Eco Pregnancy and Baby

In many instances, pollutants in the workplace are similar to those at home, unless you work in an industrial environment, near a construction site or in any location that requires frequent exposure to hazardous chemicals. Concerned about what may be present? Ask to review your company’s Material Safety Data Sheets, the U.S. Department of Labor [...]

While launching a remodeling project before your baby’s arrival may seem like a good idea, it requires a lot of different building materials–glues, paints and chemical solvents. “Suddenly your house turns into a construction site with contamination levels that can be problematic,” says Ted Schettler, M.D., M.P.H., science director of the Science and Environmental Health [...]

Ever wonder what’s in the air you breathe in your home? Can it affect your health or the baby growing inside you?
“Indoor pollutants are often more hazardous than those outside,” says Ted Schettler, M.D., M.P.H., science director of the Science and Environmental Health Network and co-author of In Harm’s Way: Toxic Threats to Child Development [...]

New carpet can emit harmful chemicals from carpet fibers, backing material and adhesives, dyes and fire retardants. If you’re buying new carpeting, ask the installer to air out the rolls for 24 hours before installation. Open the windows for ventilation and, if possible, stay out of the room until the air clears (48 to 72 [...]

Sometimes you just can’t avoid toxins — they’re everywhere, even in the air you breathe. But here are a few tips for limiting your exposure as much as possible.

Increase ventilation whenever possible and consider investing in an air purifier.
Keep windows and doors open to release pollutants when vacuuming, dusting, frying, painting or folding clothes.
Use household [...]