Day 2 Session 1: Greener Cleaner Indoor
Speaker: Mark Sneller, Phd
Aero Allergen Research
Author, Greener Cleaner Indoor Air
Abstract:
Indoor air pollution is a hidden cause of many health problems, including asthma and cancer. The air we breathe can harm us, not only because of allergens that enter from outside, but also because of the chemicals we saturate our homes with.
GREENER CLEANER INDOOR AIR –
A Guide to Healthier Living — 2nd Edition
by Mark R. Sneller, M.S., Ph.D.
(former consultant to Chlorox and Sara Lee Corporations for development and promotion of
Tilex and Endust))
Markrsneller.com
snellermark@gmail.com
Available on Amazon books
Several takeaways:
NASA study debunked: Contrary to popular belief, a new thorough study finds that plants do not clean the air
NADCA (North American Duct Cleaning Association) does not recommend use of ozone, fragrance or anti-microbials in duct work
Do all you can to maintain at least one “clean room” in the residence
Use white wine vinegar as an all-purpose anti-microbial to frequently wipe down fridge and microwave exteriors and counters (a 1:10 to 1-20 dilution of household bleach will also work)
Avoid use of pressurized aerosol sprays, whenever possible; use pump sprayers instead
Use kitchen and bathroom fans frequently to remove odors (asthmagenic) and pull in fresh air
Remove shoes when entering the home to avoid tracking in pollen, spores, and dirt
Pay attention to weather reports: they can forecast your asthmatic, allergic, and other health conditions
Although scientists can’t yet measure whether air purifiers reduce symptoms of allergy and asthma, they are still recommended for reduction of airborne particles and VOCs; carbon filters will emit what they absorb once saturated; ensure the door remains closed to the room you are trying to treat; when purchasing an air purifier, pay attention to the cost of maintenance
Ensure ALL doors and windows are weather-stripped
Leave yard-work clothing outside, or bag it
All breeds of cats and dogs are allergenic; and they bring in allergens from outdoors
Remove all products from beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks: evaluate whether simpler agents will do the same thing (eg. Cleaning the oven: sprinkle baking soda over burned drippings and pour vinegar over the soda. Permit to soak for several hours, wipe clean)
Switch to fragrance-free products when possible, especially in the laundry room
Fungal toxins found in the blood are likely present from foods and not from inhalation of “toxic” spores,
No USA or European agency of repute supports the theory that toxic mold spores cause harm through inhalation, including the AMA and the AAAAI. Beware of remediation companies that suggest that you have toxic spores (Toxic means poisonous and can cause harm. This has never been shown to be true with inhaled spores regardless of Internet hype)
Periodically inspect interior of home for water damage
Wipe down interior of car to ensure reduction of accumulated dust, pollen, and spores
Go online to check MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for a product you may want to use in the home. Although the MSDS is geared toward personnel who produce the product, it will tell you about its cautions and potential harmful effects