Healthy Air Versus The Window Treatment

10/25/2015 8:34 AM

For most of us eco-friendly buffs choosing non-toxic window treatments is indoor air quality 101.  But it seems that some manufacturers, and even consumers, need to catch up.  So here are a few key tips when it comes to buying window treatments and maintaining the health of your family at the same time:

First, here’s what you need to know:

Poor indoor air quality can cause asthma, cancer and other respiratory problems – especially in children and the elderly.
VOC’s found in window treatments and new furniture are the #1 source of indoor air pollutants.
The more sun that beats on a window treatment, the more the material will deteriorate and off-gas VOC’s over the years.
Solar shades often contain PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which continue to deteriorate and off-gas for the lifetime they are in a home.
Composite materials, such as hybrid shutters or blinds, are made with glues that contain formaldehyde.
Paints continue to off-gas for 3 to 4 years, even if they have no odor.
Fabrics are usually chemically treated with fire retardants, azo-dyes and ScotchGuard which contain PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate).
What can you do about it?

Research who you’re buying from.  Hunter Douglas makes GreenGuard Certified shutters and blinds that are made especially for schools and children.  Whereas The Shade Store offers a selection of GreenGuard Certified Solar Shades.
Select natural fabrics like cotton, linen and hemp that have not been pre-treated with chemicals.
Opt for shades made from bamboo and natural grasses.
Choose solid wood instead of composites.
Make sure paints used are “No VOC” and preferably water based.
Just a few, simple, educated decisions on your part can protect your health and  give you a pretty home too!