When J. D. was 51 years old he consulted Dr. Elliott complaining of insomnia, asthma, and fatigue. It became clear from an exhaustive environmental history that J. D.’s symptoms began during the time he lived downwind from a location where aerial spraying was carried out seasonally for pest control. The repeated pesticide exposures apparently had left the patient feeling debilitated, without his usual zest for life, and with multiple medical problems, including allergies and sensitivities to a wide range of substances.
As part of his treatment program, J. D. was advised to reduce his exposure to toxins in his home. Since he was on a limited budget owing to his decreased earning capacity, he concentrated his cleanup efforts primarily on the bedroom, intending to focus on the rest of the house later. Given the time he spent in bed, J. D. realized that his bed should be the healthiest place in the house. He had recently purchased a mattress made of artificial foam. The synthetic fibers were emitting formaldehyde fumes as the mattress aged, probably contributing to the tight feeling in his chest upon waking. Fortunately, J. D. was able to sell his boxspring mattress and purchase an organic cotton futon, which he placed in an untreated wooden frame. His formaldehyde impregnated, wrinkle-free sheets and polyester bedding were exchanged for 100 percent organic cotton pillows, sheets, and blankets. Because of his concern about possible dust mites in the mattress, he used an organic cotton barrier cloth, woven so tightly that it was impenetrable to these insects. He laundered his bedding frequently in unscented, nonchlorinated detergent.
After J. D. recovered financially from replacing his bedding, his next project was to pull up the old carpet in the bedroom. Although the carpet was several years old and no longer outgassed toxicfumes, it was still a reservoir for dust, dirt, and microorganisms in spite of frequent vacuuming. J. D. wanted a floor that was attractive, health enhancing, and easy to clean. He chose to install presealed cork flooring because it resembled wood yet felt soft to the bare foot. On the floor he placed two untreated wool scatter rugs that could be easily taken up and cleaned.
The heating system in J. D.’s house is forced
good support and absorbency in a chemical — free environment. Untreated wool will repel dust mites, mold, and mildew. The mattress base should be a European-style wood-slat foundation, which allows the natural mattress to breathe and gives the same height and look as a conventional box spring. People with sensitivities to natural latex would need to test a mattress with latex before making a costly purchase as most mattresses are nonreturnable.
Permanent-press bedding is treated with formaldehyde that remains in the fabric after washing. Wool blankets may be mothproofed with harmful chemicals. Even pure cottons, unless organically grown, are heavily sprayed with pesticides. Healthy choices for bed sheets include organic natural fibers in cotton, cotton flannel, silk, hemp, or linen. Blankets, duvets, and comforters are available in organic down, silk, wool, or cotton.
air. The ductwork had been cleaned on a regular basis and electrostatic air filters were used on the return air ducts. Nevertheless, J. D. decided to close off the vents to his bedroom and use an electric ceramic heater. In addition, for the bedroom he bought a portable air filter that contained a HEPA filter for dust, mold spores, and pollen and a charcoal filter for fumes. The electric motor in the air filter was sealed to avoid toxic emissions and the unit itself was housed in a metal box.
J. D. did not know whether he was sensitive to electromagnetic fields. Since there would be little time or expense involved, he decided to take the necessary measures to reduce EMFs. He discarded his electric blanket, replaced his digital alarm dock with a battery operated one, moved his telephone into an adjacent room, and plugged in his television at the other side of the bedroom so that the screen was more than eight feet from his head.
The curtains on the windows were replaced with naturally finished wooden louvers, which were handsome and easy to clean. The room was cleaned once a week with a simple solution of vinegar and water. He was careful not to introduce toxic odors such as air fresheners, fabric softeners, colognes, and other artificially scented household products. When he occasionally needed to dry- clean his clothes, he left them on the back porch for a few days to air out the toxic chemicals found in dry-cleaning fluid. He was careful to remove his shoes before entering his sanctuary.
J. D.’s efforts paid off. He noted a definite improvement in his overall health. He was now able to get a full night of uninterrupted sleep and awake feeling refreshed, without the tight sensation in his chest. His energy increased and he was able to think more clearly. J. D. gradually regained his enthusiasm for life and has become a great proponent of the benefits of bedroom sanctuaries.
Discussion
We spend an average of eight hours a day in our bedrooms. Sleep is an important time for rest and recovery for all of us, whether we are sick or in the best of health. Designing our bedrooms with special care can create a healing environment where our bodies can mend from the daily barrage of exposures we all experience to varying degrees.
There is some confusion about the various terms used to describe cotton products. According to the Pesticide Action Network, conventionally grown cotton accounts for nearly 25 percent of the worlds insecticide use. Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and with farming practices that increase soil fertility. Natural or green cotton products use conventionally grown cotton but are free of harsh chemical bleaches, dyes, and sizing elements such as formaldehyde. “100% cotton” indicates that no other fibers have been used in the fabric but does not mean that the fabric is organic or naturally processed.
Sources for organic beds and bedding include:
• Casa Natura: Consultant and retail source for natural and organic beds, bedding, and linens
