You use organic cleaners to scrub the tub, buy all-natural shampoo and always recycle your lotion bottles, but you may still have some environmental dangers lurking in your bathroom. Here’s what to be on the lookout for:
1. Low-Quality Materials
A healthier bathroom starts with construction. When attempting budget renovations, many landlords and homeowners use low-quality materials rife with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are found in paint, caulk, sealants and carpeting, among other materials. They have a negative effect on air quality and may pose other health risks, especially if there are small children in the home.
Protect yourself and your family by choosing low-VOC or VOC-free products for your bathroom. It can be difficult to find these products — bamboo flooring, for example, would seem like a natural option, but some is manufactured with a VOC-containing adhesive. Fortunately, a knowledgeable contractor should be able to point you in the right direction.
2. Water Damage
Water damage — especially any resulting mold — can pose a serious health risk, and bathrooms are, of course, more prone to water damage than most rooms in your home. One of the most common reasons that bathrooms suffer water damage is due to flooding. From clogged toilets to overflowing sinks, bathroom floods are something most people have experienced at one time or another.
While proper maintenance can reduce the risk of flooding, some instances may be unavoidable. If and when it happens, it’s important to treat water damage right away. Drainage vacuums can suck up water, and flooded areas should be continuously ventilated until fully dry. Even trace amounts of water, especially in enclosed areas, can foster mold growth, which you may need to hire a professional to eliminate.
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