Question: I keep hearing a lot about VOCs. What are they? Are they harmful? Are they lingering in my home?

Answer: Volatile Organic Compounds, commonly known as VOCs, are carbon-based chemicals found in many home products, such as paint, cleaning agents, fire-retardant treatments for carpets and upholstery, and laminate bindings in furniture and cabinetry.

Unfortunately, VOCs are released as gas into air and water, and although they’re organic, these chemicals can be harmful. They’ve been linked to respiratory illness, headaches, and skin and eye irritations. Some VOCs like formaldehyde—which is classified as a carcinogen—are regulated by the government, but many aren’t.

VOCs can continue to contaminate the air and water in your home years after the products that contain them were installed. Thankfully, there are safe and eco-friendly new options for all kinds of household goods that have little to no VOC content.

Most paints that feature the low or no VOC label are comparable to traditional paints in price, durability and color. Additionally, furniture manufacturers are putting more thought than ever before into the components that make up their finished products, and losing the VOCs in the process.

If you’re dedicated to both your family’s environment and the planet’s health, you can access many healthy, green choices for your home…just do your research and read the labels!