You would think that keeping your home clean would be one of the best things you could do to protect your indoor air quality and avoid the need for VOC testing or a mold inspection, right? Unfortunately, as the experts at AirMD, specialists in environmental testing and mold remediation in Boca Raton, FL, will tell you, that might not be the case.

Of course, not doing the house cleaning isn’t the solution. (It would be nice if we didn’t have to do it, though, wouldn’t it?!) What you’ll need to do to make sure you’re not releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals into the air your family is breathing is read the labels and understanding what is in the cleaning products that you’re using.

According to the American Lung Association, “Household and cleaning products—including soaps, polishes and grooming supplies—often include harmful chemicals. Even products advertised as ‘green’ or ‘natural’ may contain ingredients that can cause health problems. Some cleaning supplies can even be flammable or corrosive.”

That’s right. There is no law that says manufacturers have to list everything that goes into the products they are trying to sell you. Just because the label says something is an eco-friendly choice, don’t believe it. Do your own research!

How to avoid harmful VOCs and chemicals in cleaning and household products

Here are some tips from the American Lung Association that can help you keep the air in your home safe:

• Read all labels on cleaning supplies and household products before you buy them. Choose products that do not contain or have reduced amounts of VOCs, fragrances, irritants and flammable ingredients.
• Avoid using air fresheners altogether.
• Follow the directions and use products only as they are intended.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has put together a list of cleaning products you might use in your home or car that meet its Safer Choice requirements.
• As a safer cleaning alternative, warm water and soap often will do the trick, especially at home. Baking soda is good for scrubbing. A mix of vinegar and water can clean glass.
• When using cleaning or household products, keep the area well ventilated. Open windows and doors. Never use cleaning products in a small, enclosed space.

If you have concerns that your irritated eyes, scratchy throat, headaches or other health problems might be related to the quality of the air in your home, you can call the air quality experts at AirMD at 1 888 GO AIRMD (1-888-462-4763). We will help you determine if VOC testing is right for you. We offer professional residential and commercial services throughout the state of Florida, ranging from formaldehyde testing Jacksonville to mold removal in Miami.

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The experts agree. The incidence of allergies and asthma is on the rise – among children and adults. Mold is one of the most common triggers for allergy and asthma attacks. Having a residential mold inspection may help you identify health risks in your home. Formaldehyde testing and testing for VOCs (volatile organic compounds) may also help you maintain a healthy environment within your home.

Allergies are nothing to sneeze at. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), allergies are a serious health concern in the United States. “Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. with an annual cost in excess of $18 billion. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year,” they report.

Should you be concerned about mold?

You and your family may be at a greater risk of being exposed to mold depending on where you live. Mold inspections in Florida and other hot humid areas are common. AirMD’s experts are frequently called in for mold remediation in Boca Raton, FL – where our corporate offices are located. Our experts are also in demand for mold inspections in Miami, mold removal in Orlando and mold removal in Jacksonville.

Of course, Florida isn’t the only place where mold thrives. For example, the need for mold testing in Houston increased dramatically in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

Testing for mold and other environmental hazards is important because, as the CDC points out, “Allergies can generally not be prevented but allergic reactions can be.” The only way to do that is to avoid contact with whatever it is that you or your child is allergic to. In many cases, that is easier said than done.

The presence of mold in your home is nothing to be ashamed of. Mold is a common problem. All it takes is a small leak or water intrusion. The leak might be so small, you aren’t even aware of it.

We’re experts and we have to rely on state-of-the-art equipment to identify the source and extent of any mold problem!

If you would like to talk to one of our environmental consultants about the possible need for mold testing in Boca Raton, FL, mold removal in Tampa or a mold inspection in any of the other many areas we serve, please call 1 888 GO AIRMD.

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