You may have seen the term labeled on the can of fresh paint you just grabbed from the hardware...
There are products in your home emitting toxic VOCs into the air right now as you're reading this.
In a world where we are continually aiming to be more conscious of the products we bring into our homes, it's important to learn and understand the facts.
We'll be diving in on what homeowners need to know about VOCs, how they affect your health, and the top items in your home containing high levels of VOCs.
What are VOCs?
"VOCs" stands for Volatile Organic Compounds.
Volatile organic compounds are gases that emit from different types of liquids, solids, and chemicals in a process called "off-gassing". It's important to note that not all VOCs are made equally. Some VOCs are naturally occurring and while they are still contributing to the ground-level ozone, they may not be doing so at such a high rate and with such compromise to your health.
The dangerous VOCs that you should be concerned about, are often emitted from man-made products, causing negative health effects.
What are the Health Effects of VOCs?
Have you ever spent the day painting and end up with a pounding headache that lasts hours? Yep, VOCs did that.
But it's not just a bad headache VOCs can cause. There is a whole slew of symptoms you may experience with both short-term and long-term exposure to VOCs.
Short-Term Effects
Long-Term Effects
The 4 Things Polluting Your Home with VOCs
From products you use and buy often to the very construction of your home, here are all the things that are emitting high levels of toxic VOCs into your home, affecting your health and indoor air quality.
Household & Personal Care Products
- Fragrances
- Nail polish and nail polish remover
- Some non-stick cookware
- Air fresheners
- Some household cleaning products
- Disinfectants
- Laundry detergent and fabric softeners
Furniture
- MDF Furniture
- Memory foam mattresses
- Foam found in furniture
- Some upholstery
Household Paints & Finishes
- Paints
- Wood finishes
- Paint strippers
- Spray paint
Flooring and Building Materials
- Carpet
- Vinyl flooring
- Composite wood products
Ways to Combat VOCs in the Home
While VOCs are essentially impossible to avoid, there are ways to reduce the amount of toxins in the air. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use an air purifier
- Store extra paints or coatings outside of your home, such as in the garage.
- Purchase solid wood furniture
- Invest in greener flooring and building supplies
- Purchase greener wood finishes
- Look at the ingredients and chemicals
