Homes and home furnishings in North America today are built of materials sourced worldwide. Materials standards are not adequately harmonized between nations, and commercial interests often override health concerns associated with many products, in part because related health problems may take years to develop and and be difficult to assign cause.

Yet the nationwide increase in immune system disorders, neurological problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivities, allergies, and hormonal disturbances point to environmental factors. A 2004 reportby the British Medical Journal states “it is clear that environmental and lifestyle factors are key determinants of human disease – accounting for perhaps 75% of most cancers.” And estimates show most Americans have somewhere between 400 and 800 chemicals stored in their bodies, typically in fat cells.

Because effects from exposure to toxins are difficult to identify, it can be years before problems from exposure manifest themselves as a disease or chronic ailment. In the US, the EPA does screen many products for some toxins, but until needed revisions to the Toxic Substances Control Act are enacted by Congress, many loopholes in the system leave the burden of responsibility on the consumer to make informed decisions through reading individual product MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets), following recommendations from agencies like Consumer Reports, or by studying product literature.

Realistically, most consumers are unable or do not have the time or expertise to monitor products and materials for hazardous material content. But there a few simple strategies which can be taken to reduce exposure to toxins in the home.