoot indoors. In one study, researchers at the University of Arizona found that there are, on average, nearly 421,000 different bacteria present on the bottoms of 96 percent of shoes. Pesticides, tar, lead, mold, and cleaning chemicals can also get tracked in your home via your footwear—so trade those shoes at the door for a cute pair of slippers!
Greener textiles
Synthetic fabrics including nylon, rayon, and polyester are petroleum-based, which means they take a lot of energy to produce and suck up nonrenewable resources. They’re also typically coated with stain treatments and flame retardants that are toxic, including perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). There are many great eco-fibers to choose from and include materials like organic or recycled cotton, wool, hemp, and flax (linen). VivaTerra and Stem are two eco-friendly companies to consider when you’re in the market for new home decor.
Use Natural Cleaners
There’s no doubt that heavy-duty cleaners get the job done. But for light daily cleaning, it’s not really necessary to bring out the serious chemicals. And since most natural cleaning recipes can be made using just a few simple, inexpensive ingredients — like distilled water, white vinegar, Castile soap and baking soda — you’ll breathe easier and probably save a little cash.
A few easy cleaning solutions to try:
- All-purpose cleaner: Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of vinegar and water at a 1:1 ratio and use a microfiber cloth to clean. This works on windows, mirrors, bathtubs, tiled floors and more.
- Marble, granite and quartz cleaner: Fill a 24- to 32-ounce spray bottle with water; add 4 to 5 ounces of rubbing alcohol, six drops of Castile soap and several drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or rosemary.
- Stainless steel polish: After cleaning the surface with an all-purpose cleaner (see above), spray it lightly with coconut oil cooking spray. Rub in the oil with a clean dish towel or paper towel.
Choose the Right Water Filtration System
If you’ve been using the same water filtration pitcher for years, it may be time to upgrade. Undersink water filtration systems tend to work more effectively, thanks to the added pressure forcing water through the filtration system — and since they filter while being used, there’s no need to remember to refill a pitcher. Beyond your drinking water, you may also want to consider a filter that attaches to your shower head, especially if excessive chlorine in your water bothers your skin.