Chemicals In Your Carpet? & 3 Weekend Home Projects for Kids

For Serious Homeowners seeking Practical Solutions.

May 15, 2025

Dangerous “Forever” Chemicals In Your Home

1) PFAS chemicals have been used in some home building materials. Carpets, fabrics, mattress pads, cleaning products, wires, cables, furniture, wall paint and even cell phone screens.

If you are not familiar with PFAS, here is an overview:

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and the human body, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals."

Exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to a range of health concerns, including immune system suppression, liver damage, and increased risk of some cancers.

Consequently, there is increasing regulatory pressure to limit their use and develop safe alternatives.

2) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) have also been on the radar of health advocates for years. These chemicals in products are also not healthy for humans.

Health Effects of VOCs Short-term exposure can cause:

Headaches

Dizziness

Eye, nose, and throat irritation

Nausea or vomiting

Worsening asthma symptoms

Long-term or high-level exposure may lead to:

Liver, kidney, or central nervous system damage

Increased cancer risk (some VOCs like formaldehyde and benzene are known carcinogens)

Common Home Building Materials that Contain VOCs

Material Type

Examples of VOC Sources

Paints & Finishes

Latex/oil-based paints, stains, varnishes, sealants

Adhesives & Glues

Carpet glue, wood glue, construction adhesives

Flooring

Vinyl, laminate, engineered wood (with glue layers)

Cabinetry & Furniture

Particleboard, MDF, plywood with formaldehyde resins

Insulation

Spray foam, fiberglass with formaldehyde-based binders

Wall Coverings

Wallpaper with VOC-emitting adhesives

Caulks & Sealants

Silicone, acrylic, polyurethane caulks

Cleaners & Solvents

Paint strippers, degreasers, household cleaners

What can we do?

  • Look for “Green Seal Certified” products. Learn more here: Green Seal

  • Look for “UL GreenGuard Certified” products. Learn more here: UL GreenGuard

  • Check the product literature for anything you purchase.

  • Choose alternatives to non-stick cookware, such as stainless steel or cast iron.

  • Choose clothing and outdoor gear that do not use PFAS. Beware of “waterproof” or “stain proof” fabrics.

  • Chose brands and retailers that have committed to banning PFAS as a company policy.

  • Choose carpets, furniture, and rugs without stain-resistant treatments.

  • Be careful with food packaging, including fast food packaging and microwave popcorn.

  • Consider using a drinking water filter that is certified to reduce PFAS levels.

  • Check the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) for all known chemicals contained in a product.

In conclusion, PFAS chemicals and VOC’s are out there. While a lot of industry has pushed to remove them from shelves such as (Home Depot) with PFAS, but not everyone has. You have to do some product research to be sure.

3 Home Projects For Kids

Kitchen Cabinets

How can we get our kids involved in home projects? Here are 3 easy tasks for kids to help with:

  • Tighten Cabinet and Drawer Pull Hardware

  • Clean Glass

  • Stock Paper Products

  • Bonus Idea - Wipe Down Patio Furniture

Canada Awesome Homes For Sale

Here are a few examples of some amazing homes from Canada.

  1. Halfmoon Bay Waterfront in British Columbia

    The best waterfront decks you’ve ever seen. Around 5,500 square feet of large window floor area. Asking about $3 million. 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms.

  1. 50+ Forest Acres Luxury Home Near Toronto

    Check out that evening poolside view! Landscaped to perfection with a private pond house. An indoor gardeners dream. 7 Bedrooms and 10.5 baths. Asking about $13 million.

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