We tend to think that at home, we are shielded from pollution. Mistake! Between chemical cleaning products and surfaces made of toxic particles, we are actually exposed to high levels of pollution. Do you dream of a healthy home? Here’s how to achieve it.
A healthy body in a healthy home—this could be our new mantra. Especially when we know that, paradoxically, it’s not outside but inside our homes where we breathe the most polluted air! The culprit is the toxic materials present everywhere: varnishes on floors or tiles, furniture, paints, composite materials, not to mention cleaning products or heating and cooking methods. The World Health Organization is clear on this and reports millions of deaths each year due to indoor pollution. Does that give you chills? It does for us too, which is why we decided to dive into the issue. There’s no need to move to Helsinki for cleaner air; a few changes in your habits will be enough to safeguard your health.
A greener envelope
To create a more breathable home, start by choosing eco-friendly materials and coverings. For walls, opt for water-based paints with no chemical additives. In Morocco, most manufacturers have added a green range to their catalogs. Still, be vigilant and carefully read the composition. No industrial-origin products should be listed. Does the composition include solvents? Move on. Also, ensure that pigments such as resins are of natural origin.
For flooring, the list of coverings that fit into a more sustainable decor is really long. The choice will obviously depend on the style and budget you have. But to name a few, you might choose natural wood flooring, ceramic tiles, cement tiles, or any other recycled composition. Creating a healthy home is certainly an investment. The cost of materials and substances, even if they come from nature and are minimally processed, is significantly higher.
When it comes to furniture, things get a bit more complicated. Most major retailers offer collections of chipboard furniture coated with chemical stains or paints. These often contain the highest levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), harmful to both our health and the environment. The industry started offering affordable alternatives in the 2000s, especially for babies and young children. For the rest of the house, you’ll need to be creative or spend significant budgets.
In Morocco, we are fortunate to have quality artisans and the option to choose solid woods. Just make sure to explain your expectations regarding the use of varnishes, for example. Don’t hesitate to bring the artisan who will make your custom furniture some linseed oil or borax.
A more natural decor
In terms of decor, one trend that has stood the test of time is natural-inspired decoration. Originating from cultures around the world and often revisited in a bohemian-chic style, this trend is essentially about using objects and textiles made from natural products. Ideal for ensuring a healthy interior!
In practice, prioritize recycled glass objects when possible. Choose wooden or cardboard light fixtures. Opt for cushions and bed linens made from pure cotton or linen. The current trend is also to use wicker. Conveniently, Moroccan artisans are particularly skilled in wicker and doum basketry! Baskets of all sizes and shapes, perfect for stylish storage, are easy to find. For your rugs, prefer sea rush or sisal if you’re into minimalist design, jute and its natural fibers, or naturally dyed wool rugs like Beni Ouarain or Beni M’Guild for a chic Berber vibe!
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Cleaner air
While the design, layout, and decor of your interior are important, ensuring the quality of the air is crucial! First, ventilate regularly and ensure proper air circulation according to feng shui principles. This ancient Chinese art focuses on the harmony of environmental energies to promote the well-being and health of occupants. Exactly what we need, and we’ve actually discussed it here before! To achieve this, you have two options. Either consult a feng shui professional or seriously research the topic by reading some books.
Next, invest in a good air purifier, even though it might not be the most stylish addition to your decor, we admit. Choose one with filters; it will be much more effective. Each filter has a role: one for capturing dust microparticles, one for volatile gases and VOCs, and another for allergens like dust mites or pollen. The air quality will be significantly improved, and you’ll notice the difference quickly.
We often forget them, so we’ll remind you. Plants, especially air-purifying ones, are valuable allies in your quest for a healthy home! Visit a nursery and buy, for example, an azalea, a dragon tree, or a Boston fern. These plants can absorb pollutants and release oxygen. Plus, they’ll add a green touch to your home.
Finally, one last piece of advice: get rid of all your non-natural candles. You can’t imagine how toxic they are. Forget incense and its fragrant but harmful smoke. For essential oils to diffuse, dilute them with a bit of water and prefer rosewood from Asia, lemon eucalyptus, geranium, or true lavender. We’ve included a comprehensive list here.
