Going green and being more eco-friendly is a goal for most people today. However, if you have allergies or someone in your family does, it can be harder to do this. The problem is, while regulations are coming about, sometimes the things you buy aren’t as eco-friendly as you might think – especially if you’re the one with an allergy.
Make It Yourself
When it comes to finding eco-friendly products and dealing with allergies, you may want to be super-careful and make your own products such as soap, shampoo, cleaners, and the like. The main reason is that the lack of regulation makes it hard to know with certainty what’s in the things you buy. It’s okay for those without an allergy, but for some, it can be deadly.
Read the Ingredients
There are some environmentally-friendly products like bamboo or disposal dishes made from peanut shells and other items that also contain previous food substances like peanuts. This can trigger allergic reactions in those with peanut allergies. You cannot always know the ingredients, but you may want to ask the company how they make something before you buy it, even if it has all the proper certifications.
Watch the Chemicals
Even a brand-new house can have serious problems after it’s first built, eco-friendly or not. The chemicals used, even when they’re considered safe for the environment, might not be safe for you if you have allergies. The biggest culprits are paints, glues, and dyes.
Stick to Natural Fibers
Of course, this comes with the caveat that you’re not allergic to the natural fiber. Most people can use undyed cotton, and if you can then that’s what you should use for all the materials on your furniture and in your home.
Use Wood Flooring
Instead of using one of the newer so-called eco-friendly floorings that are manufactured, you’ll likely be better off using wood. You can use reclaimed wood with great success, and if you use tongue and grove you can avoid glue. Not using carpeting goes really far for anyone with allergies.
Use Low VOC Paint
Using paint that has low odor and low VOC paint is a good option for anyone with allergies. If you can find paint that is recommended and certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, that is the right choice. It comes in many colors and works just like any other paint.
Green Is Not Always Better
Yes, you do want to find products that are not dangerous to the environment. But for you with allergies, you’ll need to watch out for products that say “green.” Just because they’re green doesn’t make them safe for you. Thankfully there are many choices for you that are also green, but don’t think just because it says green that it’s okay.
Living an eco-friendly lifestyle doesn’t mean you always have to be perfect. Some people may have to use synthetic versions of something to still get to have it. Others may choose to do without. The thing is, whatever you can do to reduce your own personal environmental impact, while also not putting yourself in danger, is going to help.
