The Indoor Environment

While standing in my home the other day, I looked around a saw abeam of light streaming into the room. It was beautiful BUT…it was FULL of particles. I was reminded of the old saying “What you don’t know won’t hurt you.” Evidently, not the case at all! Those particles caused me to sit up and take notice.

Is the air in your home more polluted than the air outdoors?

Here are a few easy tips for keeping your inside environment healthy:

1. Take off your shoes. Leave the grime and bacteria outside.

2. Replace the carpet with hard wood or laminate flooring. The improvements in the laminate market are outstanding. Linoleum is made from Linseed oil and is a natural and renewable plant product.

3. Avoid synthetic rugs, which can contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), petroleum glues or chemical dyes. Better to choose a natural material such as wool.

4. Avoid toxic carpet cleaners. Use steam instead.

5. Use microfiber cloths for dusting. They don’t require any spray! They are also terrific in place of squeegees on the shower door.

6. Switch to glass cleaners that don’t contain ammonia.

7. Choose less porous surfaces for kitchen and bath countertops. Seal them to keep bacteria out.

8. Try to use cleaning agents, which do not contain phosphates. These are toxic.

9. Reduce dust mites in your bed-vacuum your mattress regularly.

10. Use a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner.

11. Make sure your laundry detergent does not contain harmful chemicals. Why would you want to lay your head down on a pillowcase filled with chemicals?

12. Change your home’s air filters regularly.

13. Opt for a shower curtain that does not contain PVC.

14. Be mindful of the overpowering disinfectants and air fresheners. They can’t be good!

15. Use a biodegradable laundry detergent and fabric softener.

16. Look for chlorine-free alternatives and diapers made from recycled content when possible.

About the Author

Debbie Talianko (Allied ASID, CID) is an accomplished Sierra Madre residential interior designer, speaker and industry mentor whose firm has perfected the design of casually elegant interiors.

A San Diego native who grew up near the cliffs of Point Loma, Talianko received a Diploma with Distinction in Professional Interior Design from Rhodec International in London.

“I love classic design but without all the fuss. I’d define my style as transitional – clean, calm and casual.”

Whether managing a complete home renovation, a formal living room design or a kitchen upgrade, her aesthetic is defined by order and fluidity; incorporating relaxed silhouettes, fine fabrics and traditional or modern furnishings that are meticulously crafted. Her passion for the design process allows her to create consistent results for clients who expect a custom interior that lets them feel like themselves at home.

In 2012, Talianko was elected Chair of Pasadena’s California Home & Kitchen Tour, a showcase, now in it’s 26th year, that features the American Society of Interior Designers’ (ASID) most distinguished designers. She is currently featured as “best interior designer of Pasadena” by KeyInteriorDesigners.com.