Certifiably Green

We are all interested in finding less toxic products for our family. Children's toys and food items are becoming more transparent with their ingredients. But what about household items and home furnishings? During the winter, our kids spend most of their time indoors. Did you know that the air inside can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air? This can come from things as basic as flooring, window treatments, mattresses, cleaners and paints - all things are kids come into contact with every day.

The prospect of "cleaning up" our indoor air can be daunting. But like everything else, taking small steps can be the key to success. Maybe you aren't ready to throw out all your mattresses. But starting with your household cleaners is a good first step. Ready for a fresh coat of paint in the nursery, or new window treatments in your toddler's room? This is the perfect opportunity to shop for items with low toxic fumes.

But how you know which household items are truly green? We have found a great resource. GREENGUARD Certification is a program that measures and verifies the levels of chemical emissions of products being used indoors. It's a great way to find acceptable products for your next redecorating venture. You can even search for a specific product here, to find out if it meets the GREENGUARD standard. The GREENGUARD mark ensures a particular product has passed rigorous testing to prove it will emit the fewest possible pollutants into the air. Their website also has tips on choosing the right paint, reducing mold in the home, and finding ways to reduce the toxins at your child's school.