Decorating Your Natural Home
(Page 4 of 6)
July/August 2006
By Misty McNally
Mattresses and Pillows
Synthetic foams often found in sofas, mattresses and pillows rely on nonrenewable petroleum. In addition, the fire-retardant chemicals used on the foam—called PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers)—are showing up in human blood and breast milk and in food. Opt for all-natural fillers instead of these hazardous foams.
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■ Natural latex (n/r) from rubber trees, not to be confused with synthetic latex, provides a durable, healthy sleeping surface. Both synthetic and natural latex are called by the same name, so request specifics from the manufacturer or retailer. Also, natural latex allergies are rare.
■ Wool (n/r) is a mattress filler that’s renewable, breathable and even fire retardant. Few people are actually allergic to wool, although it can be itchy to some. A combination of wool over a natural latex core is common.
■ Down (n/r) is soft and breathable, and it’s less likely to cause an allergic response if the maker washed it thoroughly before stuffing. You often can detect a scent on down that has not been adequately washed.
■ Buckwheat, kapok, syriaca (milkweed) and beans (n/r) are good pillow fillers for those who have vegan sensibilities.
Upholstery, Linens and Other Textiles
■ Wool (n/r) is a favorite for warmth and durability, plus it absorbs 30 times its weight in water. Look for wool from sustainable farms.
■ Cotton (n/r), when grown conventionally, uses more pesticides than any other crop. Organic cotton is easier on the earth and is readily available in sheets, towels and upholstery fabric.
■ Silk (n/r) cultivation is natural, but not cruelty free. To obtain long silk fibers, makers boil the silkworms in their cocoons to kill them before they mature and tear through their silk encasements. A few makers are producing "vegetarian" or "peace" silk by harvesting wild cocoons after the moth leaves. Also look for silk producers that prohibit child labor.
■ Hemp (n/r) cultivation is not allowed in the United States, but the fiber is excellent for durable textiles such as in towels.
Countertops
Ceramic tile, stone, natural linoleum and wood all can be used as countertops; refer to the Flooring guidelines, at right. For kitchens and baths, choose a countertop material that’s waterproof and hygienic; kitchen surfaces should be heat resistant.
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