Choosing Non-Toxic: Understanding VOCs and Their Impact on Our Homes
In our journey towards creating safer, more sustainable living environments, two terms frequently surface: "non-toxic" and "VOCs" (Volatile Organic Compounds). Today, let's delve into what these terms mean for our homes and health, and why it's crucial to understand them as we strive for healthier living spaces.
What Does "Non-Toxic" Really Mean?
The term "non-toxic" suggests that a product is safe and poses no harm to human health or the environment under normal usage conditions. However, it's important to note that "non-toxic" doesn't have a universally accepted definition in the context of consumer goods, which can make navigating product choices a bit challenging. This ambiguity is precisely why we also talk about VOCs — to provide a more specific framework for evaluating product safety.
The Lowdown on VOCs
VOCs are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and can have short- and long-term adverse health effects. They're commonly found in various household products, including paints, cleaning supplies, and yes, furniture. Because VOCs are measurable, discussing them gives us a tangible way to assess and minimize our exposure to potentially harmful substances in our homes.
How Are VOCs Measured?
VOC levels are typically measured in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m³). Several organizations and standards, such as GREENGUARD Certification, use these measurements to certify products that maintain VOC emissions below certain health-based criteria. This measurement provides a more scientific basis for evaluating the "non-toxicity" of home products.
Bridging Non-Toxic and Low-VOC:
At Doves & Tails, we believe in the importance of both non-toxic and low-VOC products. Here's how we commit to these principles:
-Transparency and Standards: We choose materials that are both non-toxic and low in VOC emissions, adhering to rigorous standards like GREENGUARD Certification to ensure our furniture contributes to healthier indoor air quality.
-Beyond VOCs: Recognizing that "non-toxic" encompasses more than just VOCs, we also prioritize materials that are free from other harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde and phthalates, to ensure the safety and well-being of your family and the planet.
Making Informed Choices
Understanding the nuances of "non-toxic" and VOCs empowers us and YOU to make more informed decisions about the products we bring into our homes. Here's how you can apply this knowledge:
**Seek Certifications**: Look for products with credible certifications that indicate low VOC emissions and adherence to health-based standards. Certifications are expensive and prohibitive for many small companies, so its perfectly reasonable to find a company you trust and ask them for a complete material list.
- Ask for Transparency: Support companies that disclose the materials and chemicals used in their products, allowing you to assess their safety and environmental impact.
- Prioritize Ventilation: Regardless of the products you choose, maintaining good indoor air quality through ventilation can significantly reduce the risk of VOC exposure.
Our Promise to You
We started Doves & Tails not just as a business, but as a mission to provide families with safer, more sustainable furniture options. We understand the importance of creating a non-toxic environment for our children and ourselves, and we're committed to transparency and excellence in every piece we craft.
Thank you for joining us on this journey.
