Non-Toxic Dad News: May 16, 2024

Buckle up for a critical health alert every car owner needs to read! Recent research has unveiled a concerning issue: almost every car on the road today could expose you and your family to harmful carcinogenic chemicals. An astonishing 99% of vehicles tested were found to contain toxic flame retardants, many of which are linked to serious health issues, including cancer.

But that's not all—our vehicles are also a significant source of at least 250 different Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), found in parts of the car we come into contact with daily, like seat cushions. These VOCs are not just unpleasant; they're dangerous. They pose serious health risks, potentially disrupting hormones, contributing to obesity, and increasing cancer risk.

Considering the average person spends about an hour each day in their car, these findings are not just alarming—they necessitate immediate attention, especially for those of us with longer commutes or children. It's crucial to note that children, with their smaller bodies, are particularly vulnerable as they can absorb these toxins more readily.

In this issue, we'll dive deep into what these findings mean for your daily commute and how you can minimize your family’s risk. Stay tuned for actionable tips and insightful information that will empower you to keep your car’s interior as healthy as possible.

We all love that new car smell, don’t we? It’s an intoxicating aroma that seems to scream, “welcome to your shiny new ride!” However, have you ever stopped to consider what causes this distinctive scent? You might be surprised to find out that this “fresh car smell” could carry some potential health risks.

Ever wonder why some people rave about jumping into an ice baths? It sounds like a dare, right? Well, it turns out that this chilly challenge has some pretty cool benefits— pun intended. Let’s dive into why turning the temperature down could be worth a try.

Woodworking, a hobby cherished by many for its ability to bring ideas to life and offer a sense of accomplishment, might not be as benign as it seems. While transforming a piece of wood into furniture or decor can be rewarding, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks involved—specifically, the exposure to heavy metals.

This week, let's focus on reducing our exposure to harmful VOCs and flame retardants inside our cars—where we spend a significant part of our day. Here's a practical tip to keep the air in your vehicle as clean as possible:

Regular Ventilation: Open the windows for the first few minutes of your drive each time you enter your car, especially if it's new or has been sitting in the sun. This simple action helps disperse the concentration of VOCs that build up when cars are closed and parked. Incorporating regular ventilation into your routine can significantly decrease the toxic compounds you and your family breathe in.

For a deeper clean, consider using a small, portable air purifier designed for automotive use. These devices can help filter out harmful particles and reduce exposure to toxins inside your car.

By taking these steps, you can help protect your health and that of your passengers, making every journey a little safer.

You can create an effective car vacuum deep clean powder with just baking soda and essential oils. This simplified version is still a great natural cleaning option for absorbing odors and freshening up your car’s interior. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of baking soda

• 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (such as lemon, lavender, or peppermint for their pleasant scent and antibacterial properties)

Instructions:

1. Mix the Baking Soda and Essential Oils: Add the essential oil drops directly to the baking soda in a bowl. Essential oils add a refreshing scent and can help to reduce bacteria.

2. Combine Thoroughly: Stir the mixture well to ensure that the essential oils are evenly distributed throughout the baking soda. This helps maximize the fragrance and the cleaning effect when used.

3. Application: Sprinkle the mixture generously over the car’s carpets and fabric seats. If the seats are leather, test a small area first to ensure that the oils do not cause discoloration or damage.

4. Let It Sit: Allow the powder to sit for 15-20 minutes. You can leave it for up to an hour for stronger odors or deeper cleans.

5. Vacuum: Vacuum up the powder thoroughly. Baking soda is fine enough to be picked up easily by most car vacuums without leaving any residue.

6. Enjoy the Freshness: Your car should smell fresh and feel cleaner after vacuuming. Baking soda also helps to neutralize any lingering odors, leaving behind the subtle scent of the essential oils.

This simple recipe is an excellent way to maintain a fresh and pleasant car environment without the need for harsh chemicals or more complex ingredients

As we wrap up this newsletter edition, we hope you feel equipped with valuable insights to keep your car environment as healthy and toxin-free as possible. Drive safely and breathe easy, knowing you're taking proactive steps to protect your and your family's health.