What does it mean to use phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring in your home?
This type of flooring is an example of a product which does not contain a set of harmful chemicals (for your health and the environment).
Phthalates are known for being used in vinyl products. The problem with them is they have been linked to certain health and environmental problems.
Phthalate-Free Vinyl Plank Flooring Products
Phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring can be a great alternative. These products have some similarities with natural bamboo flooring.
Using a phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring can be quite beneficial for you.
Benefits of using phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring
No harmful chemicals hidden in your flooring
How would you feel if you knew your entire house is filled with potentially dangerous chemicals?
Probably not very comfortable.
I’m not saying that certain products (like plain vinyl flooring) are filling your house with extremely toxic chemicals and you need to take drastic measures. Yet, it’s essential you know a few details about certain chemicals.
Phthalates have been linked to certain health problems. Breathing issues are one of them. Exposure to phthalates can increase the risk of asthma attacks.
What’s more, being constantly exposed to these chemicals (because they are in your home and you live there) may increase the chances for this to happen.
Going for a phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring can be a great way to avoid such unpleasant situations and decrease the risks.
If you are looking to buy phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring, make sure you do some research about the manufacturing company and their products. Check the company’s website and look at their descriptions (of the company and products). Usually, details about how they make their products and what chemicals they avoid are available.
Great item for your home
Changing your flooring is not something you do every day.
It takes time, energy, and some financial resources (to buy the products and maybe pay someone to assemble your flooring).
Still, when you do it, you want to do it right and with the proper products.
Going for a phthalate-free vinyl plank flooring can be a great option for your home. These products are not only a healthier choice, but they can also be a stylish item that will complement your house.
If you’re interested in this topic, check out chemical-free area rugs.
What you need to know about phthalates
Phthalates are a set of chemicals used in the production of vinyl plastic, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), pliant, and other materials.
Phthalates represent a big category of chemicals which can be found in many household products.
The reason why they’re used in a wide range of products, like vinyl, is because they add flexibility and resilience to them. In fact, approximately 90% of phthalates are used in vinyl.
Here are a few examples of phthalates found in several products:
- Diethyl phthalate (DEP)
- Dimethyl phthalate (DMP)
- Diisononyl phthalate (DINP)
- Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP)
- Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
One of the greatest reasons why phthalates are such a problem is because they can leach. They are not chemically bound to vinyl, meaning they can leach in other environments as well.
Health concerns
One health concern about phthalates is related to the fact that they are endocrine disruptors. This means they can mimic human hormones and send wrong signals to the body.
Phthalates can mimic testosterone, the hormone that contributes to the normal development and functioning of male reproductive organs. Causing certain disbalances in testosterone levels and activity can have serious consequences for male reproduction.
Another health concern has to do with respiratory problems; more exactly, asthma. Studies have shown there is a link between phthalates and asthma. Exposure to these chemicals may increase the risk for asthma attacks.
If you’re interested in this topic, you may also want to check out estrogen-free water bottles.
Environmental concerns
As phthalates can leach, they can end up in the environment (air, water, soil).
When they come in contact with the fauna and flora, they may interfere with its normal functioning.
For instance, phthalates may lead to reproductive abnormalities and different malformations in animals. They can contribute to creating a disbalance in nature and affecting the health of the wildlife.
If you’re interested in this topic, check out compostable paper plates.