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In the last century, paints and varnishes became a mix of synthetic chemicals, with high levels of volatile organic compounds — VOCs can aggravate respiratory complaints and the effect continues long after the smell of paint fades — and manufacture of such paints often uses heavy metals that cause pollution. Some wall and floor coverings also contain chemicals that give off gases over time. Now, manufacturers offer healthier, low-impact alternatives.
- Select paints and stains with minimal, low or medium levels of VOCs, especially if any of your family has asthma.
- Go one step further and select paints that use natural materials such as linseed oil, oil of turpentine, citrus oils, plant and tree resins, chalk and clays, earth and mineral pigments.
- Use beeswax or linseed oil to seal and feed wood.
- Choose floor coverings made from linoleum, sisal, hemp, seagrass, coir, natural cork, bamboo, natural rubber, wool.
- Choose wallpapers made from recycled paper or sustainably produced wood pulp, formaldehyde-free, and printed with water-based inks.
- Use linoleum, rubber, recycled glass for splashbacks — but ceramic tiles are OK too.
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