Understanding VOCs

VOCs are always a concern when it comes to maintaining a clean, healthy home - and they're found in lots of items you use every day, like household cleaners. Luckily, there are many things we can do to reduce our exposure to VOCs, like using Bona Cleaners. 

What are VOCs?
VOC stands for 'Volatile Organic Compound'. These are carbon-based materials that evaporate into the air we breathe at low temperatures - even at room temperature. And since they immerse into the air so easily, we are easily exposed to them every day.

What products contain VOCs?
VOCs can be found in a range of materials, many of them common household items and cleaners. They can be found in paint supplies, cleaning products, building materials, cosmetics, aerosol sprays, craft supplies and air fresheners. Simply put: if something has a scent, it most likely contains VOCs.

Effects of VOCs
The effect of VOCs depends on the period and degree of exposure. Light exposure to VOCs can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, and can also lead to headaches and nausea. More concentrated exposure to VOCs can increase the risk of cancer and damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system.

Reducing VOC exposure
Because of all the time we spend in our homes, reducing our exposure to VOCs becomes extremely important. While the effects of VOC exposure can be harmful, eliminating prolonged exposure only takes a few informed steps.

• Increase ventilation in your home. The biggest problem with VOCs in the home is that they linger in the air without a way to properly dissipate. Simply opening your windows while you clean can greatly reduce exposure.
• Use safe products. Actively seek out low-VOC cleaning products and alternatives to help make your home clean and healthy. Look for products that are certified by a third party like GREENGUARD, and are labelled as child-friendly cleaners and have low-VOC or zero-VOC content. Bona provides many products that are effective alternatives to the most common cleaners that contain VOCs.
• Ventilate spaces. Long-term exposure to VOCs increases without proper ventilation in your home. Using exhaust fans helps eliminate airborne VOCs. Remember to only use exhaust fans when needed - just long enough to eliminate the smell. Excessive use of exhaust fans can actually create a space that draws in unwanted air.
• Switch to solid wood products. Many furniture products that contain particle board or treated wood probably contain VOCs. If possible, switch to wood furniture made from solid, untreated wood.
• Get rid of carpet. A new carpet is often treated with chemicals that contain VOCs. The VOCs in a carpet can last for years, and can act as a sponge for other household contaminants. Installing wood flooring or another alternative flooring is a safer alternative and also increases the value of your home.
• Use and store VOC products properly. When using products containing VOCs, try to buy just enough to avoid prolonged storage. If you need to store materials like paint supplies and other building materials, it's best to store them outside of your main living space, like a detached shed or garage.

While VOC exposure can seem inevitable, prolonged exposure is definitely avoidable. Be sure to make informed judgments on the products you use in your home, and follow these simple steps to keep your home clean, beautiful and healthy.

Bona products are environmentally friendly and safe to use in your home. Take a look at our low VOC, safe cleaners to find the best one for your needs.