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How to Choose Less Toxic Products for Your Home Project ...
Reprinted from Remodel It! (available free of charge to San Francisco residents -- call 415/695-7375 or see "FREE Home & Garden Guides to Prevent Water Pollution" at www.sfwater.org)
For most jobs there are usually several types of products to choose from, such as oil-based and water-based paints. Naturally, the goal is to buy a product that will get the job done well and as quickly as possible.
Fortunately, most hazardous products now have less-toxic counterparts that get the job done well.
For example, water-based paint is less hazardous than oil-based paint, dries faster, saves time, and eliminates the need for chemical solvents for clean-up and hazardous waster disposal. And your wall and trim will look good.
Remember to buy the least-hazardous product when you have a choice!
The Importance of Labels
Make a habit of reading the label before you buy, even if you already "know" a product. Labels provide important safety information as well as help you make the best use of the product and alert you to any changes in formulation or concentration. Labels also list the manufacturer's telephone number in case you have questions. Read both the front and back labels.
Key things to look for:
- Warnings and safety precautions.
- Products marked Danger are the most hazardous. Consider a less hazardous product.
- If a label states "Use with Adequate Ventilation," plan to do the job outdoors if possible.
- If the label states Flammable or Combustible, the product or its vapors can catch fire. Disconnect power equipment and other ignition sources. Make sure you have good ventilation.
More is not better
- Use amounts as directed on the label. Excess amounts will only lead to more waste and may make your project take more time.
- Only buy the amount you'll need for the job so you won't have leftovers to dispose of or store.
Water-Based Products are Safer
Water-based products contain fewer or no oil-based solvents, are generally easier to clean up, dry faster, and are appropriate for many uses. Look for Water-Based or Water Cleanup on the label. Even water-based products contain chemicals, so always take precautions.
Look for these water-based products:
 Paints Stains Finishes Paint Strippers
Five Problems with Oil-Based Solvents
Oil-based solvents are contained in many paints, paint strippers, stains and finishes. These products are generally more dangerous than water-based products because they give off more vapors and many can catch fire.
- Solvent-based products are harder to clean up and require hazardous
solvents, such as paint thinner, for cleaning.
- Solvents and solvent-soaked rags can cause fires.
- With some solvents, explosion is also a danger.
- Chemical solvents are environmental hazards when discarded into inside drains, street drains, or the garbage.
- Inhaling solvent vapors can make you nauseated or dizzy. Direct contact can cause irritation and burns on the skin and in the eyes. Some solvents, such as methylene chloride, may cause cancer.
- Hardware Hotline September, 1998
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