P2 House - Bedroom
Fragrances
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy in the bedroom can potentially reduce stress and create a relaxing environment. Instead of using chemical-laden aerosols for aromatherapy or to neutralize odors, consider using essential oil diffusers. Essential oils offer a variety of scents extracted from plants, such as the leaves, roots, stalk or flowers. Available in various sizes and designs, diffusers release these fragrances into the air.
Personal Care Products
- Research products. Read labels and familiarize yourself with ingredients. The California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database collects data from cosmetic products that contain ingredients known or suspected to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Visit the website to learn more about chemical ingredients in your products and how they affect your health | View Database >
- Be wary of product labels. Products labeled “organic” or “natural” can be misleading. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-certified organic seals indicate that 95 percent or more of the ingredients are organic. A product that claims to be organic without the USDA-certified seal is probably not made with more than 95 percent of organic ingredients.
- Select items with fewer toxic chemicals. Choose products with a simple list of natural ingredients such as oatmeal, green tea or plant extracts.
- Make your own products. Find recipes for homemade lotions, facial cleansers, sugar scrubs and body oils.
Candles
Moth Balls
Moth balls contain ingredients (either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) that become a gas when exposed to air, producing a scent that is harmful to moths. However, these pesticides and chemicals, such as naphthalene, are also considered toxic to humans by the EPA. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified naphthalene as a possible carcinogen to humans and animals. As an alternative to the toxic variety, consider purchasing cedar moth balls or making your own non-toxic sachets by using all-natural ingredients, such as dried lavender flowers, rosemary, cloves, cinnamon sticks or cedar shavings. There are several recipes for homemade alternatives available online.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs can hide in a variety of places from mattress piping, seams, tags and box springs to cracks on bedframes and headboards. Early detection and prevention methods are important to avoid infestation. To protect your home from bed bugs:
- Keep your space free of clutter
- Vacuum your rug and mattress frequently (using a hand tool or a hand vacuum)
- Check secondhand furniture including beds and couches for bed bugs
- Check your room’s mattress or headboard before sleeping in hotels
- Use luggage racks when traveling
- Store suitcases away from your bed
To learn more about preventing bed bugs, visit the EPA’s webpage | View Now >