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What Everyone Should Know About Safe Alternatives To Toxic Wood Floor Finishes

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 Threat 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 discovered that the most likely culprit for the PCB contamination was a wood finish known as Fabulon, which had widespread use 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 Answer

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

Recognised as the original hard wax oil, Osmo created 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 Hard Wax Oil has passed the EN 71 Toy Safety Test, making it suitable for application onto children's toys.

In Conclusion

Due to numerous choices being available, it's a good idea to purchase a sample of a finish for testing, but your family's health no longer need be such a major concern when it comes to something as basic as finishing your wood 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.

About the Author

Dave "Woody" Woods is well-known for his expertise in the art of wood finishing and getting the best out of natural wood surfaces in the home.  Friends and clients affectionately refer to him as "The Wizard of Wood".

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