Feeling a little ill? For most of us, we settle into bed and wait for the cold of flu-like symptoms to fade away. But what if they don’t? For some, the symptoms linger for days, weeks, even months. Eventually, they start a hunt to find out the root cause. It may lead straight to your flooring. 

Lumber Liquidators reached a settlement for their formaldehyde filled flooring.

It’s not just laminate flooring at risk. Some vinyl flooring has been found to have high levels of phthalate, an ingredient used to make plastics more pliant. They are also known carcinogens. 

Think carpeting is at less risk? Think again. Selecting a synthetic carpet may make your carpet more durable and stain-resistant, but it can also contain more VOCs – volatile organic compounds. These toxic fumes can put your health at risk. 

What’s a homeowner to do?

First, pay attention to what is installed in your home. Think natural instead of synthetic. Think sustainable. Think organic. 

Any time you install natural products in your home, you’re more likely to breathe a little easier. But don’t stop with your flooring choice; pay attention to the installation process too. What glues will the installer use? Keep every part of the installation process as natural as possible. 

Next, be conscious when caring for your new flooring. Don’t bring in any more chemicals than necessary. Use natural cleaning solutions. Better yet, make your own. Vinegar and water is a natural cleaning solution you can use at any time without the harsh chemical smell associated with some cleaning products. 

You should also ensure that your home has proper ventilation throughout. Be sure your home’s heating and cooling system is properly vented. Use a dehumidifier to ensure your home has proper humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew from forming.