DO: Look for ingredients on manufacturer websites. Call the manufacturer if they’re not listed. If they refuse to tell you what’s in their product, why take the risk?
DO: Test products if you are very sensitive. Leave the cap off the product and monitor health effects. If it’s really safe, VOC-free and non-toxic, you should be able to be around it without getting dizzy from fumes!
DO: Learn about VOC’s. What are they and how can you minimize their impact on health.
DO: Read the directions. Water-based products might be different from those you grew up using.
DON’T: Rely on marketing terms such as “green, non-toxic or environmentally friendly”. Check this site to find out what eco-labels really mean. Great info.
Below is a list of useful links for searching for safer caulk and sealant.
Non-Toxic Adhesives, Caulks and Sealants
http://www.metaefficient.com/adhesives-caulks-and-sealants/non-toxic-adhesives-caulks-and-sealants.html
Nontoxic Floor and Nontoxic Furniture Sealants
http://www.nontoxic.com/nontoxic/nontoxicsealants.html
Caulk: Healthier Choices
http://www.healthyhouseinstitute.com/a_879-Caulk_Healthier_Choices
Again, always test a product BEFORE slathering all over your living space. And remember, what works for some might not work for you.
