Natural Hard Wax Oil Eliminates Dangers Of Toxic Wood Flooring
Not so long ago, it was discovered that a health hazard existed in some homes with wood flooring.So how can you be sure to avoid this threat?
Not long ago, a case study conducted by researchers at the Silent Spring Institute in the United States found that some homes with wood flooring were contaminated with PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). PCBs are persistent organic pollutants, meaning they do not easily biodegrade. Due to their toxicity and cancer-causing properties they were banned in the 1970s, but the use of products containing PCBs prior to the ban can have lingering effects.
The Danger Underfoot
The Silent Spring study found that current exposure from old wood floor finishes were possibly impacting some homeowners’ health more than their diet.The researchers concluded that the most likely source of the contaminations was a particular wood finish called Fabulon, which was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Those who lived in homes where the product had been used had elevated amounts of PCBs in their blood as a result of the toxins being present in the household air and dust.
The Safe Alternative
Thankfully, having a hardwood floor in the home doesn’t have to result in a health threat any longer. Wood oils and hard wax oils are available on the market that consist of all-natural and environmentally safe ingredients, making them so safe they can even be used on children’s toys.
Osmo Polyx Oil
Known as the original hardwax oil, Osmo developed their product six years ago. Osmo Polyx Oil does not contain biocides or preservatives, making it safe for humans, animals and plants when dry. The product also complies with German DIN 53160 (meaning it is colourfast to perspiration and saliva) and EURO-NORM EN 71 (indicating it’s safe for use on children’s toys).
Osmo’s commitment to manufacturing and supplying only products that are safe and environmentally-friendly resulted in successful certification according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2000 (quality management) and DIN EN ISO 14001 (environmental management).
Fiddes Hard Wax Oil
A slightly cheaper alternative is Fiddes Hard Wax Oil. Its make-up is probably 98% similar to Osmo Polyx Oil, and also provides a tough finish for high-traffic areas.
Fiddes has been tested in accordance with BS3900 G5 and BS 3900 E15 standards, meaning it is highly-resistant to liquids and wear. Also, like Osmo’s product, Fiddes Hardwax Oil has passed the EN 71 Toy Safety Test, making it suitable for application onto children’s toys.
The Natural Conclusion
Because of the many options available, it’s a great idea to get a sample of a finish for testing, but you no longer need to be so concerned with your family’s health when it comes to something as simple as finishing your hardwood floor. No matter which product is chosen, wood flooring (and any household natural wood surfaces) will benefit greatly from hard wax oil’s protective properties.Most importantly, these finishes are completely non-toxic and safe for any manner of application.
