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Non-Toxic Showers
Safe Tiles
- Ceramic tiles are good if they do not contain lead. They can also contain radioactive minerals.
- Porcelain – a type of ceramic, this does not have chemical offgassing. You may want to avoid tiles with Microban fungicide added to them. I prefer tiles that come sealed.
Lead in Ceramic tile
All ceramic tiles should be tested for lead. A client just tested American-made tiles that stated they were lead-free but when tested they showed high levels of lead.
Be extra careful with dust from cutting or demolishing tiles if you have not seen XRF results on them.
Lead is not the only toxic metal in tile glaze – zinc, barium, chromium, manganese, cobalt, and nickel can be used.
Some tiles also contain nano metals in the surface coatings including silver, copper, and titanium dioxide.
Tiles made in America have a far lower chance of having lead than imported brands, but it is no guarantee.
Tiles without lead:
This study shows XRF lead test results for 64 tiles available in the US (and many in Canada).
12.5% of the tiles tested at a level that I would be very cautious with when cutting or demolishing. (I would take lead remediation precautions with the dust).
Many tiles tests at 0.00 or trace lead levels, which I was happy about.
It did for me, confirm a brand that is doing much better at keeping to their claims.
- Slate and Marble – have a sealer on them already, and marble has a resin (which is applied to most marble before it hits stores). I have not been able to pick up an offgassing odor from it, the resin appears to be cured and inert, but make sure it is tolerable for you. They need re-sealing so make sure there is a sealer you can tolerate. There are two posts for stone sealers – one for natural sealers (darker stones) and one for synthetic sealers (lighter stones).
- Glass tiles are inert and totally safe for the chemically sensitive.
- Concrete tiles – I choose concrete tiles because of the beautiful designs, though porcelain tiles now come in similar looks. It needs to be sealed if they are not sealed already.
The post on flooring goes into a little more detail on tile types.
Chemical-Free Mortar, Grout and Caulk
For non-toxic thin-set and grout see my post devoted to this topic.
The post covers brands of thin-set and grout as well as tile sealers.
Be sure to seal well between the sink and the wall, the bathtub, and floor, around the toilet (if using a toilet with water) with caulk. I have a post the outlines safe caulking compounds.
Shower Pans
I had to make a custom stainless pan for my tiny house because we did not plan the bathroom size around the ready-made ones.
Shower pans typically come in acrylic which would be tolerable for most people.
They also come in fiberglass (it does offgas and scratches easier), cultured stone (most brands are 0-VOC), stone (sometimes with PVC under), solid surface plastics such as Corian and Durat (minimal offgassing if any), and cast iron (very expensive but inert).
Shower Walls (Non-Tile Options)
Fiberglass, Acrylic and Solid Surface Showers
Fiberglass and acrylic showers may be an option for those who are not super sensitive if you installed it yourself with a non-toxic adhesive such as AFM Almighty Adhesive.
Sensitive folks find that fiberglass takes a few weeks to a few years to offgas. Fiberglass is low-end (not that durable, higher maintenance, and not that attractive).
Acrylic surrounds are a step up. There are affordable options as well as high-end options such as those by Kohler. They offgas a little, but not as much as fiberglass. Many contain Microban.
Corian and Swanstone surrounds have almost no offgassing themselves, however, the epoxies approved for installation by the companies do, and I don’t know of any alternative. Be sure to check what is required to install them, some solid surface options are installed with silicone only.
Tadelakt Showers
Tadelakt is a natural waterproof finish for bathrooms including the shower area, that has been used in Moroccan bathhouses for centuries.
It is a labor-intensive finish made from lime plaster and olive oil soap which together produce a chemical reaction that provides waterproofing.
The downside of this finish is that you may need to polish it with olive oil soap as often as every month, it’s prone to cracking in my experience, and those need touch-ups as well. So, you have to be willing to do upkeep with this one. I have seen mold grow in the plaster when it was not touched up.
For a how-to get a hold of this book: Tadelakt.
Metal Shower Stall
I used an aluminum shower stall in my tiny house and was really happy with it. I have a whole post devoted to my shower stall.
Stainless steel could also be used.
The galvanized buckets being used in tiny houses are not proving to be durable and leak-proof in the long-run.
Non-Toxic Bathtubs
Enameled Steel
Typical tubs are made of enameled steel which is safe and tolerable for most people.
There have been concerns about lead in the enamel glaze. It was common in the past. Some companies like Kohler have stated they do not use lead in the glaze of their tubs.
The lead would only leach when the enamel is damaged and it’s not a form that is absorbed through the skin. Though still, tubs, especially older ones can be checked for lead.
Tubs can be installed with mortar instead of glue.
Cast Iron
Cast iron tubs are the tub of choice for many people. New cast iron tubs, especially if made in the US, Canada, and Europe should not contain lead. You should check that the company claims no lead. The same questions and concerns stand as with enameled steel.
Some people like a cast iron tub with claw feet so that no leaks can go undiscovered behind the tub.
Acrylic and Fiberglass
Just like shower surrounds, tubs can be made of acrylic or fiberglass.
For the extremely sensitive these are not usually one of the top choices due to slight offgassing in the beginning. Though with time these become acceptable.
I have heard from very sensitive folks who have done well with acrylic tubs and did not feel there was a problem with leaching or offgassing. American Standard acrylic tubs are one brand that was reported to feel like it was a healthy material. They have freestanding and alcove tubs at Home Depot and Amazon.
Veritek is a brand name of fiberglass.
Acrylic and Porcelenosa tubs can be installed with mortar.
Cast Polymer / Composites / Solid Surface
This category has quite a few different brands and materials.
Corian, Krion, and AquateX are alumina trihydrate with an acrylic binder. They claim the final material is inert.
Victoria Albert is an engineered stone – a mix of limestone and resin (probably polyester resin).
Blu Stone is engineered stone – quartz and resin. There is no gel coat on that one according to the repair instructions it sounds more like a solid homogeneous material, like a quartz countertop.
If the material has a gel coat on it you should get a sample to check for any noticeable offgassing of that coating.
Real Stone
It’s possible to have a bathtub made out of solid real stone. You would want to know what kind of sealer was used. They are very pricy! Porcelenosa makes a real stone tub.
Metal
There are tubs made of metal with no enamel coating. Signature Hardware makes a stainless steel tub. They also make freestanding tubs in various styles made of copper.
Zero-VOC Shower Curtains and Bathmats
Shower Curtains
For a non-toxic shower curtain, I think EVA is the best material.
Polyester will work just fine for many people, though it’s usually coated with polyurethane (just like camping tent material). You may need to wash and air it out before use.
Those wanting to avoid plastic can use a hemp shower curtain, I like those from Rawganique. Make sure it can dry out fully between showers and that your humidity is not too high in the house. You may put it in the washing machine to help keep it clean.
If your house is relatively dry and mold-free and you don’t shower many times per day this might work out just fine for you.
Cotton and linen are more mold-prone but some very sensitive folks do use these without a liner. Take good care to dry them between uses and launder them. Replace them when necessary.
Non-Toxic Bathmats
Natural rubber (which is a latex and will have some rubber odor) works well for me. I bought this OTHWAY natural rubber mat because it had a good non-slip surface on top and also stayed in place with the good suction cups. I was happy with it. It did have a natural rubber odor at first and I left it outside for a day (others might need to leave it for a few days).
TPE plastic is non-toxic and close to odor-free. They almost always contain Microban – I haven’t found one that doesn’t.
Silicone is another non-toxic plastic that will become odorless with just a little bit of time. This is less common and usually more expensive, but extremely sensitive folks will most likely do best with silicone.
I find they all do need some time to offgas after they come out of the package. Any flexible plastic needs to air out.
Water Filtration for the Bathroom
Shower Water Filter
This Culligan shower filter is NSF-certified. It contains activated granule carbon.
This Waterchef shower filter uses carbon block which is a step up. It is also NSF-certified.
While the NSF certification only addresses chlorine, we know the carbon block is especially effective at filtering out a wide range of contaminants from chemicals/VOCs to metals like lead.
I like NSF-certified filters and prefer carbon over other options.
Sprite is a Chlorgon filter material that is NSF-certified and like KDF it uses copper and zinc. This study shows that KDF with carbon does not increase the amount of copper and zinc in the water.
Many other non-certified filters contain an unknown mix of minerals.
Bath Water Filter
There are not too many bath faucet filters. The Cuzn one, uses KDF and carbon block filtration and this will help with chlorine, some chemicals, and some metals.
Lead-Free Faucets
It’s difficult to find 100% lead-free faucets for the bathroom sink, tub, and shower.
MGS an Italian company makes faucets including showerheads that they claim are 100% lead-free. But they are pricey and need to be special ordered.
Nivito and in Canada Bay Castle makes 100% stainless faucets, though I have not been able to get through to Bay Castle about their bathroom faucets.
Waterstone has some stainless steel options and those ones are 100% stainless.
American Standard makes bathroom faucets with the “Lead-Free” certification, which means they can contain up to 0.25% lead, but at least they have been tested.
There are more options in my post on lead-free faucets.
I have not seen a shower head with this certification yet.
Non-Toxic Medicine Cabinets
You can custom-make medicine cabinets with safer materials, or you can buy all-aluminum models like this Kohler cabinet via Amazon or via their website.
IKEA sometimes has metal options as well. Check to see if metal is the only component or if there is particleboard.
It’s not too difficult to find all-metal versions.
Organic Towels
I recommend these organic towels from Amazon (vetted by my most extremely sensitive friend), or Coyuchi towels which are made for the chemically sensitive.
Preventing Mold in the Bathroom
Tile Backing Systems
Don’t lay tiles over particle board, or mold-prone green board. Always use a cementitious board behind tiles or the Kerdi and Wedi boards.
The Kerdi shower system can be used with cement backer boards. Make sure to test out the whole system including Kerdi Fix caulking (which claims 0-VOC). Though most people do not use the Kerdi thin-set.
There are also waterproof boards that are tile backer boards/waterproofing in one: Kerdi Board and Wedi Panels are recommended to produce the most mold-proof shower or bath assembly.
Both are XPS foam with a backing, Kerdi is faced with tri-lam facers containing paper, polyethylene, polypropylene, and interlaced polymer adhesive.
Wedi is faced with fiberglass mesh (on both sides) and coated with synthetic polymer resin mortar. I would test those against your sensitivities, they are not odorless.
Here are the Wedi Panels (you can mention my name at The Tile Shop for 20% off).
I would consider WEDI and Schulter before a liquid applied waterproofing system. But Custom Building Products RedGard is extremely low in VOCs at under 5 g/l.
Wall Boards to Use Behind Shower (Prevent Mold)
Cementitious Boards
If you don’t use Kerdi board or Wedi panels (mentioned in the section above), the best material for behind showers is cementitious boards.
Cementitious boards that can be used behind the shower and other wet areas are Durock (zero-VOC), Hardibacker, and Permabase. (You can mention my name at The Tile Shop for 20% off).
I noticed the offgassing of Durock myself and it does not seem zero-VOC to me, but behind tiles or a shower can be tolerable.
What chemicals are added to cement backer-board?
Cementitious backer boards are made from cement – they can contain fly ash (which can have residual toxic metals), quartz, and perlite. They can contain styrofoam. The fiberglass scrim typically contains PVC and a plasticizer (usually phthalates).
Should you use Magnesium Oxide Board Behind Showers?
The walls of my tiny house were made of Magnesium Oxide board which works in place of drywall or cement board in some cases. It does have a problem with cracking along the seams, at least in a tiny house.
Some folks are using MgO behind tiles but it is not the norm and we have seen numerous problems with MgO over the years, apart from cracking – there have been false claims about VOCs, and lawsuits over the leaching of salts.
Some brands of MgO board I would consider are listed here.
Monitoring Humidity Levels and Leaks
Bathroom Exhaust Fans
A bathroom exhaust fan is absolutely vital to reducing moisture and therefore mold.
I would splurge on this item. If your fan is within a ceiling cavity like mine is, use an external mount fan like this Fantech one. Otherwise, the fan can leak moist air into the ceiling.
In some cases, it might be preferable to have an ERV (air exchange) in the bathroom. This Panasonic WhisperComfort is the most popular among builders.
It’s always good to have a window too, to air things out.
Monitor Humidity
I use this Extech humidity meter in the bathroom and the rest of the house to make sure the humidity is within a safe range of around 50% or lower.
Use the meter to check your everyday humidity levels as well as how long it takes the bathroom fan to bring back the indoor humidity level to ~50%.
Check different rooms, comparing their humidity levels, to see if one room has a higher level. This could be the sign of an unseen problem.
You can also use the humidity meter to check the outdoor humidity levels to see when the best times are to open up the house for ventilation and airflow.
Check for Leaks
Keep an inexpensive moisture meter around to test the moisture content behind walls.
I use this General Tools meter.
Every tiled shower should be checked for moisture, as most showers are not detailed right.
Meters with pins work well on drywall and wood (but not bamboo), for professional purposes like measuring the moisture content of the framing before finishing the house, more expensive meters are necessary.
For your own investigations you can use the General Tools brand or if you want something a little more accurate, the REED brand.
Non-Toxic Cleaning Products
Now that you have gone through all the trouble to pick non-toxic materials, and taken steps to prevent mold growth, make sure your cleaning and personal care products are safe.
Going with natural cleaning products vastly reduces the chemicals you breathe in in the bathroom.
These are the ones I use and recommend.
For air fresheners suitable for the chemically sensitive, see this post.
Corinne Segura is a Building Biologist with 8 years of experience helping others create healthy homes.
Did you find this post helpful? If so you can buy me a coffee to support the research behind this blog. Thank you!
carol grubb says
Hi your info is so helpful.
Having a bathroom shower redone contractor wants to use Mapei mapelastic aqua defense to seal the durock boards is this stuff okay to use?
Will have him use the Shulter Kerdi shower system as you suggest with the durock behind the tiled walls thanks again for al your great info
jennifer says
Thanks for this great article! Wanted to ask where can we buy concrete tiles? I’ve only found cement tiles or “concrete look” ceramic tiles…
Corinne says
I have seen some online still though the concrete look ceramic has become more popular and is definitely more convenient because it’s sealed
Giorgia says
Hi Corine. Thank you for all the informations you provide!
I am about to start a Bathroom renovation and I was planning to paint the shower tile. What products do you suggest? Is there anything safe on the market, or I should just get over and keep the old tiles as they are? Thank you 🙂
Adam Bleakley says
Hello,
I have a towel rack that came out of the wall and a piece of the wall came out. How to I fix that hole in the drywall without VOCs?
Thanks
Corinne says
There is a post on non toxic drywall and one on drywall muds.
elka says
Hi Corine ! Love your website and information that you share with us!
thank you
question: bathroom ceiling paint has cracked in some places, i assume it’s from humidity, it has a pretty thick layer that when pealed off i can see that putty was applied many times over and ceiling was painted after .
what would you recommend using to fix that, Previous owners were not chemical free house. What materials i should get..?
thank you
Corinne says
The thing you have to do is figure out the cause, it could be a poor bathroom fan causing high humidity, maybe moisture from above, maybe it’s a vapour barrier paint causes a point of condensation behind the paint layer, maybe they skim coated and didn’t let the plaster dry first, maybe they painted without a primer etc
elka says
Hi Corine
thanks for your reply,
at this point i need to fix this issue with non toxic free materials because i will be renting or selling my apartment soon. But i am living there for now and want to fix this .What materials would you recommend to use?
Jean says
Hi Corinne — Do you have any recommendations for a non-toxic shower chair safe for MCS?
Many thanks!
Corinne says
Anything made with polypropylene would be fine by my standards.
Jean says
Do you know if “high impact polypropylene” is also safe for a shower chair?
Thanks!
Corinne says
All hard PP
Jean says
Antimicrobials seem to be added to the polypropylene for shower chairs. I’ve always been told to avoid these chemicals… Do you know of any manufacturers who don’t use the antimicrobials or stores that might carry safer chairs? This is so hard to figure out — the information re: antimicrobials isn’t listed online and by phone the manufacturers won’t say which chemicals they use. Any ideas on this are much appreciated — thanks!
fanpelis says
Nice Post!
Mark Graham says
Speaking of Hardie backer cement boards I recommend not using them. For my bathroom remodeling project I have been doing a “try before you buy” for each product. I put one piece in the office, close the door, and leave it overnight. In the morning I open the door and take a whiff. If the air is polluted then the product fails the test and I do not use it. My contractor brought in one 3′ by 5′ piece of Hardie backer board. It didn’t even take all night for me to know. After a couple of hours, as I was in my office working, the air smelled atrocious. I mean horrendous. Anybody with chemical sensitivity would have rejected it. In my opinion it is unhealthy for any person. The air quality in my office was really stunk up and it was a clear no. My search continued for shower wall material that will not pollute the air in my house.
Aziza says
Thank you for your posts!!! I have found your website so useful and you are simply providing general information for free!
I would like to ask you about Polymarble (Solid Stone Resin), it’s something you have mentioned about quartz and resin, maybe it’s a similar technology to make it. Do you think it’s generally a safe material?
Corinne says
I would need to know what it’s made of.
LP says
Hi there! Thank you SO MUCH for all you do! You’re helping me immensely!
What do you know about a waterproofing membrane called dragon skin? It’s a “mixture of latex polymers and other proprietary additives to produce a high quality elastomeric barrier.” On the specs page it says “VOC content is 6 g/L” and i have no idea what that means. https://sienaproducts.com/product/dragon-skin-2/
I’m considering using this to waterproof behind and under the sinks in my bathrooms. I’m sure you have better suggestions, though I’m only finding info on showers. Thoughts?
Thank you so much in advance for any input you may have! I’ve lived through mold multiple times (just barely the first time) and am now fairly chemically sensitive, I’m just not sure to what, specifically.
Karen T Campbell says
Hi Corinne,
We are remodeling our bathroom and I have been trying to find a small vanity that is not toxic. My contractor gave me information on a cabinet company but they use a conversion varnish. I read that conversion varnishes are toxic. Do you know if this is true and if so, do you know of any companies that don’t use this? Any suggestions on what to use? I appreciate any suggestions!
Stacey says
Hello Corrinne! I m looking for the new undermont black bathroom sink. Where can I find lead free and non toixc and no VOC bathroom sink?
Doreen says
Hi, I am trying to avoid using tile in my bathroom. I see the concrete shower and bathtub can be a good alternative. However, I can’t find any article regarding toxicity of concrete especially when it is used for bathtub. Do you have any concern about leaching toxic material in concrete bathtub?
Corinne says
Concrete is not toxic at all but to make it into a tub they will add additives and I’m assuming a sealant so that is what you would want to look at. I have not looked into concrete tubs.
Tami says
Corinne,
What are your thoughts on using Green board with like swanstone products for behind shower wall?
Corinne says
I wouldn’t use greenboard anywhere in the bathroom, I mention some alternative backer boards but many solid surface showers don’t require a backer board.
Trudye Nesbit says
I recently had an acrylic walk-in shower installed. Every time I shower I get a weird taste in my mouth. I’m not sure if it’s the acrylic or the epoxy that was used. Now I am worried abut the health hazards. Are there any articles I could/should read?
Tami says
Hi, I see you mention swanstone but I am wondering about the Veritek by swanstone also, it is a lesser weight for walls and also lesser cost. Also has a glosser look to go with an enamel steel tub, where swanstone is very dull finish to it. Its more of a matt but a dull appearance and pricy like $2,000 to $3,000 for tub surround where the lesser cost Veritek by swanstone is like $1,000. I like it is more glossy and will blend better with an enamel steel tub and full tub panel is 85LBs where swanstone is like 250 lbs for full surround for walls. . Just wonder your thoughts on this. Especially health wise for toxic free home.
Corinne says
The Veritek is mentioned, it’s a fiberglass product so I would expect some offgassing there but I have not seen it in person. It’s best to see a new slab in person to see how you do with it if you are sensitive to chemicals.
Tami says
HI Corinne thank you, I was told by swanstone that their swanstone & Veritek both have fiberglass in them, and both are solid surface but Veritek is thinner. Trying to find more information from Swanstone as there seems to be such differing information on their products in reading on line about them.
Annette Garcia says
We have to demo our bathroom due to mold. I want to avoid drywall in the bathroom. Can I use cement board instead of dry wall?
Diane says
You mention in tubs Veritek is fiberglass, I thought that was by swanstone and is acrylic? I saw swanstone sells a tub ( thinking of using their tub surround you mention in solid surface) and I believe it is acrylic but I may be wrong.
Stefan Robert says
I’m worried about tiles with Microban on them. I likewise saw the tub tangle you suggested some time back has Microban on it.
Mike says
With Swanstone you mention has little off gassing , but you need their adhesive, which does off gas. Although once installed will it still off gas through the swanstone ( with a tub surround)
Corinne says
Swanstone is usually installed with silicone so it’s not too bad. I mean it’s harsh at first but will completely cure and is one of the best adhesives.
Mike says
For solid surface over tile is this the company you’d recommend? Worried having to seal grout in tile each year and then ease of cleaning and upkeep, so kinda thinking solid surface
Mike says
Sorry, I meant in using a solid surface tub surround -over using tile. For solid surface there is different companies of cultured marble and Onyx , would you say Swanstone would be best in the choices for solid surface? I can’t find information on the others, only on DebraDadds site I saw she suggesting swanstone and also on yours. THANKs
Diane says
You mention with acrylic tub surrounds and tubs, can you off gas in garage before installing for a month or so? And do the acrylic tubs leach any toxins like if your soaking it it, plastics or anything?
Corinne says
Yes you can offgas them first, ideally in a heated area. I would expect them to leach in the beginning yes, though I have not been able to find studies on that.
Meena says
Can the KERDI system be used on glass tiles? Is it certified for that? Do they have a product that’s designed for glass tiles?
Corinne says
Generally it’s not used with glass tile https://www.jlconline.com/how-to/interiors/glass-tile-and-kerdi-membranes_o
Celina Burns says
What should I put on the non-tile walls in the bathroom and the wall behind the kitchen sink? Also Do I have to worry about a plywood subfloor since a layer of padding and the actual floor will be covering it?
Corinne says
Cement backer board is usually specified behind wet areas.
Christina Carnoy says
Best chemical free option to resurface a cast iron bathtub?
Thank you very much in advance!
Christina Carnoy
Diane says
Looking for healthy cabinets I am opting for having a builder make cabinets, and using AFM Eco Lacq on on them. Have you had any expense with this?
What do you recommend for grout for tile? Also do you find pre sealed grout is safe?
I’ve been told that grout is safe and even a presealed grout is safe. AFM does make a sealer but I was told just buying presealed grout at any home improvement store I would not need that and it is safe. Just wondering your view ?
Corinne says
Pre-sealed grout could refer to a number of different grouts, epoxy, polyurethane, or maybe one with a lot of latex in it. The post on grout and thinset will help https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/07/non-toxic-grout-and-thinset-mortar.html
These are inherently significantly higher in offgassing than concrete based grout with a grout sealer like AFM Grout Sealer.
Diane says
Hi, Thank you for so much information. I am wondering about Kaldewei tubs they make enameled steel and porcelain tubs? I believe some have micro ban I think ? Yet I read where it is best to go with enabled steel over acrylic. I do know I asked with Kaldewei in email and no lead in tubs. I am not sure of other enameled steel tubs?
Any tub brands you like, or types.
We will be taking out a fiberglass surround, replacing and with tile back.
Do you prefer using porcelain tile for more wear and less chance of lead, over ceramic tile?
Thoughts on Quartz bathroom counter top? Any issues with quartz ?
Corinne says
I haven’t heard of microban added to enameled steep tubs, that seems completely unnecessary. Did you confirm this with them?
Diane says
Yes I do not believe it has that in it.
Nhà Bếp Hoàng Gia says
Thanks for the wonderful post!Those who come to read your article will find lots of helpful and informative tips.
Chris says
Hi Corinne. I was wondering if you've learned anything about the toxicity of Dens Armor Plus? I had a 2×3 ft section of a lathe and plaster wall taken out in my daughter's bedroom that I need to have restored with mold-resistant something.
Truly Green says
Also, when we removed the vanity we discovered that the bottom of the cabinet was somewhat braking apart (8 year old vanity cabinet from home depot, made of flake wood, which I know has formaldehyde). Is it encapsulated and can I get just another new one like it, as I seem to have a difficulty finding one that's made of solid wood under $350. And even some of the ones I found have either some MDF or particle wood parts in them, as well as wood veneers. Any suggestions?
Corinne says
How about repairing the bottom of that one. Otherwise some of the cabinets companies in the kitchen post make bathroom posts. The good ones are definitely expensive. Depends how DIY you are and your level of sensitivities if you want to make something custom or go down to cheaper options.
Truly Green says
I live in 6 story building. Had a leak in one of the pipes beneath my bathroom vanity. The plumber had to break the floor (original tile from from 1951 and concrete that is from about 20 years ago) and replace the pipe. What are the dangers I need to look out for?
He put everything back (all the debris) to cover the 2 square feet that he broke. Now the super needs to come and fix the floor. He told me he wouldn't be using any concrete. Just Thin Set Mortar. I will have him use the one you recommended. Are there any other dangers I need to be aware of? Should we have taken out all those pieces of old concrete and laid new concrete before doing thinset?
Any other things I need to be aware of?
I had a mold issue in the bathroom before but it was on the walls and ceilings only.
Thanks
Corinne says
Be careful with concrete and tile dust. Thin set is usually concrete based.
Amy Richardson says
My contractor wants to use a WEDI shower pan that is guaranteed against mold, BUT it requires the use of an adhesive. He gave me a sample and it still smells after weeks of curing on a piece of cardboard. Not sure if it's giving me symptoms, but I don't like the smell for sure. He thinks it will be fine since it's under so many layers. What do you think? And thanks so much for your detailed information. It's so helpful.
Corinne says
That's a hard call without knowing more about how you have tolerated and reacted to many other things.
Only natural says
I had a really bad experience with green planet paints in my bathroom. I have a window, but no fan. With just a month of applying their primer and paint over many layers of existing paint that was there from years prior, the walls are having mildew form on them in the area close to the ceiling. I keep the window open and the door is slightly open when I shower.
Now I have to clean all the mildew and repaint. It seems like most natural paints are not really suited for the bathroom. Can you suggest a paint and primer I can use for such a high moisture area? I have tiles around my tub that only go up about 5 feet. From then on its gypsum that was used when the building was first buit with many layers of paint over the last 60 years. Also what kind of fan can I use since there is no ceiling cavity?
Corinne says
Thanks for the reminder. I do know that clay and many mineral paints should be avoided in the bathroom. Some people might get away with it with a good fan and short showers. It sounds like your humidity is way too high in there. Have someone come out who installs fans/ERVs and see what they could rig up. Check out the post on paints for more paint ideas.
Unknown says
Hi Corinne! Thank you for an amazing site! You wrote "If you are buying new wood-framed windows, the wood will likely have been treated with fungicides, and should be sealed with AFM Safecoat Safe Seal, AFM Safecoat Transitional Primer, or B-I-N Shellac Base Primer & Sealer (all low-VOC themselves)." Do you recommend using a sealer on the wood BEFORE we paint it? Would the sealer affect the type of paint we can use? Thanks!
Corinne says
I would use the Transitional Primer if you are going to paint.
Rebuild says
Hi, I also researched the Laticrete shower/tub tile system as well, however there is not much information or feedback regarding reliability durability etc
Rebuild says
Hi- Trying go choose the most nontoxic but reliable tile backing system for bathtub/shower tile rebuild.
What are your thoughts on toxity in regard to
1st option: Kerdi board, kerdi membrane, kerdi-schlutler do tra -basically kerdi tub surround/shower system?
2nd option:Wedi board?
3rd option:Hardie backer board usung Laticrete ggold certified hydrobarrier for waterproofing?
Final step-Mortar: Finally, the Platinum Laticrete gggold certified thin set mortar for all 3 systems prior to tile application?
Corinne says
I would love to hear a report on sniff tests of Kerdi and Wedi board. I have not tested them.
Ms.Dig says
And recs on plumbers caulk, tape, solder, glues etc for sealing pipes?
truth naked says
This is such an awesome blog, but I spent an hour trying to find my previous posts and still can't.
Corinne says
What do you mean? Your previous comments?
Unknown says
Hi, I know you posted non toxic grout and thin set, but now I can't find it. Can you direct me. Also I know you mentioned putting down a net over subfloor, what is that again? Please email me [email protected] thanks
Corinne says
Here is the grout post https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2015/10/non-toxic-grout-and-thinset-mortar.html
Not sure what you meant by net but I think the info you are looking for is in that post.
Sabrina says
Hi! I am finding your site so helpful in screening materials for our remodel. Thank you for your exhaustive work in making all you've learned public!
I have a quick question: here in California they use asphalt to "hot mop" seal the shower floor. Do you know of any equally-effective and non-toxic alternatives? I am concerned about long-term offgassing issues from the VOCs in the asphalt.
Thanks!!!
Corinne says
That tends to be quite regional doesn't it! I have only heard of that in CA. I would look into the Ditra system.
Sabrina says
Thanks, Corinne!
Unknown says
Hello, thanks for this article!
I have a question – I am looking for non-toxic lead-free backsplash tile. Glass subway tile was my top pick, based on this article. However, I stumbled across another article which mentioned that lead is commonly used in glass tile? Not sure if there is any truth to this? Any insight would be greatly appreciated. I really need to pick a backsplash tile soon, and I am stressing over accidentally picking something that contains lead since I have small children. Thank you SO much!!!
Corinne says
Hi, I don't believe glass tiles have lead but with tiles always ask the manufacturer. They don't always disclose their lead levels so if you are very concerned, your next step is to ask for a sample of the tile and test it. I also would not be super concerned as you would almost never touch backsplash tiles.
Help says
Thanks so much for the reply! I really appreciate it! I think I should have mentioned that my husband will be installing the backsplash so I gues I'm concerned about lead dust generating from cutting the tiles to size and during installation, etc. I will follow your recommendation to test in advance. Maybe I'll get my husband to do a test cut and then we can test the dust generated. Thank you!
Carol says
Hi Corinne,
Thank you for this great website and all the work that you have put into it. I am concerned about tiles with Microban on them. I also noticed the tub mat you recommended a while ago has Microban on it. Do you have any information on Microban?
Thank you,
Carol
Corinne says
Thanks for noticing that Carol. I wouldn't recommend Microban. I will look for a better bathmat tomorrow and update.
Emma Shulman says
Hi Corinne
Do tiles typically emit high levels of VOCs if they have been treated? I am deliberating if I buy conventional tiles and just go for a VOC free adhesive and grout instead – seems a bit easier! I am based in the UK and we seem to be less eco friendly than in the US!
Thanks.
Emma
Corinne says
Ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles do not emit VOCs.
Somebody says
Hello. You said "Don't lay tiles over toxic particleboard or green board". To do tiles one usually has to put toxic ply underneath. Even if its toxic, the toxins will be sealed underneath the tiles and can't travel through. So why do you say not to do that? Thanks
Corinne says
Hi, tiles should be over cement board in order to not get mouldy. Grout is vapour permeable as well so would not seal in toxins.
Mary Lamb says
Thanks again for taking the time to address my concerns! I've found a tile guy who can lay tile with thick set mud the old fashioned way. We will see.. Thanks again!
Mary Lamb says
Thank you. I was going to use Laticrete 317 but the Laticrete rep said that Hardibacker requires a modified thinset. Is there a way around this? I really would like to avoid any toxins and harmful vocs. Thanks again.
Corinne says
I would call Haribacker. Unmodified thinsets should be used on concrete slab, concrete board and mortar beds. Without synthetic additives the thinset is prone to cracking. That is all according to Paula-Baker Laport. Thinsets with additives that are low odour and offgas quickly are c-cure multicure 905 and c-cure permabond 902. But those both still specify over ply or concrete board.
Mary Lamb says
Hello,
Thank you for all your helpful information, it has guided me along the way to a healthier home. Need some advice. We are doing a partial bath renovation and need to do some retiling over hardibacker board on a shower wall. Can you give a recipe for a non-toxic grout? I can't find any that use lime. Also, the tiles lines will be very thin so I've read not to use sand in this case. Can I leave the lime out or is does it help with mold? A good mudset recipe would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.
Corinne says
The contractor should know the right proportions. the lime is optional. the sand can be very fine or crused. If using thinset you can use c-cure foormix 900, thinset 911, wallmix901 or laticrete additive free. Those are synthetic free. For vinyl additives: c-cure multicure 905, or c-cure permabond 902. For grout free of additives c-cure AR sanded grout 922, c-cure supreme grout 925, hydroment, mapei or summitville-700 summitchromes. use AFM safecoat grout sealer
Livia Koronko says
Hi
thanks so much for this great site for building non toxic homes
I have gone thru quite a bit as well trying to source out safe products for a kitchen and bathroom renovation in my existing home, wow it's quite time consuming. I am now looking for grout and sealer for the kitchen and vanity areas. You mention Potland cement, did you mean Portland cement?? I have also seen a product called Quartzlock. The AFM grout sealer looks pretty good. I did have some problems in the past tolerated the hard seal for some furniture pieces. I hope that this is better for me.
Corinne says
Hi Livia, I know, it's so much to research and test. Yes portland cement is what I am using on my tiles. I tested a lot of the AMF products and the grout sealer smelled totally benign to me even when wet. The penetrating waterstop is a better sealer for cement though so that's the one I will use and it is also zero voc and to me had no chemical smell at all. I was impressed because Im used to so many zero voc products taking me completely out. They have sample sizes that you can buy.
Livia Koronko says
Thanks!
Now I'm trying to find a non toxic drywall that would be good for a kitchen backsplash area. I'm having a difficult time finding the magnum board as we are in BC Canada. I would like to use mosaic 12" mesh 1"x1" tile. I've ordered the AFM 3 in 1 adhesive, Mapei grout and AFM grout sealer. Now I'm wondering if I should have gotten the AFM penetrating waterstop as you've mentioned. Thank you so much for having this blog available, it has been so useful!! I read that MgO board comes from China. This is a bit worrisome with all the stories of the toxic drywall that has been coming from there. The product itself sounds really good though. Dragonboard sounds good too. We're just trying to find some of these products here in Canada.
thanks again =)
Anonymous says
What kind of bathtub did you go with? Do you know about any concerns of cast iron or acrylic leaching any chemicals?
Corinne says
I only have a shower but it's been a challenge. I haven't decided yet. I am wary of fibreglass. For a tub cast iron would be the best option I think.
Anonymous says
Ya that's what I was thinking, some say they are painted though. I guess I gotta make sure its porcelain enamel.
Anonymous says
Have you heard of stains and concrete sealers from BRODA? If yes, what are you thoughts on them?
Corinne says
I don't believe we should be using low-VOC products when there are chemical-free alternatives. Many low VOC or green washed products are not suitable for people with MCS and I certainly wouldn't want them in our soil or water systems either!
Anonymous says
That's pretty much what I said to the lady selling it to me, cause they are out of the mexeseal. She said it's about knowing which VOCS are bad, and even organic, natural things give off some VOCS. She assures me this line is good. I would of rather had the mexeseal, but I need it soon. Where did you purchase yours from?
Anonymous says
That's pretty much what I said to the lady selling it to me, cause they are out of the mexeseal. She said it's about knowing which VOCS are bad, and even organic, natural things give off some VOCS. She assures me this line is good. I would of rather had the mexeseal, but I need it soon. Where did you purchase yours from?
Corinne says
It's true that some VOCs are worse than others but I don't think it matters so much if they are "natural" or synthetic chemicals. The most important thing for you is how much do they bother you and how fast do they offgass. But since it's hard to tell the long term effects/chronic illness effects I avoid chemicals everywhere I can. I haven't ordered sealer yet but I do have a whole posts on sealers with some links. I will order them online.
Anonymous says
I really love your blog. We are building a house as we speak and trying to do it as non toxic as possible. I don't have MCS, but I don't want my family breathing toxic chemicals for the rest of our lives. Right now, unfortunately Magnum board doesn't fit in our budget because this is a temporary house for now ( we are building in the back quarters of our shop, I call it our "shouse", living there for 5-10 years, then building a house.) Anyways is there a cheaper, non toxic option for the walls in a bathroom you would recommend? If we put moisture resistance drywall up, will covering it with non toxic paint seal in toxins? Any info on this will help. Thanks
Corinne says
Hi, I have heard of DensArmor Plus and some other low toxic wall boards. Not sure of the price. One of the AFM primers on the post about Finishes will seal in most toxins but is not 100% VOC-free itself. Plaster or tiling will also mostly seal in VOCS.
Anonymous says
Thanks. Funny you mentioned the DensArmor Plus. I just found it at Lowes 🙂 I look forward to reading the rest of your blog. Lots of great info. Your links take me to Amazon.com, and they dont wanna seem to ship to me 🙁 In Alberta.
Corinne says
http://www.propublica.org/article/american-made-drywall-emerges-as-potential-danger drywall may give off calcium oxide, sulfur dioxide, calcium sulfite. on the MSDS sheet for dens armour plus it states it does give off those in decomposition
Barefoot in the Kitchen says
Great tips, thanks for the post.
Anna Dawson says
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Corinne says
I would not use or recommend any cleaning product that has VOCs. I only recommend cleaning products with 0 VOCs which I outline on the page on cleaning products. Further, carpet is not recommended for people with MCS.