There are many choices for non-toxic flooring suitable for the chemically sensitive or health-conscious homeowner.
The absolute best options are real hardwood, polished concrete, and tile.
However, specific brands of natural linoleum, carpet, and engineered wood are excellent choices as well.
I will look at a few options that are still non-toxic, but not quite as toxin-free, like luxury vinyl plank, laminate, cork, and bamboo.
If you are looking only for 0-VOC floors, those are outlined here.
This post covers green non-toxic flooring divided into three categories, starting with the purest options:
1. The Greenest Options (Dark Green)
2. Medium Green
3. Light Green
This article contains affiliate links, upon purchase I earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Greenest Floors “Dark Green” (Zero-VOC, No Off-gassing)
i. Natural Solid Hardwood
@fourboardwoodworks flooring & installation
@thomashartshelby photography
Natural wood flooring is usually my number one choice. It’s one of the purest and safest options. A few caveats for those extremely sensitive:
Wood contains natural terpenes that are safe (and even beneficial) for healthy folks, but do bother some extremely sensitive people.
Aromatic woods like pine have higher natural volatile compounds than maple, as an example.
Flooring can contain anti-sap stain chemicals, which could explain why a few people react to wood used in building and not wood in the forest.
Not all of these treatments are harmful.
Wood also has a higher possibility of harboring mold than less porous materials.
To prevent mold you should make sure your wood has been kiln-dried and kept dry at the store and onsite. In normal conditions, this is not an issue.
Wood Finishes
There are many green, zero-VOC options for finishing wood. I used a natural penetrating oil on my floors, a purest option. Tung oil and linseed oil are two natural oil finish options.
If you want a synthetic finish, AFM Poly BP is a great non-toxic option.
I go into detail on natural floor finishes here, and the synthetics I tested and compared here.
Wood Floor Glues
For subfloor glues, my top pick is definitely AFM Almighty Adhesive which is safe and highly tolerable.
My post on construction adhesives has more info.
There are no VOC/HAPs wood fillers by Mohawk Fil-O-Wood and ECOS for the nail holes. I find the standard Minwax wood putty to be too potent. The Dynamic putty pencil is very benign.
Unfinished Hardwood
You can buy solid unfinished hardwood flooring from specialty flooring stores, as well as Home Depot, Lowes, and LL Flooring.
These big-box stores have networks of installers.
Prefinished Hardwood
Usually finished with aluminum-oxide-infused polyurethane and cured under UV lights, these are typically very well tolerated by chemically sensitive folks once cured.
It is zero, or close to zero-VOC.
This finish has a few benefits, not having to finish it in-house, it’s super durable and will last a long time, and the finish partially blocks the wood odor.
Almost all brands of pre-finished hardwood are of the same composition.
It would likely send you in circles if I mention brands – you want to start with what’s available in your area.
Installation of Hardwood
Use solid wood baseboards – they come in both primed and unfinished (I wouldn’t recommend MDF or PVC in most cases).
My post on non-toxic underlayments goes over the best options.
Nail-down installation is less toxic than glue-down. You may need a small amount of glue on some pieces, or you may be able to face nail.
Best practice for wide planks is to glue and nail. Consider the width of the planks at the planning stage.
ii. Polished Concrete
If polished concrete flooring makes you think IKEA warehouse, think again, polished concrete can look beautiful and be green and healthy.
Most polished concrete systems use sodium silicate or potassium silicate which are very safe and benign.
Polished concrete is vapor open which makes it one of the best flooring types, alongside tile, over a concrete slab.
A topcoat of urethane is usually added.
You can do acid stains, add natural pigments, use white cement, or add white sand to Portland Cement to get many different unique and modern looks.
Other concrete sealers
Concrete can also be sealed with topical acrylic or polyurethane sealers, penetrating sealers, or epoxies.
Epoxy is a two-part sealer, where each part, in theory, comes to a complete chemical reaction with the other. In reality, it’s not that neat. It’s likely to off-gas even if it claims zero VOC.
Eventually, it should come to a complete cure.
For a complete review of concrete stains, sealers, and paints, see my dedicated post on this topic.
iii. Tiles
Types of Non-Toxic Tiles:
Marble tile is good in theory. Most of it has a resin put on it at the factory to fill in tiny holes and fissures, and it might have a (chemical) sealant on it as well.
The resin seems to cure fully and be fine for most people. Honed stones can be sealed at home.
A pure slab, or tile, that does not have a glossy finish can be sealed with a natural sealer (I tested them here) or low toxin sealer (I tested those here). Keep in mind that white marble is the most difficult stone to seal in a non-toxic way.
Slate is also good, you can find it unsealed. Though like with marble, a resin is used to fill lines and pits.
Light colors can be sealed with Trinova, and warm or darker-colored stones can be sealed with walnut oil. Some types of slate and granite are dense enough to not require a sealer.
Concrete tiles have beautiful designs. You may want to ask what additives are in the concrete and test them out for tolerability. If it’s unsealed you can use the sealers in the concrete post.
Other natural stones like limestone, travertine, and soapstone are great options for green healthy floors. Highly sensitive folks may want to check if a resin or sealer is already applied, and then check to see which natural sealers will work over the stone of your choosing. Honed stones (i.e. not glossy) are the easiest to seal with a natural pure option. Very dense stones like many granite types and some slate do not require a sealer at all (bonus).
Tile Sealers: Green companies make walnut oil and hemp oil that can be used on natural stone and concrete. I have tested the natural oils on slate, light-colored marble, and dark-colored marble. Walnut oil is the preferred oil for most indoor stones, as hemp can turn the color, and tung is too thick.
Ceramic/Porcelain tiles have a high incidence of lead in the glaze. Ask for lead test results from the company and check out my lead testing results. To test for the level of lead, you need to hire someone who has an XRF tool.
Lead in Tiles: All ceramic/porcelain tiles should be tested for lead or assumed to have lead and other heavy metals. I tested tiles sold in the US from big well-known stores and smaller online retailers and a high percentage tested positive for lead.
Once you have ruled out lead, ceramic and porcelain tiles are inert and safe. Plus, you don’t have to seal them. My post on grout and thin-set looks closely at the other materials used in the installation.
Wood-look porcelain tiles are zero-VOC even though there is a printed image on them. The glaze seems to block this. I do not detect anything that is different from regular tiles.
Glass tiles are inert, but most types are too slippery to use on the floor. They can be used on a backsplash.
Air Cleaning Tiles
Some tiles claim to clean the air. This process uses photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) to clean the air by using a layer of non-toxic titanium dioxide in the tile glaze.
This reacts with UV light, and just like the PCO air purifiers I reviewed, creates a reaction that can break down some bacteria, molds, VOCs, and viruses.
I don’t know how impactful this tile coating will be to the overall air quality in a room, especially a bathroom, which may not get much UV light (if at all).
This technology is also used on wood floors.
2. Medium Green (Zero to Low-VOC)
i. Natural Linoleum
Marmoleum, the only residential natural linoleum currently available in North America, is made from linseed oil, pine resin, wood flour, limestone, and dry pigments.
They are mixed and then calendared onto a backing. It’s got a UV-cured sealer on top.
The glue used to install it claims zero-VOC and does contain mildewcides (typically isothiazolinones).
Acrylic-based flooring glues also typically contain a plasticizer (source).
I found that after one month the linseed odor all but disappeared from the Marmoleum product – though many people say the odor never disappears 100%. I used this in my trailer. I was surprised and impressed since I don’t normally do well with linseed.
Three Types of Marmoleum
- The roll-down flooring that is the most typical kind (the sheet) has a jute backing and is glue down.
- The modular tiles are also glue-down, they have a polyester backing (not jute, and not fiberglass as some websites say) and are slightly more rigid.
- The “click” is the same sheet (roll-down material) mounted onto a substrate of High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) and cork. The HDF is formaldehyde-free. Though the binder is not disclosed. The click-together has the advantage of not needing glue. See my review here.
You can use the sheets in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms if it’s properly installed, more details on that in the bathroom flooring post.
ii. Engineered Wood
Most brands of engineered wood floors now are zero-VOC or close to it, even if they are not marketed that way. They do have a little bit of glue in the substrate so the extremely sensitive would need to test it.
What to Look for
- A plywood or solid slat core
- A stain/varnish that is zero-VOC
The Substrate
Plywood cores have glue, often formaldehyde or PVA wood glue. But by the time this product gets to you, it technically is considered cured.
It’s only the extremely sensitive who should make sure this is good enough for you by testing it.
Some brands have solid slats as the base, which has very little off-gassing because there is less glue. There is more detail in my post on engineered wood flooring.
There are a few brands that use an HDF fibreboard base (which usually off-gasses a lot more, though brands like Kahrs are formaldehyde-free and PFAS-free) so check to see what the substrate is.
(The hybrid type described below has a PVC base.)
The Stain/Finish
Most finishes on engineered wood have no off-gassing or close to it. I look for water-based UV-cured polyurethane (or polyacrylic). This usually has aluminum oxide in it and it is very close to zero VOC.
There are also zero-VOC or close to zero-VOC oil-based finishes which are often UV-cured. The UV curing speeds up the off-gassing so that it is much faster than it would be if you applied it yourself. The chemically sensitive should test this and test the maintenance oils needed as it’s higher risk than the water-based finish.
Sometimes the stain has a bit of a VOC odor, but you will only know by getting samples yourself since all brands could qualify for the strictest certifications.
Kahrs and Stuga offer options without aluminum oxide or other metals in the finish and they share their test results.
Brands
There are many brands that are good, these are just a few examples. The engineered wood flooring post has more options, and the Substack article goes over 0-VOC brands.
- Kahrs (see my non-sponsored review here)
- Stuga (see my non-sponsored review here)
- Cali Floors Meritage – Oak (plywood base)
- Cali Floors Whiskey & Wine
- Shaw Castlewood – Hickory (plywood base)
- Shaw Albright – Oak (plywood base)
Vinyl-Wood Hybrid
A category of engineered wood that is actually a vinyl/wood hybrid has real wood on the top layer and vinyl-limestone composite as the base layer.
In most situations, engineered wood with a plywood or solid slat substrate is preferable. But there are reasons to use the hybrid.
This eliminates that pine/spruce/fir odor in engineered wood and also doesn’t have a discernible PVC odor/off-gassing to most people. It’s also waterproof. In many ways, it’s the best of both worlds.
It’s one of my top picks for a trailer or RV. (More trailer flooring options here).
Brands
- 1. An affordable wood/vinyl hybrid is Opti-Wood. You can find this at Home Depot (in Canada and the US). It’s well-priced, and I did not pick up off-gassing in the top layer in the samples I bought. The wood layer eliminates the higher off-gassing top layer of vinyl in LVP and it should prevent a lot of the leaching of plasticizers.
2. Raintree is a brand that has a high-quality wood top layer, with some higher-end looks. I have some samples, and like the other brands, the wood layer is very thin. From a distance, it’s hard to tell if these are real wood but underfoot, you can tell it definitely feels like real wood, not plastic.
More brands can be found here.
Installation
My post on underlayment goes into more detail on when to use each type.
iii. Healthy Carpet
For safe, non-toxic carpet, both natural fibers and synthetics can be healthy.
If you are interested in carpet, I have a whole post dedicated to this topic that goes into detail on brands, chemical treatments, and how the installation affects toxicity.
(I have a separate post devoted to non-toxic area rugs).
Non-Toxic Natural Fiber Carpet
1. Earth Weave – wool, no mothproofing, no other treatments, does contain latex. I always prefer undyed wool for the very sensitive.
2. Nature’s Carpet – wool, contains natural latex adhesive. The “dark green” line does not have mothproofing and uses undyed wool. The medium green line does not contain natural latex, which for me is a big plus, but it does contain mothproofing.
3. Seagrass – I really like seagrass carpet because of how it feels underfoot. The DMI brand makes one I like that is not dyed or treated with insecticides or other chemicals. It does contain natural latex.
Non-Toxic Synthetic Carpet
1. Home Fresh – One of my top picks for synthetic carpet (PET polyester) with a felt backing. It was extremely low in odor and is 0-VOC. It is PFAS-free they said in an email. This refer-a-friend program will get you $350 off.
2. FLOR – makes carpet tiles which can be arranged as rugs or wall-to-wall carpeting.
Their regular nylon lines have a different type of off-gassing odor than typical carpet, both less strong, and it did off-gas faster.
Commercial Grade Carpets
Low-VOC commercial carpet is harder to find than residential. I have reviewed and sniffed a few of the ones that claim to have the lowest VOC levels.
There are wool and synthetic commercial options reviewed in my dedicated carpet post.
Can Carpet Ever Be a Healthy Flooring?
Because carpet does collect dust, mold spores, pesticides, flame retardants, and all types of contaminants and allergens that ride on dust, a HEPA vacuum like the Nilfisk is essential for cleaning.
iv. Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a little complex as there are different materials, resins, and sealers involved. But there are systems that are zero-VOC and low-VOC.
The concrete post looks at this a little more.
v. Non-PVC Plastic Plank
The vast majority of rigid core click-together plastic flooring is luxury vinyl plank (LVP) which is PVC-based. (More on LVP in the last section of this article).
Inhaus Ceramin – Gallery, Sono Eclipse & Icon, are a PVC-free rigid core flooring made in Germany. It is made without phthalates or other plasticizers. That is huge, as plasticizers are the biggest chemical of concern in LVP floors. They also claim it’s formaldehyde-free and ultra low VOC.
Like LVP, it is waterproof and non-organic. I’ve seen a sample of the Sono Eclipse line and it looks and feels almost exactly like LVP.
Another company Hallmark Floors, makes a rigid glue-down plank made of polypropylene called Voyager. I could not pick up any off-gassing, and like other PP floors, it does not have any added plasticizer or chlorine and it does not contain recycled content.
HTMX makes a SRP TPU Plank Flooring which is made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and is free of plasticizers and red list chemicals. It has a slight rubber smell at first, which is distinct from vinyl plank but it goes down with a little time.
vi. Zero-VOC Resilient Flooring
Most sheet flooring is vinyl sheet which I find far too high in off-gassing.
Marmoleum, mentioned above, is one alternative type of resilient flooring that is healthy.
Recently though, there are a few other healthy additions in this category.
Kahrs makes three really great options. Xpression and Zero Tile are made of safer plastics – TPE and polyolefin (which in this case almost certainly means polyethylene and/or polypropylene). No plasticizers and no PVC.
Quartz tile, their stiffer flooring has a base of the mineral quartz and PVC, with no phthalates. It’s virtually odorless, even lower odor than LVP. Nothing like the usual vinyl rolls.
Another new healthy resilient flooring is Shaw Contract’s commercial bio-based polyurethane. It’s made of 90% natural oils (but not linseed) and minerals. It barely has an odor or any off-gassing. The backing contains polyethylene and fiberglass and gives off only a very slight odor.
A similar bio-based polyurethane product is Wineo’s Purline Organic Floor which I have been really impressed with. It’s very similar to Shaw Contract with almost no off-gassing. (They make a click-together version as well as sheet flooring).
You would have to check out the glues as well for each of the floors you are considering.
You can get a printer-optimized PDF version of this webpage article for $5. This contains the full article optimized for printing – with no ads, no extra white space, or blue text.
Includes two files, one with photos and one without.
3. Light Green (Low-VOC)
i. Laminate Flooring
Laminate is made of High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) and a printed image on top with a melamine coating.
All laminate floors in North America are considered low-VOC, but not all are the same.
Most brands use a formaldehyde-based adhesive in the HDF core. A few brands are formaldehyde-free.
My top pick is certainly the formaldehyde-free options that are ultra-low-VOC, and next up would be GreenGuard Gold certified brands.
The brands that are formaldehyde-free and ultra-low VOC are better than most of the expensive flooring options marketed as eco-friendly.
(Most brands can easily meet the other certification levels, so those do not help to distinguish between brands.)
Some lines are “waterproof” – they either have an extra component of wax on the tongue and groove parts, a plastic-like polystyrene added to the core or PFAS. I did not find these to be higher in off-gassing.
Installation
This type of flooring is usually “floating” – it doesn’t require adhesive during installation, which is a bonus.
My post on underlayment goes through the choices there.
ii. Cork
Cork, like wood, has naturally occurring odorants.
But with cork flooring, a resin (glue) is used to press and bind all the small pieces of cork together into flat sheets.
I have seen polyurethane glues used (which I find to have strong off-gassing that persists), polyethylene, and formaldehyde binders. Polyvinyl acetate can also be added.
An adhesive is also required either to glue it down (and there are zero-VOC glues for this) or, in the floating floors, it is usually glued to a fiberboard (HDF) substrate, which has its own off-gassing (usually formaldehyde).
Cork is finished with urethanes, acrylic, or PET, which are generally not going to off-gas once cured and are far less of a concern than the glues used to press the cork together.
Wicanders Wise Cork Inspire
I tested out the Wicanders Wise Cork Inspire (previously called Amorim Wise Cork Wise) flooring and I definitely think this is one of the healthiest brands out there.
I could pick up the off-gassing slightly (it’s not zero-VOC in my opinion, but it’s close). Many sensitive folks have used this and liked it.
It’s cork through and through – and it’s the only click-together option that is made like this.
Polyethylene is the main binder, but it also contains very small amount of formaldehyde. They have a Declare label and it is GreenGuard Gold.
Forna
Forna has some cork tiles from Cancork/icorkfloor that claim to be 0-VOC and be made without formaldehyde. Some selections say they are low-VOC so be sure to check.
These are glue-down tiles. The recommended glue is a 0-VOC water-based contact cement.
Other Brands
Most HDF is too high in formaldehyde off-gassing for me. Though some brands like Amorim/Wickanders Cork GO claim to be made without formaldehyde or polyurethane glues even in the HDF core. And this brand is quite low odor.
Please see my article on non-toxic cork flooring for more detail.
Floors with some Cork
Some flooring that has a cork core and laminate on top can sometimes be referred to as cork flooring even though it has a laminate or plastic top.
Related Post: Non-Toxic Gym Flooring
iii. Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo requires resin or adhesives to hold the strands together, most have a substrate and then a finish.
There are many that are GreenGuard certified for low emissions and some that have extremely low formaldehyde levels.
This wood is known to be problematic in that it can shrink, expand, and do poorly with water/moisture/spills.
It doesn’t do well in high humidity (warp) or very low humidity (crack).
Formaldehyde is a typical glue in bamboo flooring. If it doesn’t have formaldehyde it will have isocyanate-based glue (like MDI), or soy flour polyamide-epichlorohydrin (PAE) resin. The bamboo is also treated with borates.
The finish is usually a UV-cured urethane acrylate finish containing aluminum oxide.
My top brands are ones with very low levels of formaldehyde which you can find here.
iv. Magnetic Ceramic Tiles
I tested Kablan’s magnetic ceramic tiles. These are ceramic tiles with a magnetic backing.
The other side to the magnet is an underlayment that is glued down to the floor.
I found that the magnetic backing components are rubber and did have a moderately strong smell, though you may not be able to smell them once the floor is installed.
Since I tested them, they have made these tiles lighter in weight. You may have areas where you want tiles that you can pull up. It’s a cool idea, I quite liked them.
v. Luxury Vinyl Plank
There are three main types of vinyl flooring – vinyl that comes in a roll (that is way too high in off-gassing for me), vinyl plank, and multilayer luxury vinyl plank.
Vinyl plank and luxury vinyl plank/tile are extremely low in VOCs and off-gassing but they do have the problem of semi-VOCs – the plasticizers.
Most of it is phthalate-free now – though phthalates were replaced with alternate plasticizers.
The most common plasticizer used now is bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP).
A dedicated post on vinyl floors goes through how to pick the cleanest type of vinyl flooring and which brands I think are the best.
Multilayer LVP (Click-Together)
This type has a core (stone polymer composite – SPC, or wood polymer composite – WPC), vinyl top, and often an underlayment. It is click-together.
The SPC core is a mix of PVC/vinyl, limestone, and plasticizers. WPC cores can have real wood or plastic instead of limestone and have a foaming agent.
The vinyl floor post goes into more detail on what is in all the layers.
LVP (and LVT) brands are very similar, there are only five main differences outlined below:
Five Things to Look at When Choosing Safer LVP
- Double-check to make sure it’s virgin vinyl (not recycled vinyl)
- Look for phthalate-free
- I have a slight preference for SPC over WPC (usually slightly lower in off-gassing)
- If you want 0-VOC line see those here, but they are not my preference (which I explain in Substack)
- Check the underlayment, you may choose to avoid cork (because it’s higher in off-gassing, and EVA as it could have phthalates)
Top Brand:
- Cali Floors Longboard 9″ LVP, & Builders Choice LVP
- ✓ Virgin vinyl ✓ Phthalate-free ✓ SPC core
More brand options in the post on vinyl floors as well as a closer look into the plasticizers and contaminants like metals.
Cost Comparison of Green Flooring 2021 (USD)
- Wood $8 – 10 / sq ft including installation
- Polished concrete is $8 – 15 / sq ft for residential
- Stain and sealed concrete – materials $1 / sq ft (unless you are pouring the concrete or have lots of prep)
- Tiles are usually $8 – 10 / sq ft but it depends on the tiles (tiles come in a wide range of costs) and prep of subfloor/installation difficulty
- Marble floor material costs are $10 – $20 / sq ft (specialty marbles can go up to $40 per square foot). Labor is an additional $3 to $7 / sq ft
- Engineered Wood – Materials $3 – 12 / sq ft, labor $3 – 10 / sq ft
- Marmoleum – Materials $4.50 – 5 / sq ft, labor $1 – 4 / sq ft
- Wool Carpet 5-10$ / sq ft (see article for full cost comparison of wool carpets)
- LVP:
- Cali Floors – under $3.30 – 5 / sq ft, labor about $3 – 4 / sq ft for click
Home Depot brands $1 – 3 / sq ft
- Cali Floors – under $3.30 – 5 / sq ft, labor about $3 – 4 / sq ft for click
- Laminate:
- Home Decorators Collection $1.30 – 2 / sq ft, labor $3 – 4 / sq ft
Trafic Master $0.50 – 2 / sq ft
Pergo $2 – 3 / sq ft
- Home Decorators Collection $1.30 – 2 / sq ft, labor $3 – 4 / sq ft
- Cork $8 – 10 / sq ft including installation
Corinne Segura is an InterNACHI-certified Healthy Homes Inspector with certifications in Building Biology, Healthier Materials and Sustainable Buildings, and more. She has 10 years of experience helping others create healthy homes. You can book a consult here.
Join the top Substack on healing from MCS and mold!
Robin Green
Corinne, this is exactly the kind of ‘decision fatigue’ reducer people need—flooring choices can make recovery feel impossible. I love that you frame this as repeatable answers to recurring questions. For people who are already depleted, having a ‘good enough’ shortlist is huge. Quick question: when someone is prioritizing both mold prevention and chemical sensitivity, what’s the most common tradeoff you see them regret later?
John
Hi
I clicked on your post about underpayments and it takes me to Amazon for a silicone underpayment.
What would be the best underpayment for pre-finished hardwood for second floor bedroom. My concerns are more for dust and mold but want something in case I have chemical sensitivities.
Thank you
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
that would be one of the best ones for solid hardwood, the article on underlayments goes over them
John
Thank you. Better than Rosin paper? I couldn’t find the article.
Linda
I am trying to install flooring in three bedrooms and a den on top floor of the house. My husband has recently been diagnosed with autoimmune Disease, and we want to reduce toxins in the flooring we choose. (I had cork in mind.) My question is, assuming we will have to move and downsize in a year or two, which flooring would you steer me too? Both for resale and fewer toxins?
Michelle Childs-Healy
Thank you so much for your detailed and thorough review! I was floored…lol..to read how many products are still made with harmful chemicals that are known health irritants! I so appreciate your time in putting this together with the links! It saved me tons of research time and I learned way more than I ever would have on my own! Thanks again!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
You’re very welcome
celine
RE: underlayments // underfloor heating
Hi ! I’m on a concrete slab from the 50s and considering underfloor heating prior to putting limestone tile.
Is this a good idea ? or should I skip it because in order for underfloor radiant heating to be efficient I need to put 1/4 inch thermal barrier like Polypropylene synthetic cork which would basically be a vapor barrier.
This is a single level house with a nice thick concrete slab.
Alternative: skip the insulation and just loose energy on the heating that would also heat up the slab underneath
Thank you for your work 🙂
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I think there are some types that would keep the system vapor open and driable to the inside but I have not looked at that in great detail because I don’t cover HVAC
Stacy
Hi Corinne!
Wondering if you could point me in the right direction for what would be least toxic for the floor heat register covers? We have chosen our Low VOC LVP flooring but need to put down new heat register covers. Any suggestions? Thanks so much!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
metal, maybe wood depending on finish
Stacy
Ok, thank you! The ones we have are metal just wasn’t sure if the coating on most were something to be concerned about or not. Especially since they get heated up a lot more during the cooler months! 🙂
Sarah
Hi Corinne. Hopefully you could advise re laminate floor. The laminate floor that my partner wants to put down contains formaldehyde. The complany advised that the used amino resins are melamine-formaldehyde (95%) and urea formaldehyde (5%) resins. According to them, they achieve 0.01 ppm which is approximately 0.0123 mg/m³ at standard conditions (25°C and 1 atm) – you are allowed up to 0.1ppm. The concentration of the emitted 12mm products is low & TVOC (= total of ALL VOC’s emitted) is at 85 μg/m3 (0.085mg is 1m3 of air). This is classified as a commercial floor and has water resistance for 72 hrs due to a chemical being applied in the locking system but they don’t want to disclose what it is (they said it is not PFAS). Could this level of formaldehyde and the water treatment be safe for playroom & bedrooms? For how long will the floor offgass? I read somewhere else that laminate is not advised at all as a non-toxic floor due to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process and I am concerned because my kids eat on the floor. Thank you
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Hi, please see the article on laminate flooring
Sarah
Corinne,
Apologies, I did see your article about maninate flooring but I didn’t understand it. I don’t really understand the number I have been given. Is 0.0123 mg/m³ formaldehyde emissions and 85 μg/m3 TVOC good or bad considering that there is urea formaldehyde in the product? Does the dioxide coat blocking the off gassing? What they can be using instead of PFAS for a water resistance of 72 hrs that they don’t want to disclose?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
The additives for making it “waterproof” are in the article dedicated to laminate. There you can also see how that compares to greenguard gold VOC and formaldehyde levels and there is another article for a fuller comparison to other relevant formaldehyde levels
Sarah
Hi Corinne. Hopefully you could advise re laminate floor. The laminate floor that my partner wants to put down contains formaldehyde. The complany advised that the used amino resins are melamine-formaldehyde (95%) and urea formaldehyde (5%) resins. According to them, they achieve 0.01 ppm which is approximately 0.0123 mg/m³ at standard conditions (25°C and 1 atm) – you are allowed up to 0.1ppm. The concentration of the emitted 12mm products is low & TVOC (= total of ALL VOC’s emitted) is at 85 μg/m3 (0.085mg is 1m3 of air). This is classified as a commercial floor and has water resistance for 72 hrs due to a chemical being applied in the locking system but they don’t want to disclose what it is (they said it is not PFAS). Could this level of formaldehyde and the water treatment be safe for playroom & bedrooms? For how long will the floor offgass? I read somewhere else that laminate is not advised at all as a non-toxic floor due to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process and I am concerned because my kids eat on the floor. Thank you
Chamoon
My aplogies….Thought it didn’t went through. Sent the same msg the second time by mistake.
Chamoon
Thank you for replying.
I’m having trouble deciding what floor to choose for my rental apartment. I have non electric floor heating. It is heated using water tubes.
I feel ceramic tiles would be a safer choice but when I eventually leave the apartment then I would have to hire someone have the tiles removed.
Hardwood and nature stones are out of my budget. Personally I don’t like vinyl.
If I would to choose low VOC laminate it would require special underfloor (suitable for floor heating) those are made from PE foam (polyethylene). Is that safe? Are there safer options? Laminate would be easier to remove once I leave. But I worry about what might leach out from it in combination with underfloor when heating the apartment.
Chamoon
Thank you for sharing.
If a particular brand offers ceramic floor tiles that are free VOC’s but it possibly do contain heavy metals like lead or cadmium. Would those leach out effecting the indoor air quality when used with floor heating?
I read somewhere that it’s only dangerous when you cut the tiles.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
only when you cut, demolish
Chamoon
Thank you for replying.
I’m having trouble deciding what floor to choose for my rental apartment. I have non electric floor heating. It is heated using water tubes.
I feel ceramic tiles would be a safer choice but when I eventually leave the apartment then I would have to hire someone have the tiles removed.
Hardwood and nature stones are out of my budget. Personally I don’t like vinyl.
If I would to choose low VOC laminate it would require special underfloor (suitable for floor heating) those are made from PE foam (polyethylene). Is that safe? Are there safer options? Laminate would be easier to remove once I leave. But I worry about what might leach out from it in combination with underfloor when heating the apartment.
KELLY
This is amazing!! Any tips for putting engineered hardwood or laminate over sealed/finished concrete? We want to avoid mold but also keep things as clean as possible. Thank you!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
recommendations are here https://corinnesegura.substack.com/p/mold-preventative-flooring
John
This guide is very useful, thank you for sharing this.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
thank you
Kim
Hi,
What are your thoughts on Coretec LVP?? And CA Classic Engineered Hardwood?
Thank you!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I talk about coretec in the article on vinyl plank, I also have an article on engineered wood that goes into detail on all the types.
billie fowler
Hello,
I have asthma and many allergies. I am replacing my kitchen floors that have buckled. I have prefinished wood, with fiber board underlayment. NOT Plywood. Because of the door jams and cabinet base, I must stay at the 5/16″ thick. What I would prefer to have a more solid look rather than a wood look. Marmoleum was out of my price . and might smell like lensed oil. Thank You. I’m getting desperate!..billiefowler@bellsouth.net
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
This if the overview flooring post with every non-toxic flooring type. and for each type I also have an article that goes more into detail.
Maureen E Lipp-Schoonmaker
Hello,
I need a flooring that is completely latex free, both in the product itself, as well as the installation, as I have a severe latex allergy.
I am concerned with porcelain tiles (wood look), because the grout has to be resealed yearly, which would be difficult in the area we are thinking.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Grout doesn’t need to be sealed at all for tile.
al boehm
If there is a safe (health) laminate flooring, what is it?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
yes in my view. see the article on laminate flooring
Tara
You don’t include Green Building supply water-proof hardwood in your list and was curious as to why. I’m thinking about purchasing floors from them – here is the link, and wondering if you have any thoughts/knowledge of their product. It says VOC free, sustainbly sourced wood, etc., but curious why you don’t have on your list and if you think it is okay.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I talk about valinge engineered wood in my post on engineered wood floors
John
Hi
We have dogs and I am down to choosing between prefinished red oak or the Shaw brand plank. I know the plank is better concerning pee and getting wet etc but it also looks more commercial. which floor would be healthier in and off itself (material wise)?
John
Also, have the non-pvc/plastisized planks that you mentioned been studied for health effects?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Yeah we generally know quite a bit about those plastics
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
prefinished solid or engineeered? which shaw plank?
John
Prefinished – Bruce solid red oak UV cured (wood sourced in North Carolina)
The Shaw in the grain or Cali builders choice brand
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I would definitely go for wood over vinyl for sure.
al boehm
Thank you for the great service you have done for the concerned consumer. Without your research and dedication families would be poisoning themselves while the completely unconcerned (anything for a profit) manufactures would get rich at the consumer health expense.
Jennifer B
The waterproof Cork that has formaldehyde and BPA- would the BPA be in the core or the surface treatment?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
The top layer is BPA free, and I think that info is outdated. they renamed the product and the latest Declare label does not list BPA. https://declare.living-future.org/products/cork-flooring-floating-subertech-with-non-pvc-film-wise-wood-srt
Jennifer B
Thank you- I checked and that label is for the wood look cork. The waterproof cork-look has a different declare label that shows BPA..
Jess
What type of flooring do you recommend in a basement to prevent mold? We have carpet now and want to select a material that will not encourage mold.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Something that can dry to the inside, outlined here https://corinnesegura.substack.com/p/mold-preventative-flooring
John
Do you know anything about quick step studio waterprooof laminated floor? It’s made in USA, but I don’t know what it’s made of or if it’s safe as hard wood
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
formaldehyde adhesive in the wood fiber core is the norm, see the article on laminate flooring for some of the additives used in waterproof lines
John
Thanks!
All In All Flooring Accessories
This is such a comprehensive guide to non-toxic flooring—thank you for breaking down the options so thoroughly! I especially appreciated the categorisation into “dark green,” “medium green,” and “light green” tiers. It makes it much easier to understand the trade-offs between purity, cost, and practicality for different needs.
The detailed insights into hardwood flooring stood out, especially the tips on selecting VOC-free finishes and adhesives. It’s great to see sustainable and eco-friendly options, like polished concrete and Marmoleum, highlighted alongside the pros and cons of popular materials like engineered wood and LVP. The focus on testing for chemical sensitivities is also an excellent reminder to tailor choices to individual needs.
I found the section on tiles particularly informative—the guidance on lead testing and sealing natural stones with walnut oil was fascinating and practical. The cost comparison at the end is incredibly helpful for budgeting—it’s rare to see such a detailed breakdown.
Thank you for providing such a well-rounded resource for health-conscious homeowners. It’s clear this guide will help anyone make informed flooring decisions!
John
I was going to install Bruce flooring that has been uv cured. One of my turns of the use of aluminum oxide to finish. Is that toxic or safe?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I consider it safe since it’s so long lasting
John
Is NuCore PureaLife safe?
John
Hi
Do you know if NuCore by floor and Decore is non-toxic?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
It’s a typical LVP. See the article on vinyl flooring for more info.
James Pratt
FYI: The “Duravana from LL Floors (GreenGuard Gold)” went 404.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
thanks, their whole website is messed up. They also said they were going out of business then right after that got bought back. So I’m not sure what’s going on with them.
John
Hi
What’s healthier, prefinished hardwood or site finished hardwood?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
pre-finished UV cured polyurethane is usually already offgassed so can be preferred, others prefer natural finishes which are done on site
John
Do people with chemical and mold sensitivity do better with white oak or red oak?
Thanks
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
depends on the person
Autumn
Does the aluminum-oxide infused polyethylene coating for hardwood release aluminum? Mostly, I’m wondering if we try to avoid aluminum in our home if we should avoid the aluminum-oxide infused coatings?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
it takes decades to start to see wear on it but in theory yes
Meredith
Hi Corrine,
Thanks for all of your resources– they are so helpful and appreciated.
I saw in this older post your posted inhaus Ceramin ( pvc free) in your most recent posts I did not see this brand. Do you still recommend?
Do you like lvp over everstrand synthetic carpet ( by Mowhawk) for a basemet?
Thank you so much!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
inhaus is in this article, yes recommend. for basement see youtube
Meredith
Thanks! so what is your top vote this or lvp?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
i would not use LVP
Hasan Kozan
Hi Corrine,
We are thinking of installing Amorium cork into our walk out level which is a concrete slab. I am starting to think this is not a good idea due to having to apply a vapor barrier? If so are my only choices tile or carpet?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
tile, polished concrete with rugs, potentially marmoleum, potentially carpet..
Greg
can you recommend any nontoxic padded floor tiles
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
like EVA tiles? they are in the article called non toxic low VOC gym flooring
Kathleen Ashcroft
I am renting a basement/ground level apartment with a low pile carpet over a cement slab. I would like to replace the carpet with non toxic flooring but am concerned about removing the carpet ( added exposure to dust, chemicals) . Can flooring be placed over the carpet or will there be a mold issue? I would like to know the least toxic way to create a healthier environment since I have multiple allergies and sensitivities.
Thank you
Kathy Ashcroft
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
you have to remove the carpet, look at Cheryl Ciecko’s carpet removal video
Bree
Hi Corinne,
Thank you so much for your informative articles. This company posts the independent testing results for all their LVP/LVT products, but I can’t tell whether the results are useful. For example, for emissions, are the correct components being measured? Here is an example of one of the result sheets: https://xlflooring.ca/product/western-pursuit/
From the results, would you consider these to be healthy options?
Thanks again,
B
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
yes those are proper VOC and semi VOC results. I’ve never seen anything listed as laminate PVC though as laminate is the opposite of LVP. Is this vinyl all the way through? Does it have that grey SPC core that I talk about in the article on LVP? I also would not go with recycled plastic personally – see the article on vinyl flooring.
Bree
Thank you so much, Corinne, for the quick reply (which I didn’t get an email notification for, for some reason so sorry for the delay!). I assumed that laminate PVC was simply PVC, but it is confusing. I don’t believe it has a core at all being the resilient, thinner kind. Given that the test results are “0” VOC/semi, would the recycled component be ok in this case?
I was also considering Greenguard Gold laminates and PVC’s, as well as Mohawk Revwood but it concerns me that Revwood doesn’t have GreenGuard Gold certification; I would be more comfortable going with a GG Gold laminate (though according to your articles Mohawk is the best despite no GGG?).
As for PVC laminate vs normal laminate, this is all I can find:
Composition and Material:
• PVC Laminate: PVC laminate is composed of multiple layers of polyvinyl chloride, a synthetic material known for its moisture resistance and cost-effectiveness.
• Normal Laminate: Normal laminate, often high-pressure laminate (HPL) or low-pressure laminate (LPL), is crafted from layers of paper or fabric impregnated with resin and subjected to heat and pressure.
Thanks again,
Bree
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
You have to choose what you are comfortable with after reading the articles on vinyl flooring and laminate flooring. I would go with Mohawk lines of laminate over LVP. GGG is not something I go by or even really trust. I would not use recycled plastic.
Bree
Hi Corinne,
Thanks again for your guidance. Thought I’d share this option I found, in case you are interested. 100% PVC-free, resin fused plant fiber; core includes 66% plant based materials. The other 34% is “other plant resins” according to the rep. Would you have any concerns?
https://www.nextfloor.net/botanica
Many thanks, if you can find the time to reply. If not, I really appreciate all your other guidance and the blog is a fantastic resource.
-Bree
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I don’t know what that is! Could be a laminate with some plastic added like options in my laminate post.
Dave
Hi Corinne, are you able to help with recommendations for engineered floor brands available in Canada? Most of the ones in your blog are only available in the US. I’d prefer the plywood or SPF obviously if possible. Looking to replace carpet and I have become very chemically sensitive in the last year. Thank you.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
I don’t have a list of Canadian brands but they will have the same construction and finishes as the American brands
Meri
Any comments on the Mohawk Pure-Tech Avery Grove collection?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/01/laminate-flooring-what-does-it-offgas.html
Golfy Gadgets
Thank you for sharing such nice information. I like it very much.
Andrea
Do you know anything about this wood filler?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C1S913S4?th=1
Brand: A-HEYIDA Wood Filler
They claim this wood filler is safe, made from non-toxic and natural ingredients, and is not harmful to your health. Yet, they refuse to list the ingredients, or reply to my emails requesting to know what’s in this product.
I appreciate your help.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
no i dont know that one, but i mention two good ones in this article.
Anya
Hi Corinne,
We are looking at pre-finished real hardwood and the one company we love ‘Superior Hardwood Flooring’ made in Canada, state on their site:
‘Allergy sufferers know that flooring can be a hotbed for bacteria, mold, and other allergens. Water Clear™ Finish is designed to be hypoallergenic and has anti-microbial properties; aiding in the prevention of growth from microorganisms including bacteria, fungi and molds.’
Is this something that should be avoided with small children that will be spending a lot of time on these floors??
Thank you in advance!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Depends on what the antimicrobial additive is, it might be totally fine it might not be.
Corinne Segura
thanks i will call them to see what’s going on there. Maybe this only applies to the direct lines from Mohawk like pergo and revwood
Barri Looke
Hi, have a question about our UV oil cured engineered flooring by Hallmark. We’ve had it about 5 years. Have always noticed a strange plastic like smell in the clothes in the closet – wood flooring in there – the smell is similar to when you open a new shower curtain. Hallmark states that their oil has a proprietary ingredient. Do you know anything about their flooring as far as VOC and safety. Also has anyone else had this experience? Thank you
Laura
Hi Corinne,
We just purchased a home and I’m having a very difficult time trying to decide the safest flooring. The home had recent mold remediation and a large portion of carpet etc was torn out in the bedroom side of the house. It is a slab home. I’m hesitant to put carpet directly over the slab again. I also would love hardwood flooring but again I am concerned with the mold issue. I have considered staining the concrete but carpet is much more comfortable etc for bedrooms and I’m a little concerned about the hard surface everywhere for my kids. Also it would be very cold in the winter. Any suggestions? The homes does seem to be prone to moisture retention so I’m doing all I can to take care of that so there won’t be a problem in the future.
Corinne
It depends on the exact cause of the water damage and if it’s been fixed. I would recommend consulting with Cheryl Ciecko until it’s 100% clear.
Laura
How would I get in contact with her?
Thank you!
Jennie Hunter
What flooring would you use for a church nursery. Flooring for babies through age 5
Corinne
Marmoleum would be excellent. There are other options in this article.
Jenny
Dear Corinne, I love your research and work! I wondered if you had reviewed the fairly new Kahrs Aware collection of bio-based vinyl free flooring? It looks good – 7 certifications. Links below. Best, Jenny
https://www.kahrs.com/en/inspiration/campagins-and-news/aware-collection/
https://www.kahrs.com/en/how-to/technical-documentation-vinyl-floors/
Corinne
It’s mostly falls into the laminate category because it has a HDF core so the offgassing is most likely to be formaldehyde there though it could be formaldehyde free. Cork layer offgasses significantly too. Top layer is not actually disclosed but it sounds like PET which is good, no offgassing there.
JoBan
Hi Corinne,
Thank you very much for this amazing and helpful article! I’m in the UK and so am trying to find the equivalent flooring certifications you mention, but it’s tricky. Do you know whether the QuickStep laminates are acceptable please? And also whether the Forbo vinyls that arent linoleum (sphera energetic for instance) are too? Many thanks again! (Links below)
https://www.quick-step.co.uk/en-gb/sustainable-flooring
https://www.forbo.com/flooring/en-gl/products/homogeneous-vinyl/sphera-energetic/sphera-energetic-alias/bopn28#51242
Jay
Hi! Useful website!
I am trying to put floor in the basement. I want to make sure that whatever I put down does not swell and is waterproof. That means any wood or engineered are out. That just about leaves linoleum and vinyl flooring. Am I missing something, or is Marmoleum literally the only choice for something not made out of plastic or something else potentially harmful?
Thanks!
Corinne
ideally it can dry to the inside, so tile or polished concrete, but if your slab is very dry and you use the proper vapor barrier based on how dry your slab is then Marmoleum is a good choice.
Jay
Thanks! My hope was to have some padding underneath the floor as I’d like to use the basement as a gym, but also have my kiddo down there too. Plus laying that much tile down (~1000 sq ft) might be rough. I was really considering LVP because it seems perfect for the space, but I am concerned about the plasticizers, what with all the “98% of us have plastic in our bloodstream” stuff coming out. At a bit of a loss, tbh.
DD
Jay, what did you come up with? It sounds like a year ago, you were at the exact same place I am now with the exact same thoughts and conclusions. Did you find a solution for your gym/kid friendly basement floor that was okay?
Maria Svoisky Goldberg
Your site is very helpful. Thank you.
Would love to hear your shouts on Craft floors. They seem to be the most delight with certifications. (greenguard gold, red list etc)
Thank you!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
looks fine, see the article on engineered wood if you want more info
Emily
We have to replace our kitchen floor. My biggest concern is selecting a material that is safest for water, and mold prevention. I’m leaning towards tile with Schluter ditra underneath, but are there other options that you think are safe in a kitchen?
Corinne
tile is the best option
Emily
Thank you! Do you have any thoughts about the waterproofing layer underneath the tile? Ditra is what we are considering.
Corinne
see the post on grout and thinset or the post on underlayment
Gera N
Dear corrinne,please help e I am clueless and helpless .I had a painter paint interior doors and skirting board in march in a rented property with benjamin moore aura satinwood paint.Unknown to me,this paint contains a mildewcide called 2 methyl 4 isothiazolin 3.I am chemically sensitive and right after the painters had finished I started to experience burning sensation on my skin,difficulty breathing,chest pain,made an alredy exisiting body twitching which I do not know yet whats causing it worse and I became very unwell for almost two weeks.I have since been sleeping and living in my lounge for almost 4 months and each time I go upstairs,the symptoms get worse and it has made my chemical sensitivity now worse.I used to be able too paint with dulux matt at 1% voc with a gas mask and can keep away from the painted area for 2 weeks and it should be fine afterwards.I had to remove all the doors and packed them in a room with the doors closed but I am now wondering where to go from here and how to solve this problem.I feel helpless ,please can you or anyone help me on how to get rid of this paint or what to do.
I have thought about getting rid of the doors,door frames and skirtings but this is a rental and I cannot afford thousands of pounds to replace them and also cannot stand.Pls help me please!!!!I have children too
LL
Never use Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams or any of them. ECOS paint is your best bet. I’m sorry you went through this. Not sure if there’s anything you can do about it now except to allow it to gas off. I feel for you as I understand the stress and sensitivity. If it’s rental…I would move asap, but that’s me.
Topnotch Interiors & Flooring
This is super useful! Great Blogs
RA
Hi Corinne,
Thank you for so much useful information. We have selected a prefinished solid hardwood floor and turns out their stain is solvent based. It is polyureathane UV cured but not water based. I understand that the coating on top of prefinished floors blocks off VOC’s and offgassing but your article specifically mentions water based polyureathane. Would it still be advisable to select solvent based prefinsihed hardwood floors?
Please please let me know.
Corinne
It depends on the brand and which solvent based finish they use plus how complete the UV curing is, which can bring down or eliminate the offgassing from a solvent based stain. There is going to be variation here by brand. This does not block odors from below like water-based aluminum oxide coatings do.
Brian Luenow
Hi,
Thanks for this article. The link for the declare label for the Amorim Wise cork flooring isnt taking me anywhere. I contacted them and after a bit of pushing they confirmed the formaldehyde, but said there was no BPA. I’d like to take a look at the declare label, so can you check the link and if it has changed can you send the updated link that works please?
Thank you
Corinne
looks like they didn’t renew their declare label for 2023, I’ve linked to the wayback machine where you can view the old one.
RA
Is it possible to be EPA TSCA Title VI compliant and use Urea-formaldehyde resin in the construction of the particleboard? OR be CARB ULEF (Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde) certified and use Urea-formaldehyde resin.
Thanks!
Jennifer
Hi Corrine,
Thank you so much for all of this information. It is really helpful! I need to install new flooring in a room that has glued down vinyl tiles. I am down to either getting engineered hardwood with a plywood core vs a hybrid floor of a SPC core with a wood veneer (Opti-wood). The hybrid floor can be installed over top of the vinyl floor while the engineered hardwood floor will require pulling the glued down vinyl up which will be quite the effort and more expensive. From an indoor health perspective, is the improvement in overall chemical and VOC exposure significant enough to warrant opting for the more expensive engineered hardwood option? Or does the hybrid option represent a great value/option that is overall safe for my young family? Thanks again!
Corinne
VOC wise there isn’t really a difference. The only downside to hybrid is the plasticizers in the core. They might be blocked from leaching out by the top layer of wood. The post on engineered wood talks about this.
Jennifer
Thank you!!
Emily
Hi Corinne,
Curious to know your thoughts on “thermal treatments” or fumed/smoked reactive stain treatments on engineered hardwood. Do you know if this is just a heat treatment or if there are potentially hazardous chemicals used in the process?
Thank you!
Corinne
if fumed with ammonia outside the house, this is safe once dried, no residual ammonia. If you want to fume it yourself use the Rubio Monocoat non ammonia, no VOC fumed product. Though they don’t say exactly what is in it.
Emily
Thank you very much!
B2B spa in pune
good sources
Steven
The Marmoleum flooring which is glued down your wrote has isothiazolinones (which I reacted to on patch testing). Since the click Marmoleum has unknown binding to the HDF, could that binding (a glue?) also potentially have isothiazolinones?
Corinne
isothiazolinones are almost always a preservative in liquids, I’ve never seen them in a non liquid building product/material but if you have a severe allergy you should contact the company and ask them and also be sure to see a sample of the product (the samples on the website are just of the top layer).
Steven
Thank you, I contacted them and will update here with any new information.
Jeessica
I just had a concrete flooring company here to discuss polishing the basement floor but am not confident I’ll get the look I’m going for.
I came across an article about limewashing the concrete floor and sealing with polycrylic. Limewash allows for breathing of the materials (I limewashed our brick outside so not to damage it like paint will do). Any thoughts? I need to make sure the concrete can breathe but is also durable and stain resistant.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
i haven’t heard of that before. Limewash is not durable to foot traffic at all so you would be dependant on that topcoat to fully stay intact and protect it. All topcoats are semi-breathable. I would not do that with limewash but look in the post on concrete stains and sealers for better options.
Nat
Thanks, I find your webpage extremely useful, even if I live in an area where there are different brands available. I would be very interested to hear your opinion on microcement.
RK
Hi. I am currently looking for hardwood for a house remodel. I am chemically sensitive. I found a company whose hardwoods are greenguard gold certified and no VOC. However, they use a soy/plant based ingredient in their finish. Typcially I would think this is good, but soy is sometimes referred to as an endocrine distruptor. Would that be an issue in a floor finish
Thank you for all of your information!
Corinne
Hi, soy can be used an in input to making bio-based polyurethane finishes In this format the final product is not a soy molecule but polyurethane. As for the estrogen effects I believe you would have to eat soy.
RK
Thanks. That’s what I thought. How do you feel about the bio based polyurethane?
Corinne
Its not clear that the end molecule is any different
RK
Trying to find a brand of solid hardwood flooring that does not use aluminum oxide in their UV cured urethane finish. I am not having luck. Do you know of any?
Corinne
yes there is one in the post on engineered wood
RK
Thank you. I am looking for solid not engineered. Very hard to find.
Corinne
oh, in that case I’d finish them in house.
LL
I’m looking for the same thing RK. Have you found a company yet who sells natural oil prefinished solid hardwood?
Anya
Hi RK, is this product by chance Mercier hardwood flooring? If not do you mind sharing what it is? I’m struggling with finding a product that does not contain antimicrobials and came across Mercier.
Carol
Trying to decide between Pergo laminate (no certification, but read your post on laminate floors (that Pergo used to be Green Gold certified )and a Green Guard certified LVP, Thoughts?
Carol
**Also looking at a Green Guard certified laminate along with the Pergo laminate and the Green Guard LVP. Thoughts?
Corinne
LVP has extremely low offgassing, it’s much lower than Green Guard Gold it seems to me. Laminate is much higher offgassing.
Unknown
Hi! We are trying to replace our very old carpet in our three small bedrooms. We’re currently looking at the SONO Eclipse flooring. I don’t really know what they mean by mineral powder core. Somehow, that allows my brain to think of lead and other heavy metals. Thoughts? It’s a really good option for us since I don’t think we can afford wood. Thanks for your help!
Corinne
it’s probably calcium carbonate
Unknown
Do you know how they achieve their waterproofing? Thank you!
Corinne
it’s a plastic and mineral mix, the plastic makes it waterproof
Rob
HI Corinne!
Do you know anything about laminate flooring from Quickstyle, looking at the Lumina or Great Lakes lines.
Looking for a good non toxic option for my off grid tiny home!
Thank you!
Corinne
check out the laminate post to read about the ingredients
Unknown
They told us it’s “ceramic powder” ♀️…so I’m still not entirely sure.
But yes, no Pfoa chemicals or any chemicals added.
Thank you for the info!
Corinne
PFAS are not added to flooring. The mineral is encapsulated in the plastic so I would consider it safe through if you do produce dust when cutting it it should be carefully cleaned.
Daniel
Hi Corinne!
Did you end up receiving those Sono Eclipse samples? What is your impression of them? Mainly along the lines of durability / scratch and chip resistance, etc. Can you share your thoughts?
Thanks!
Corinne
I have a sample of Sono eclipse but I’ve not put it to any durability tests.
JGA
Hi there,
First of all, I want to thank you for going into so much detail about health promoting choices. This is great. This is my first time commenting here and I was wondering what you thought about Karndean? I live in the United Kingdom and they are a LVT brand. On their website they mention multiple accolades and that:
“The key raw material in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is salt, and PVC is the second most widely used polymer in building and construction and the same trusted material used in vital medical equipment, including heart and lung bypass tubing.
Karndean floors are free from BPA, phthalates and formaldehyde.
Our products are neither carcinogenic nor do they contain raw materials which are reprotoxic or endocrine disrupting; and therefore, do not require warning labels in the United States (Prop 65).”
Would you ever consider giving them a go? I ask because we are between Karndean and hardwood floors. The latter, based on your website seem the best option, but they also have formaldehyde emissions (though quite low).
Thank you for whatever advice you can provide and I hope you are able to keep up this great work.
Corinne
same as the US
this post goes over risks https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/07/choosing-a-non-toxic-vinyl-plank-floor.html
Cathy S.
Hi Corinne! I’m looking for a floor covering to put in my chicken coop for ease of cleaning & reduce wood rot. I’m trying to raise chickens in as much of a non-toxic environment as possible since I’ll be eating their eggs. I avoid phthalates, BPA, heavy metals as much as I can. I will be covering the flooring with shredded hemp, which mixed w the chicken poop will become my garden compost… another reason to aim for non-toxic. I wish there was a Greenguard Gold listing that listed products, but I suppose that would be a lot to manage. I’ve looked at linoleum floors, vinyl floors, etc. I’d love to find something that had a sticking back that wouldn’t require glue. Chicken coop companies use High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), which they describe as “a USDA, FDA, and NSF food safe approved product for the entire deep litter system and egg hutch”. Any thoughts on this material? Thanks in advance for any recs or info you can share!
Corinne
I have no problem with HDPE in a chicken coop
Cathy S.
Thanks!
flooringmom
You mentioned isothiazolinones in the 2023 article.
I actually have an allergy to them (MI & MCI). I never thought about them in my flooring. Can you direct me to where to find that level of ingredients for flooring products?
Due to a variety of factors (pricing, color, location), we are probably using LVL in one room. Most of our house is hardwoods that only need refinished at some point but this is an odd room that used to be concrete.
It seems every option has pros & cons unfortunately 🙁
flooringmom
that should be LVP (sorry for the typo)
Corinne
LVP can have antimicorbials in the top layer or in the underlayment. They usually don’t list these ingredients out so be sure to test samples.
William Gossard
Corinne,
after reading the comment about allergies to MCI/MI I had to interject in hopes of some guidance. MCI is prevalent in glue and adhesives. Not from the standpoint of gluing down the floor but rather what glue Manufacturer’s use to make the floor under pressure and heat. I have just found out I am allergic to MCI’s and it’s symptoms just popped up after 64 years. It seems there is a corollary between me installing our new engineered Acacia flooring from Allen and Roth and an allergic outbreak. I can find ZERO information or MSDS on the floor and it’s ingredients from the manufacturing process. Any guidance on how to find out this information or any entity that does testing? Great website btw, thanks!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
you have to ask them for the data sheets if they are not online.
Isothiazolinones could be found in the PVA glue and they often used on the wood itself as antisap stain.
You could also be allergic to something else entirely in the product.
Noah
I really appreciate the work you have done, you explained everything in such an amazing and simple way.
Thank you for the information you provided.
Kristin Rayner
Hello! Our kitchen flooded, and we discovered asbestos flooring that is not in our budget to remove. This means we can’t use tile over ir, which would have been my first choice for it’s waterproof capabilities. What would recommend in a kitchen? I was all ready to purchase the cork before finding your website, but I am stressed to see it near the bottom of the list. Thank you so much for your time!
Corinne
The Amorim cork is good, it’s the only brand I’ve found that is good. Not sure I’d do that in a kitchen though bc it’s not the most durable but it could work.
Ann
Do you have any concerns about the HDPE in the waterproof Amorium cork leaching estrogenic chemicals?
Also, a question about aluminum oxide. Somerset hardwood flooring has been recommeded to me. Do you have an opinion about it? I see it uses aluminum oxide in the finish as does Karhs. Your thoughts about the two brands, please. (I don’t see how to post my own stand alone comment, so I am asking within another’s question.) I appreciate your response.
Marthe Schulwolf
Is lead in porcelain tile a concern primarily during removal and installation? Or is it also an issue once installed?
Corinne
When in dust form in removal and install or in countertops if acidic food is placed directly on it.
Ann
Due to a flood, about 600 sq feet of tile was removed from our home. What can I do to ensure a healthy home? Due to mold, the house is being vacuumed and wiped with an antimicrobial. Any other suggestions? I have an Air Doctor air purifier. Will it be effective for removing heavy metals and helping with offgassing of new flooring and cabinetry?
Diane
Hi I’m looking for a shower filter that’s toxic free and filters out all or most or all toxins
Nicholas
HI. Wow, very resourceful website! Do you have suggestions for garage flooring? I am installing heated floor on top of the existing concrete slab. The slab does have sloped sides and gradual slope towards the door, so I cannot use a rigid flooring type like tile or plank.
Thank you!
Cassie Fichter
Hello Corrine!
I am remodeling a home and we are putting in new hardwood floors in the kitchen, which is now open and new flooring needs to match existing wood floor in dining room so putting in prefinished wood isn’t an option. It’s a kitchen so the finish also needs to be durable. We won’t be living in the home for about 2 months- from your experience does normal water based or oil based poly off gas quickly or is it more of a slow burn? I’ve seen your post on using safecoat poly or Vermont Polywhey, but am concerned about durability in the kitchen. Thank you!!
Corinne
no to oil based poly, yes to some conventional water based polys like BONA traffic is good for most people.
NT
Do you know if Bona Traffic (specifically their most durable version: Bona Traffic HD) contains PFAS? Their new literature on Bona GO around reducing use of PFAS and Isocyanate lead me to believe it does.
Corinne Segura
interesting, yes it does sound like some of their product lines have PFAS since they say “Bona Traffic GO is free from isocyanate due to its built-in hardener, as well as PFAS, which Bona is phasing out and replacing with other components.” – july 2023
Hope
Curious what you ended up using for water base ? Is Rubio Monocoat a good product? Our installer says it is no VOC and best based on my chemical sensitivities.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
If you have chemical sensitivities you need to test rubio monocoat, all linseed oil has a natural smell that can linger for a very long time. I’d make well sure that you are good with that, as many with MCS are not.
Hope
Curious what you ended up using for water base ? Is Rubio Monocoat a good product? Our installer says it is no VOC and best based on my chemical sensitivities.
Jennifer Campana
Hello Corinne! Great information, thank you.
Would you be concerned about moisture/mold build up when using LVP over a concrete basement floor for a gym?
Thank you,
Jennifer
MRMO Technical Services
This was a good suggestion that you put up here…dude…..hope that it benefits all the ones who land up here.
sharon O'Sullivan
Hi I have severe MCS I live in UK and we are far behind USA mainly the illness is not recognised. This information has been great for me for quidance. As well as VOCs causing my illness I immediatley swell and have neurological pain like having acid poured on me. I am house bound and am trying to get my new property VOC free. I am slighly confused with the wooden flooring opion. Am i better having unfurnished hardwood flooriing or finished. If finished is it healthier to have the oiled or laquered flooring? Are some hardwoods better than others? Does Oak and walnut, teak etc have the same VOC levels? It is really difficult sourcing products in the uk. The World Health Organiation does not recognicse it, it is mad.
Thanks
Sharon
Corinne
there is a post on the natural odorants of wood if you want to see more on that. There are various ways to finish hardwood that are equally good. The usual prefinished UV cured polyurethane has no offgassing and is the easiest way to go.
sharon O'Sullivan
Thank you so much for answering and for answering so quickly. I will get the
prefiished wood as you recommend. I read about the odours, I am still stuck in my
understanding of whether olied or laquered is lowest VOC or are they the same? I will buy the finish you recommend as lowest. Oak seems to be the most affordable it didnt mention in blog which wood was lowest VOCs or are they the same, o amr I just be
being thick. Thanks again for your time, as I posted on your facebook I wish we had someone in UK like you.
sharon
Hi I have asked a number of uk suppliers they do not seem to know if wood
has been prefinished uv cured polyunethane, in this case would i be better
getting the unfished or can I assume that prefinished wood is uv cured polyunethane, Not sure if I can do that due to my severe reaction to VOC’s its like have acid pouredo over my skin. I am soconfused I can’t move into my property until I get flooring. Also still confused if oiled or laquered has the lowest VOC’s also can I
have oak fumed flooring? Myhead is about to blow up thank you very much
Corinne
You can check out the posts on water-based floor finished and natural oil floor finishes. Just be aware that terms can be used differently in the UK, like the term lacquered is a tricky one. Technically in North America this means solvent based, but colloquially its used more generally. I don’t know how they use it in the UK but it might be different.
Mary Jane
I have Junckers brand engineered wood flooring which is very popular to purchase in Europe. I bought it from a New York distributor. I have severe MCS and have had no problem with it. I used the Red Oak which I don’t believe they sell anymore but they have other woods. I used what was the “clip system” not click. I think they have a newer process for installation now that makes it easier. It is throughout my house. I love it.
Melanie
I would like to add kemiko products for concrete. We bought a house after moving out mold where the builder used this brand. We’ve been here for almost 3 years now. We didn’t ask for it as the house was already built. It was the only house, new and old that my entire family wasn’t reacting to. The label says low VOC so not 0 VOC. He used the brand for the stain and the wax. You do not have to use epoxy to seal concrete. The downside to the wax, it has to be done once a year. The builder chose the wax as epoxy scratches when moving furniture. The wax site scratch when moving furniture. The choices of the builder were overall low Tox and has made a huge diff in our recovery from mold. I have been cautious with chemicals since ‘08 before my mold crashes. Voc paint was one that did bother me before mold crashes. Candles, air fresheners, etc. No big huge reaction but the smells made me turn up my nose. Then I learned how horrible chemical sensitivity can be after mold exposure so I was actually afraid to buy a new house. When we couldn’t findable mold free home, rental or Home we weren’t reacting to, it made sense to but a home we weren’t reacting to even if the cautious with new homes were out there. I’ve learned almost every pick the builder made was low Tox options. I’m now thankful we bought this home.
I saw another post about ikea furniture. I actually bought a poang chair from ikea as it seemed ikea was low Tox and many concerned with chemicals adding ikea was a low Tox as they are under Europe laws. It caused the worst reaction for us all. My daughter brought out in an itchy rash that looked like chicken pox. Our environmental doc confirmed it was chemical reaction after having the chair in the house for only a week. I started itching so over. I’m sensitive to chemicals but not chronically sensitive if that makes sense. That was the first time I’ve ever itched from chemicals. I’m currently trying to get the chrysalis out of the house and somehow return the chair. We moved it to the garage immediately when we realized it was causing issues for us all. Even our potty trained dog started making his territory in the house which he doesn’t do that correlates immediately from buying the chair. That being said, I highly highly recommend concrete floors with keikmo brand stain and seal. I don’t recommend ikea.
Sarah
Do you have thoughts on the new coretec underlayment, SoftStep. It is described as being made from 100% recycled water bottles. The rep indicate phthalate free and contains no DOP DEHP additives. Do I need to worry about BPAs, and it safe to install? Thank you!
Corinne
PET doesn’t have any offgassing of VOCs. It could have other residual chemicals but they are blocked under the vinyl.
Sarah
Thank you! I also confirmed the specific LVP I am looking at is made of virgin vinyl and does not contain formamide. What other questions, aside from those in this article, are good to ask in terms of toxicity and peace of mind?
Corinne
There is an article on vinyl flooring with more details
Facilities Management System Philippines
Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed reading your post about guide to non-toxic flooring 2022. I will surely bookmark this post.
T-Kimberly
Corrine,
Wow…you are impressive. Thank you so much for sharing your well needed knowledge. Question for you. For a person with histamine, chemical, mold issues and lymphoma-what hard flooring would you put in your home? I see Cali Bamboo is claiming their vinyl flooring has zero VOC’s. It is all so confusing. And not sure I can handle the smells of linoleum. We will be out of the home for a week or so after installation. PS After I ordered what one major brand told me was low VOC carpet, I had to send it back. It caused severe reaction the minute they brought it in. Anyhow, I used Flor carpet tiles (without the antimicrobial/antifungal properties), in our last home and I did great with it, but we need a hard surface for this room. Thanks again! : )
Corinne
It sounds likely Cali LVP will be good for you, just get a sample to be sure.
Sarah
Regarding Marmoleum and/or cork, I have the impression that both need to be coated/sealed once installed. So that impacts the final reality of what’s involved from a chemical perspective. (It will also impact the traction, likely making both surfaces more slippery.)
Corinne
Marmoleum and cork flooring are already sealed.
Sarah
Interesting. Here’s what I was told when researching these two flooring options that would have reduced chemical off-gassing:
Cork:Because it has to be installed in sections, a final coat (or 2 coats) has to be applied over the entire floor. Otherwise there are seams btwn the pieces where water could get in, which made sense. I confirmed this with a place that sold cork flooring.
Marmoleum: If one or two coats of some kind of protective finish aren’t applied, the product will wear out. I confirmed this with the manufacturer. I think I remember reading that you have/had a marmoleum floor and was curious to hear how it did/had held up over time.
Corinne
Marmoleum *definitely* should not have another sealant added at installation. I a contractor told you that I would interview more installers.
Amorim Cork is the only one I recommend and it doesn’t need a sealant at installation. Some brands do it looks like but those are so high in offgassing already that adding a water based polyurethane won’t matter to the over all VOCs.
Heather
Hi there , Looking at taking up existing carpet and floor tiles on all floors in house. Has underfloor heating . Is there a healthy no VOC / Low VOC adhesive you would recommend ? My husband made a good point that if heated any adhesives surely will offgas more etc . Thought it was a valid question to ask . I’ve read about the tiles & lead . So now will research that :/. The things you learn ! Thanks for an amazing site !
Corinne
The adhesive depends on what new type of flooring you are putting down. I mention some in the posts on specific flooring types.
Carol Funke
I need new flooring in my bird room. I must use completely non-toxic flooring. Currently, there is old carpet but I would like to replace with new flooring. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. They are in a back bedroom, standard size. Thank you.
Danielle
Your blog is incredibly helpful and informative. I was wondering if you had any thoughts on Flooret? Much appreciated!
Corinne
Check out the post on vinyl plank floors for what to look for in a vinyl plank.
cheryl ryan
I’m conflicted between replacing the carpeting in 2 bedrooms of our home with less toxic choices such as Cortec that we’ve had for 7 years throughout our home. We want to replace the carpeting with better choices. We do like carpeting in bedrooms but know they contain and hold a lot of toxins and other unhealthy things. As we are retired and living in an unstable economy we can’t afford to replace all our flooring; however, we would like to know if replacing the carpeting with more cortex would be a good choice vs replacing with one of the newer less toxic carpeting that is available today with less voc’s ,etc.?
Thank you for any help or suggestions
Carrie
Thank you for this incredible information, Corinne. In your opinion, is it beneficial to overlay LVP flooring with a healthier option, such as marmoleum? It seems like the snap-loc version of marmoleum could be placed on top of LVP, eliminating the need to rip out the vinyl. Would this protect inhabitants from the dangers of LVP? In other words, is covering up the LVP with a healthier alternative a good way to eliminate the dangers that vinyl poses to our health?
Chels
Would terra cotta tile be under the ceramic tile category?
Adrien
Hi and thanks! Looked for brands from your list but the main store the contractor uses has only Optimax, Duralux and Nucore… all are floating, greenguard gold, and seem to be options… my brother has MCS and the condo has been remediated for mold down to rebuilding walls and ceilings… optimax suggests sentinel protect underlayment which also looks ok… looking at the others… do you think these would be ok? I believe it’s going over concrete.
Thank you!!
Corinne
Each type of floating floor has it’s own post – engineered wood, laminate and luxury vinyl plank. Those posts go over the specs to look for for each one. There is a separate post on non toxic underpayments.
Amanda Campbell
Thank you for your work Corinne.
Do you think the Vinyl Wood Hybrid (such as OptiWood or LifeProof hybrid waterproof engineered wood) is a better choice than Laminate (like Pergo Defense)? I can’t tell from your article which would be a healthier choice for our family with young children. Possible plasticizers or formaldehyde for a while…..hmmm.
Erika C
Hi,
My husband and I found an engineered hardwood option local to our area with a water UV cured aluminum oxide. It’s not perfect but much better than the alternatives (thank you for your resources). The installers are out this weekend and leveling the rooms today. They are using their own materials (think I saw mapei) for the leveling and prep. However, I’m buying installation supplies including glue, sealer, and caulk. Do you have low or no voc recs for these things? I think the glue will also acts as a moisture barrier or do you recommend a separate moisture barrier? They are click and float floors going in the bedrooms. The sealant is for the baseboards (pine wood) after they move them. They requested “DAP extreme stretch premium crackproof elastometric sealant” and wondering if there’s an alternative to this specifically also.
April
Hi there- thank you so much for all your advice! We’re doing a new build and are planning on picking this floor. I imagine it gets glued to the concrete, based on what you said above this floor and the gluing is a bad idea? Sorry, so new to all of this.
https://belairwoodfloor.com
MP
You might ask if they have a low-VOC glue. When I had Karndean “Oakeley” vinyl put down in my kitchen, last summer, they used that and I didn’t have any trouble with it. Nor with the vinyl! http://www.karndean.com
Penny
Hi Corinne,
Thanks for your articles, they are a great reference!
I had a question about a new product from Daltile, called Revo-tile. It uses click-in installation and same day grouting.
Is it safe to use? I need an alternative to engineered hardwood for my MH and was researching porcelain tile.
Thank you.
Penny
Corinne
I wouldn’t use it, the grout off gasses.
Gauri
Hi Corinne, Great article. Can you share the name and brand for Concrete tiles that you used in your home? Thanks.
Corinne
I don’t have the name and brand of those.
Phil Hyland
Hello
I am working on a project for a chemically sensitive person which might involved some aluminum as part of the inner wall surface. We will be using both sheets of aluminum and also angle iron made from aluminum.
There are no structural reasons that would require us to use the highest grade of aluminum. However whenever I see aluminum used in buildings for chemically sensitive people they always seem to use aircraft grade aluminum.
My questions are: Is Aircraft grade aluminum less toxic? Do lesser grades of aluminum release airborne toxics? Do lesser grades of aluminum release toxics when in contact with skin?
Thank you so much. This site is a goldmine of useful information and I am sure has helped improved the lives of countless people. Bravo!
Corinne
no off gassing. look for powder coated paint as the most ideal.
Amber
Is Sono Eclipse recycling product risdual material waste back into the product the same concern as recycled vinyl or a totally different idea since its from the same product?
Allie
Hi! We are building and im trying to decide between and engeneered wood (found out made in china) or maybe doing the Sono Eclipse.
Is engeneered wood that is made i china, but still Carb 2 certified still considered safe?
Also, i read that sono recycles its material waste back into the same product, but uses heat and not chemicals. Would that be the same heavy metal concern or not?
Corinne
I have no problem with floors made in China. There are tonnes of made in America products that have had lead or PFAS or other chemicals that they said they didn’t have. The two biggest scandals with Chinese products would also have been very noticeable to a nose of someone sensitive.
Allie
Thanks. I have to decide by tomorrow. And oops sorry its actaully Cambodia not China. Still ok?
And is Sono ok though they recycle the product waste back in?
MG
Hello,
Is it a bad idea to install vinyl plank over a slab even if the contractor builds an insulated subfloor?
thanks
MG
Corinne
Most people would do this without thinking, a better contractor would measure the moisture in the slab and make sure the outside detailing for water was impeccable and the land slopes away from the building and then proceed with the vinyl. Those like me who are super super mold sensitive, I would not risk it personally, but that is not a mainstream opinion.
Amber
Hi there, I found many great solid flooring options in my area with good certifications and almost zero voc’s in the testing. They use water based UV cured aluminum oxide finish like most do. The only problem I am having is, I am having a hard time finding ones that don’t use antimicrobials in the finish such as Ultrafresh. Do you know any name brands that do not use antimicrobials in the finish or are these normally a problem?
Thank you,
Corinne
I dont have a list of brands of solid wood. You want to start with that brands you have available locally. Sometimes it’s easy to find them without antimicrobial and sometimes it’s not. Ask them what it is exactly, many won’t say.
Christa Upton
Some ceramic and porcelain tiles used to have Microban added–very toxic. I don’t know if there is any of that going on anymore.
Corinne
Yes there are some out there, it would be Microban’s nano silver.
Marie
Is Microban still a concern? I’m based in New Zealand and a lot of the flooring options available here have it added. If it is only added to a base layer, would it be less of a concern?
Corinne
Depends, most of Microban is now nano silver which is not terribly harmful in theory. But yes also being under the floor is definitely less of a concern.
Jennifer
I have read this post about 10 times and still can’t decide what I need for my potting shed. I want the look of a slate stone floor, but can’t use tile because it’s a portable building. I’m having a hard time distinguishing between laminate and vinyl and which is better and has the option of a stone look.
Corinne
I have a post that is just on vinyl and one just on laminate.
Jennifer
Which is considered floating floor? My husband said that would be easiest.
Corinne
Floating is an installation method. Laminate, vinyl, engineered wood, cork etc can all be installed that way.
Jennifer
Ok thanks for the feedback! I’ll have to see which has options that look like slate.
Bonnie
What are some big name Solid Hardwood Flooring companies that have NO VOC or Low VOC hardwood flooring? Thank you
Corinne
You don’t need a name brand for solid wood flooring.
Bonnie
But some hardwood floor makers add VOC’s including formaldehyde. Lauzon does not, do you know if there are others that may be more affordable? Thank you
Corinne
With solid wood floors there won’t be added formaldehyde. If you are looking at engineered wood floors, there is a post that goes though brands from the least expensive on up.
Bonnie
Thank you!
hyderabad
nice information
Floor Way
Thank you for sharing such a nice information. I like it very much. This information is very helpful for me and my family. Flooring is the best option for making you home attractive and luxurious.
Tshaina Ouma
Hy Sir!
I Hope you are doing well. Yesterday I was looking for a solution regarding flooring and fortunately, found your blog ( https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/04/zero-voc-flooring.html ), you have shared some excellent detail about flooring than anyone who write about it. I like this very much. Your post inspired me very much.
spa69
Wonderful blog
Izspa
Good article thank you
VIP Lahore
Thank you for sharing such a great info I really appreciate you
Independent Lahore
Thanks for sharing such a nice post
Mari
Hello!
Do you have any thoughts on this article on lead in ceramic tiles and testing by the EIA?
https://eia-usa.org/images/downloads/Newsletters/may15newsletter.pdf
Mari
According to them, it is pointless to test any ceramic tiles for lead because they are all hazardous in their dust form.
Corinne
They are not saying they are all hazardous, but that it would be easier to just assume they all have lead and take the same precautions. However that is not what is happening in homes, lead remediation style containment on tile dust. This report seems very outdated. It is possible to test tiles quite accurately (though it is true that it’s hard to know the dust level from the XRF test) but lots of tiles are coming in at 0.00 ug/cm3 or 0 ppm, why are we accepting anything above trace lead in tile?
Mari
Thank you for your thoughts Corinne! We’ll noted!
Theresa F
Hi there,
Thank you so much for the work that you do! I am looking into this flooring https://www.lmflooring.com/flooring/winfield/ and it is a plywood based engineered wood as in you suggestions. It is Carb Compliant as well as Greenguard. Wondering your thoughts on this product as well as adhesives or glues that are good to use to glue the tongue and grooves together to float the floor. I couldn’t find a glue for this purpose in your postings. Wondering if you know how long regular tongue and groove adhesives take to off gas to acceptable levels.
Thank you So Much!
Theresa F
Corinne
The engineered wood post has more info (and a tongue and groove glue)
Annie
Hi Corinne,
Great post. I was hoping to install cork in our basement, but it doesn’t look like Amorim is sold in my area. Cancork claims to be VOC-free and formaldehyde-free, and they do post test results as well. However I did order a sample and if I press my nose against it, it does smell like glue.
Really the only other option is LVT… I understand it may not offgas, but I am concerned about the long term effects of plasticizers.
The room will be used as a playroom so non-toxic is important (but so is something soft enough that my toddler won’t crack his head open while playing).
Is LVT recommended over Cancork? Would an air purifier in the room help with offgassing?
Appreciate your thoughts!!
Corinne
In my view the polyurethane binder that cancork uses is not an improvement over formaldehyde. The HDF bases do contain formaldehyde as well. But comparing offgassing with plasticizers is apples to oranges.
Jennifer
Hi! Have you heard or know anything about Mohawk’s new waterproof engineered wood product, Ultrawood? I am looking for a floor that is waterproof, but looks like wood and is still healthy–enough.
Thank you!
Corinne
This looks like it has a better locking mechanism. But the floor is either an HDF or MDF floor. So once water makes it way in between it will damage the flooring, even if it doesn’t go through to the subfloor. It would also be vulnerable at the edges. Also HDF has significant offgassing.
Marsha Connell
You recommend only tile or polished concrete on a slab. But are they not harder to walk and stand on than any other covering? And harder to fall on. And a visually colder solution than wood or laminate? I have a tiled front hall which is much harder on bare feet for example. Remodeling our home for needs of aging in place. Slab construction 50’s Eichler style home currently some floors are wood plank floating glued together and some are wall to wall carpet which is stained and will not stay clean. I believe the original style of these homes used cork floors or vinyl tile looking like cork. Loose area rugs are trip hazards. We have wheelchairs, walkers, limited vision navigators. My kitchen maple wood floating floor has been way too easily water damaged. But pleasant to stand on, beautiful when new, soft to drop dishes on without breaking! Lo voc is also very important. I’d like to put same floor thru out house except bathrooms and front hall which will keep their various tiles. Help please!
Corinne
You could do a “sleeper system” but not with the plastic. Designed by Cheryl Ciecko. But in a reno that might add too much height.
You can also use natural linoleum if the slab is dry. Carpet can work in some cases too.
If your floor is still dry after all this time and mold and mustiness free under the flooring that you have then it is probably fine to put down another floor that blocks moisture. Consult with local experts or Cheryl for that.
Beckie Takacs
What is a “sleeper system”? Thanks.
Beckie
Corinne
Google “sleeper floor system” and it will come up.
Kristeen
Hi there, could you please help me find some safe, non-toxic flooring. Thanks
Corinne
Hi Kristeen, I do help people individually to choose flooring! You can book an appointment here https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/contact-me
Diane Stouffer
I cannot find a wood look vinyl that has a color that works with my leather sofa. My husband found something called Dricore at Home Depot that can be used as an underlayment on concrete to then use engineered wood. My research of the product gives me concern for formaldehyde. I am driving myself nuts. Have you heard of this product? probably have at least 50 samples of wood look vinyl.
Thanks,
Diane
Corinne
Check out the post on underlayments.
Kat
I’m very chemically sensitive with other health issues. What nontoxic flooring do you recommend in a doubkr wide manufacturered home kitchen and dining room that will not chip, splinter and shift under the weight of a bariatric electric wheelchair? We had Shaw laminate flooring but had a flood in 2017. After restoration we unfortunately had a company recommend, sell and install Paradigm luxury vinyl plank flooring. It started chipping, splintering, shifting and lifting at the ends of the planks in 6 months. The company is fighting responsibility. Their flooring distributor is offering glue down but I’m very sensitive to glues.
Corinne
I would get a really competent flooring contractor to look at this and advise on the subfloor stability which could be causing the vinyl to flex. Then they can advise on flooring types for heavy weight and once we have those recommendations we can substitute less toxic options.
Natalie
Thank you so much for providing this incredible resource. We are dealing with a new construction home and the builder only offers engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl plank. (I read your other in-depth articles on both.). I’m still not certain whether the glues in the engineered hardwood construction and installation are better or worse than the potential PVC and plasticizers in the lvp. We have young children and would love to know which you would deem the better choice in terms of health. Thank you so much!
Corinne
Engineered wood is definitely better in my opinion, no doubt. Check the post for which types to look for though.
Daniel Parnell McCarter
Thank you so much for this article and for your research. For prefinished solid hardwood floors, do you think it still matters what hazardous ingredients are in the polyurethane aluminum oxide finish, if the finish is UV-cured? I’m thinking of Bruce Hardwood, but it does seem like their finish has some hazardous ingredients: https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/20/20414bc5-2fb4-47f2-abda-1d106c358a74.pdf. On the other hand, it is UV-cured. What do you think about that?
Thanks!
Corinne
Not hazardous when cured and in solid form (not dust form). Article about engineered wood:https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/03/choosing-a-non-toxic-engineered-wood-floor.html
Robert Hogward
Great article. I can get more styles, colors, thicknesses, and other features beyond what I’d expect. The best part of replacing my floor is the non-skid feature that is safe for slips.
Danny Kerner
Hello, I’m looking for a healthy option for reducer moldings. I have PVC free resilient flooring installed, but it seems like there aren’t any PVC free reducers available. Do you know of any? And if not, would it be safer to go with vinyl reducers or Greengaurd Gold laminate?
Corinne
If you mean cove style, I have seen that in TPU. Check Forbo.
Danny Kerner
I mean the moldings that go in doorways that separate a slightly higher flooring from a lower one. I think they are called reducer moldings
Corinne
Ah yes, sorry. I would still check with Forbo/UPO and other companies that make non-vinyl resilient flooring.
Rustic Southern Yellow Pine Flooring
Hello is laminate flooring from home depot toxic the one you just lay like a puzzle? Thanks in advance!
Eric
They have now come up with Hempwood flooring. Uses soy based glue they say is no-voc. Stronger than Oak.
Corinne
Thanks for letting me know! Just ordered a sample.
Susan L. Discount
Eric, where did you find the Hempwood flooring on the Home Depot site? When I did a search, only vinyl flooring appeared.
Farah
What an great article!!! It literally has everything I need to know:) Quick question Corinne: Do you happen to know or do you think solid bamboo from Cali Bamboo may have phthalates? Thanks!
Corinne
solid bamboo no. Phthalates are plasticizers for plastic, especially vinyl.
Afton Jackson
It’s great to know that carpet flooring has some non-toxic options as well. I’ve always been a big fan of carpet flooring, so knowing that there are healthy ways to use it at home is really exciting for me. If I can find a flooring company in the area that offers this kind of material, I’ll get them to install some in key areas like our living room and bedrooms.
Dani
Hello. Thank you for writing this article. Your site has been so helpful and educational. The more research I do, the more unsure I am about which floor to go with. I would really love to install wood, but I have rambunctious, young kids and big dogs. I am looking at the new waterproof laminate floors. I have found one that is made in the US, floor score certified, NALFA certified and Phase 2 Compliant for Formaldehyde.
The specifications say
Formaldehyde Emissions – meets spec – <.061 mgm / m3.
VOCs – meets spec – <.50mgm / m3
It is also made from recycled materials. I am guessing this is okay since it is wood and not vinyl? I believe they use HDF and not MDF. Would you be comfortable with this laminate? We are not sensitive, but I want to create a healthy environment for my family.
Corinne
All laminate is the same, there is no significant difference between brands. This is my post on laminate https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/01/laminate-flooring-what-does-it-offgas.html
Carol
Corrine,
Thank you for this incredible article! I have some QEP brand cork underlayment that comes in rolls from Home Depot that I planned to use under engineered wood floors, but didn’t realize that polyurethane glues, polyethylene, formaldehyde binders, and polyvinyl acetate could be involved in their production. Is this also true of underlayment? I don’t smell anything, but I have found that moisture can definitely change that.
Corinne
Yes I have found the underlayments to be very stong, tried to offgas one for more than a year in the heat.
Danny K
Has anyone used the Sono Eclipse flooring mentioned in this article? Corinne, do you know anyone who has used it? I’m considering buying some, but have had a hard time finding opinions about it. I’ve only seen one thread about it on “houzz.com”, and many people had complaints there. Not sure what to think!
Corinne
They had some quality/durability issues is what I heard too. I’m hoping it improves as they are making changes.
Danny K
Thank you for your reply! I spoke with the company on the phone and they said their issues were mainly due to the fact that the original product didn’t have an attached underlayment, and that made it more susceptible to damage. They have now attached the underlayment, hopefully that will make a difference. I haven’t seen many opinions on their newer line that has implemented the changes, though.
Noel
The link for your natural linoleum glue on Amazon is broken.
What’s the best adhesive for that application called?
Corinne
It’s Forbo the company that makes the only glue you can use with it.
Bri
Hi Corrine. So thankful for your website. We are interested in the Hybrids- particularly Raintree. In this article you mention it is your top choice in this category. May I ask more details about why it is your top choice and if you tested it for any off-gassing?
Corinne
Top choice just based on the look of it 🙂 All three of those brands are essentially the same and I really like the new looks from Cali Bamboo too (and it looks like they might have removed phthalates which could change my top choice there)
Jenny
Thank you for these helpful posts! I’m looking for an economical flooring option for our 5-year-old son’s room. We live in Phoenix, AZ and would be installing over a concrete floor, so I don’t know that engineered wood is a great option (not to mention the expense). What do you think is our safest option? We looked at Amorim cork, but it sounds like that might not be any safer than a much less expensive Traffic Master laminate floor. Is that true? Are there any concerns with laminate other than formaldehyde and how concerning is formaldehyde at the GreenGuard Gold level? Are there any other concerns with the melamine coating? Why does almost all of this flooring (including engineered wood) carry a Prop 65 warning? Thank you!
Gay
Hi, Picking out an engineered hardwood flooring for the bedrooms. The install guy says due to my sensitivities it would be best to float the floor but he still has to glue the seams. Regular wood glues are not acceptable. It needs to be a tongue and groove glue. Do you know of any that would work? I searched your site on floorings, glues and none talk about tongue and groove glues.
Thanks for all you help, your info provided on your site and all that you do. You are amazing!
Corinne
If you are sensitive I would choose a click together floor that does not require an adhesive. Check the installation/warranty. If they call for tongue and groove glue they might specify a brand if not you can find a 0 VOC one like Roberts (test first for sensitivities).
Shirley
I ordered some mohawk sunrise marsh vinyl. I didn’t think about toxins until after. Could you help me find out if safe enough from toxins? I have a baby who at one point will be crawling and toddlers who are always touching the floors so it worries me. Could you help me find this out?
Corinne
Check out the post on vinyl https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/07/choosing-a-non-toxic-vinyl-plank-floor.html
Michele H.
Hello, great info!
I was very sick when we moved into our home 2 years ago and the floors were all tile (I live I Florida) except the bedrooms which were carpet. I did research on the least chemicals possible for floors to replace the carpet. They already had wood look porcelain tiles in the rest of the home, so we just matched it. Thank goodness It was luckily already a green-certified/Leeds tile. After researching I found the unmodified thin-set method from your website and a few others (we did not include the lime just in case I was sensitive to it and it seemed that wasn’t necessary based on our research) so we found a tile guy to do that and it turned out great and worked beautifully! However, I could not at the time tolerate sealing the grout but plan too once Im better if its absolutely necessary. Is grout seal really neccessary in the bedrooms as my choice would be not to bring in a chemical where we sleep? I dont care about staining as the tile and grout are dark colored already, but mold is a concern living in Florida. The only time water ever touches the bedroom tile is when we mop the floors, once every few months (if that), we mainly vacuum, and we use vinegar and water(if you recommend something better let me know). Also our foundation is concrete slab, so the floor is laying on concrete slab, so its concrete thinset morter/grout, and porcelain tile on concrete slab. We monitor our humidity and temp throughout the house, which is consistently at 76 degrees with humidity at 40-45%.
Greatly appreciate your input and thanks so much for this very informative site!
Corinne
You don’t need to seal it but liquid glass is tolerated by almost everyone if you wanted to try that.
Joan
Hi Corrine,
Thank you very much for the work you do. What do you think about Eucalyptus floors for bedrooms? Are they more flammable than other types of flooring? I know they can be pretreated with a fire retardant, but I’m very sensitive to a lot of chemicals. Thanks.
Jay
Corinne
I haven’t heard of that before. Did a company tell you that their floors were treated with flame retardant or where did you see that?
Jill
Thank you for all the information you provide on your site! It has been so helpful with us buying our first home and my severe chemical sensitivities. We’ve decided to go with a wood like porcelain tile as that seems to be the best non toxic option that can stand up to water.
My question is about Quic Tile. Have you ever heard of it? What do you think about the quicprep underlayment and QuicTile grout? Would love to hear your thoughts on the toxicity of those. Thank you!!
Here’s a link to what I’m referring to.
Corinne
I have a post on grout and thinset https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/07/non-toxic-grout-and-thinset-mortar.html
I wouldn’t use any premix grout.
nahid
Hi Corrine, what do you think about the SPC flooring sold in Home depot? are they really non-toxic? I greatly appreciate your input on its safety and whether I can us in kitchen or bathroom?
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Montserrat-Victorum-Elected-Bronze-7-in-W-x-60-in-L-SPC-Vinyl-Plank-Flooring-24-08-sq-ft-MNST-2019072/314157588#overlay
Lainie
Hi! I love your page. I am learning more and more about toxic things in our environment and was sick to my stomach to learn how bad our floors are for our health. In 2019, we put in phthalate free LVP flooring and now 1.5 years later I’m learning that I should have done more research and feel terrible for putting my families health at risk. My question is now, 1.5 years later should I be ripping out the flooring and replacing it or is the damage already done?
Tamilyn
I have pulmonary disease and need to find affordable flooring. Having a very difficult time aquaguard in laminate has a melamine back to it is that toxic?
Engineered Hardwood has Opticore wood fiber biproducts
I can not do vinyl and can not afford solid wood that has some waterproof resistance. Can you offer any ideas for me it is very difficult to find anything with Greenguard Gold they either have Floorscore or Greenguard regular and my understanding is they are pretty much the same thing unless you can find the Gold certification
Thank you
Jeannie Nongiven
My mdf laminate was manufactured 2015 -2016, installed 2017. Sick since. Company says meets carb limits. May have been manufactured in belgium factory. Cannot find info. Beginning fight to replace. Can you provide helpful information. I believe I must be sensitive if it is indeed within formaldehyde levels.
Tha k you
Sincerely
Jeannie
Morgan
Hi, this article is so helpful- THANK YOU for taking the time.
We are considering twelve oaks floors (mainly because our in-laws have a relationship with them and are going to get them for us for free) but I’m concerned and not sold on the idea even if they are free because I have a 9 month old .
They check most of your boxes but then I saw this and I’m not sure if this is a large amount or if it’s not a huge deal in the grand scheme of things. Thoughts?
Concentration of Dibutyl Phthalate : <1 μg/m3 after 28 days Concentration of Diethylhexyl Phthalate : <1 μg/m3 after 28 days
Hannah
thank you for your research. It is very useful. However, I cannot find information about Hybrid flooring (SPC and WPC). Are they toxic free and Non OVC? I know they are new products but very popular right now. But there is not much information and review on those products. I am thinking to replace my engineered floor (to high maintenance) with SPC or WPC if there toxic free and environment friendly.
thank you in advance.
Corinne
Hi I have a section on Hybrid in this post, and as for the SPC core refer to the LVP section.
Stacey
Just wondering if we choose the natural solid hardwood, wood-look vinyl porcelain tile, engineered wood, or vinyl-wood hybird, are these safe for bathrooms and kitchen since they are wet? Are these also safe for high traffic or pet? Scratch easily?
Corinne
I would only use porcelain or other real tile like stone for the bathroom as that can get very wet. You can use all the others in a kitchen.
Lawrence
What VOCs are actually measured in testing, especially those by industry? I had read it is limited to those that the EPA considers sources of smog.
Corinne
The EPA has an exempt list of the ones not measured Only a few of those are seen commonly in products though. I’m much more concerned about chemicals that are not VOCs being left out of many testing types like plasticizers, flame retardants, and many antimicrobials.
McKenzie
Hi! Thank you for this post. I have had gym flooring in my garage for a 7 months now and the rubber smell is still there. I just started researching the issue and am so concerned about how much toxins I’ve breathed in. I called the flooring company and they said the rubber is recycled and to wash with dish soap. I want to get rid of it altogether because of the stress it causes me as I like to live a very clean lifestyle. I’m looking at EVO foam. Do you think low VOC rubber or the foam floor is best in terms of heath.
Corinne
None of the rubber floors are what I would consider to be low VOC. The variations between them are minor. Foam is much better but performance wise they can barely be compared.
Sharon
Hi! Thank you for this article!!
We had originally thought we were going to get Pergo or other Laminate, but just explored luxury vinyl and are now stuck. Which would be the safest option overall?
Sharon
The luxury vinyl flooring we’re considering is LifeProof which claims to be FloorScore Certified, phthalate and formaldehyde free
Lili Llanos
Hello Corinne,
This information is so useful. I came across your article when I was looking to buy a floor for my child’s room (floors had to be replaced due to water damage). Unfortunately, for some reason I overlooked the part about bamboo floors and the fact that they are not so green. So I ended up buying the Ecoforest brand sold at Floor and Decor (greenguard gold certified). The floors are solid bamboo stranded floors (100% bamboo). Bamboo is beautiful, eco friendly, durable and renewable but my big concern is the glues used to bond the strands together. After searching and searching (we only looked at flooring options at Home Depot, Floor and Decor, and at a local flooring dealer) and not being able to find anything, we settled with the bamboo floors because they were readily available at the store and because I have a similar floor in my master bedroom (Ecoforest engineered bamboo with hdf core. It has 3 layers). When I bought them 6 years ago I didn’t know much about certifications etc.
Now I am really worried that these floors are going to be toxic for my child and I don’t know if I should remove them. My husband wanted to install the Pergo Laminate Floors or the Luxury Vivyl Planks but I convinced him otherwise (for health reasons). Did I end up with the worst possible floors? The problem is that if I replace them, how will I be sure that the replacement floors will have lower VOCs since the engineered floors that I came across with were either cab II, Floorscore certified or didn’t have any certifications listed.
Would either of those engineered hardwood floors had been a better option (lower VOCs) even though the bamboo floor is Greenguard Gold?
In the meantime, my child is not still sleeping in the room (floors were installed 3 days ago. The installation method was floating and no glues were used).
These were the other flooring options:
Home Depot: oak engineered floors from Millstead (5-layer plywood, phase 2 Carb compliant). The oak would scratch so easily and the hardness rating was a 2 so they seemed not so durable.
Ark Floors: brazilian cherry engineered floors (they don’t specify what the substrate is. They are Carb II and Floorscore certified. Were going to take 1 month to be delivered). Also, the installation was going to be floating and the planks glued on the edges since they don’t have a click system.
I would really appreciate your advice. I can buy you a coffee and if you can I would like a one on one consultation on this issue. Thank you!
Corinne
Of course, there is automated bookings for email consultations. I’m not doing many phone consults right now. Just keeping up with past clients and ongoing projects. https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/contact-me
Drina Brooke
Hi Corinne, I love what you do. I believe you and I have a hand and glove work and I would love to connect with you. Please contact me at my website https://www.crystallinehomeenvironment.com I too base my work on my own experience with chemical sensitivity. Please see my policy of giving as I go, and my resources section where I would be very happy to list you, let’s connect. Thank you, Drina
Denise
Hi Corinne, can you tell me whether Stanton’s Decorative Waterproof luxury vinyl flooring is considered low in VOCs (little/no toxity)? It is “Greenguard Certified” for low chemical emissions.. We are considering replacing our upstairs carpeting (due to mold/mycotoxins) with Stanton’s product because it seems to be a very good product and will work best with our decor and it complements the downstairs engineered wood flooring that was installed years ago (we didn’t find an engineered wood option that we liked more than Stanton’s product). But I have to be mindful of chemical emissions due to a lung condition. See: https://www.stantoncarpet.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/StantonDWF-Catalog-spread.pdf – thank you! Denise
Corinne
Read through the LVP section again, all brands are just about the same.
CC
Nice article, but chemical free doesnt always mean green. We must look at: Did we cut down a forest for this floor? Forests are in dangerous decline. What was required to make this product? How destructive was it to our environment? What is the carbon footprint of our flooring choice? These are things I will research before purchasing as well.
Monica
I was thinking about this with some of the stone floors that the carbon footprint for shipping may be quite high.
That said, there’s probably another 12 pages one could write on that element alone for each product outlined, and I respect that Corinne’s focus is on physical health impacts as opposed to environment.
The venn diagram there has a lot of overlap.
Summer
Hi thank you so much for this article. I am wondering if you are aware of any brands of wood look tile that are lead and heavy metal free? Thank you so much!
Corinne
We don’t know which are lead free unless they are tested, and frequently, but I would start with Porcelanosa and Daltile.
Joe Johnson
Hi Corine,
Thanks for your article that makes a difference.
About to buy a new build and they have a seemingly good quality Vinyl. They name it LVP but isn’t that just a name that anyone can put on their material? Are all LVP safe or Phthalates free?
The company I am thinking of buying from that manufactures from China is beck hambros.
Krystian
Hi Corrine,
Great article, I’m searching whatever available connected with laminated flooring vs health and here I can see absolutely great info.
We’re going to have underfloor heating – do you think it makes emissions of all toxic ingredients stronger or it should be similar vs standard radiators (heaters)? Underfloor heating is planned as water in pipes heated by gas so max. temperatures of floor up to 27C degrees (I’m going to have sensors which will block anything more than 27C).. Not sure if this temperature makes laminated flooring unhealthy.. and we do not want to have tiles in bedroom (it’s not comfortable) and wood is too expensive for us.
BTW – we plan to have Parador laminated flooring (German company);, have you heard about their certifications to toxic? I can see only info that all laminated flooring matches E1 norm so nothing very specific.
Keep your great work,
Greetings from Poland.
Corinne
Hi, the underfloor heating will speed of the offgassing of any floor for sure. So it will be higher offgassing at first, but it will offgas to completion faster.
LaRue
Hi Corinne,
What an informative site–thank you for looking out for our planet and our health. I am hoping you could help or give us some guidance.
We just put down Flor tiles in our new home office in our garage. There is a smell that has been emanating from the room since the Flor tiles were installed and we are concerned there is a chemical reaction happening btw the Flor tiles and the epoxied floor.
For additional context, this room is attached to our garage but it is built over wood. The flooring is wood with concrete on top, with epoxy on top of the concrete. These are the specifics on the epoxied floor. We had the floor epoxied 2 months before we installed the Flor tiles. Here are the details on our epoxied floors:
https://www.otepoxyfloors.com/flakes
This is the material/epoxy product being put down:
https://www.garagecoatings.com/product/roll-on-rock-epoxy-polyaspartic-garage-flooring-system-kit.asp
We are spending 8 hours a day in this room and the smell persists at the same level since installation in September. We also have 3 small children spending time in the room.
These are the FLOR tiles we purchased: https://www.flor.com/area-rugs_carpet-tiles/mod-cafe/21-1447.html
Any thoughts on why there could be a smell and/or if we should be concerned? Thanks for any guidance, would love to buy you a coffee for your help!
Thank you,
LaRue
jennifer
Hi! I see you looked at Amorim Cork Wise- do you have similar thoughts on Wood Wise by Amorim? (Meaning you wouldn’t use them personally?) The declare label shows formaldehyde and urea as in the cork wise, but no BPA as far as I noticed. I wanted a wood look to the floor so I’m struggling to find something, and thought I finally settled on Amorim Wood Wise until I saw this post. Do you think formaldehyde free laminate is better?
Corinne
Wood wise was essentially the same as Amorium Cork Wise. It’s better than laminate in my opinion, lower offgassing. Both Amorium and Laminate meet Greenguard gold, therefore we know the end formaldehyde level (which is lower than in the outdoor air). But the other glues are very noticeable, especially for us sensitive folks.
Shelly
Are you familiar with the STUGA FLOORING. Thinking of tearing out the carpet and putting this Scandinavian wood floor in place. I have MCS. Thank you.
Corinne
It’s an engineered wood. I believe it’s the same company as Kahrs. The construction is like Tesoro brand.
Susie
Hi, thank you so much for this informative post!
Between the two: Cali’s Geowood, and regular Engineered Wood (plywood), which has more total toxins/VOCs? I’m just thinking in terms total amount of carcinogens.
Thanks!
Veronica
Hello I was wondering if you can help me find a good polish that works with eco-friendly bamboo laminate flooring. Once it is installed and the shine wears off do you know a good coating that can be put on that last for quite some time that is non-toxic Thank you so much
Corinne
First thing to know is if it’s laminate or engineered (or even solid strand bamboo). Laminate is not made to be refinished. Talk to a contractor about options and then substitute in a safer brand.
Veronica
Thank you I will do that! Great Information. Would happen to be able to recommend any brands you would use?
Corinne
I’m not sure what type of flooring you have and if it can even be refinished! Have to find that out, then you can check out the corresponding blog posts.
AJ Smile
I’m hoping you can help us. We’ve looked into both hardwood and vinyl plank and the prices are about the same. We’ve learned that hardwood with nail down installation is the best for asthma … but … we learned that plywood is made with resins which are toxic. So our question today is … which is least toxic, vinyl plank flooring (floating) or the plywood subfloor required for nail down hardwood. Could you help us please?
Corinne
Plywood with hardwood far better https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/09/chemical-offgassing-from-pressed-wood.html
AJ Smile
Thanks for the reply regarding the plywood. We now have another question about an electric fireplace mantle and bookshelf unit. The product description says “Materials: Poplar, engineered wood, polyresin, metal, resin, glass.” There is a display that’s been on the showroom floor for over a year. Our questions are … Would you recommend such a product for a home with asthma and if so, would the display have off-gassed enough over a year for it to be safe? Your recommendation and advice would be appreciated.
Linda Parker
Was considering Tesoro Luxwood distributed by International Wholesale Tile for our house.
Its listed as Floorscore but comes with Anti-Microbial Protection. Is this a concern?
http://www.internationalwholesaletile.com/luxwood.html
Thanks!
Corinne
It’s not necessary to have an antimicrobial in vinyl. I don’t know which one they are using though. It’s not in most vinyl floors.
Corinne
All LVP is very similar. I would only ask about the few things that could be different, if it’s virgin vinyl, if it’s phthalate free, and if it’s a stone core.
Corinne
Ah, this is another vinyl and real wood hybrid. The vinyl layer is already a vapour barrier there and the IXPE provides some cushioning.
Z
Have you heard of Scratch master???
It’s an LVP but their webpage is suspiciously minimal and I just can’t find any reviews or more details online because it’s such a new product. Is LVP lower VOC per se or should we try to get more specifics?
We are not very sensitive to off gassing but I would love to have the most heathy option available in our tight budget. Cali Bamboo seemed great but when we received the samples I was surprised by the unnatural look. Scratch master looks way better.
https://www.scratchmaster.info/
Thanks for your outstanding work, by the way. We visited your website many times over the years and are beyond grateful! I wished we could give you more than just a coffee for all that you do! Thank you!!!
Ellen
Have you looked at Raintree waterproof engineered hardwood flooring? It is Greenguard Gold and I have been told it has no phthalates as well. Our builder is recommending a 6 mm vapor barrier over the existing OSB floor which is over a 4 ft crawl space. What is your opinion? Raintree says no underlay is needed as there is IXPE at the bottom. The climate is Marine to Mediterranean with wet winters and dry summers. We were considering an underlay for extra insulation and sound reduction.
Sue
I am concerned that so many of these require a vapor barrier be installed to meet manufacturer’s specs. Products needs to be vapor permeable to avoid mold. Slabs are most difficult to deal with because water from the slab will be trapped behind anything non-vapor-permeable (whether a non-permeable product like vinyl, or a plastic vapor barrier.) But that same moisture can damage permeable products such as wood. This is the biggest problem with slab foundations, as there are limited options. Raised wood sub-floors are okay with non-permeable products (like vinyl), because moisture can dry downward. But not if you install a vapor barrier underneath. The flooring manufacturers don’t seem to have an understanding of building science.
Corinne
Top building scientists like Lstiburek have no problem putting a vapour barrier over a slab. But those of us mold sensitive know what happens in most cases when we do that. Cheryl Ceicko thinks the slab should remain breathable. Tiles or polished concrete. But it’s not necessarily the majority opinion.
Julie
I’m thinking to put luxury vinyl tile in my bathroom. Have you heard of Setagrip which is available at Home Depot?
Thank you
Corinne
There are not major differences betweeen LVP brands. I would use the criteria in the post and even then, they are not that different! There are other flooring categories that have major differences between brands but LVP is not like that.
Landon "Lumber Master" Edgington
All the combination design for flooring are great, but for me tiles with wood hits different. It gives cleanliness vibes to the house.
Deborah Sev
I am taking out my carpets and putting in cali engineered bamboo floors. Because of financial limitations I was planning to wait on changing the old linoleum in the bathroom. The painters somehow misunderstood and thought I was going to also do the bathroom floors so got paint on linoleum. He is now feeling bad and has suggested I put in glue down tiles which He says are cheap and he won’t charge much to put it down. Are there any easy to lay tiles that are not very toxic?
Thanks!
Corinne
That sounds like he is talking about vinyl that comes in tiles which is like sheet vinyl, one of the most toxic options.
Pamela Fisher
Can you recommend a DIY product that would give porcelain/ceramic tile a shinier appearance? Thank you!
Corinne
I wouldn’t re glaze porcelain myself.
Keyana
I am thinking about purchasing 2,000sq feet of Shaw amber oak LVP flooring..Do you think that will be safe in my home with my four children ?
Corinne
I would look at whether it’s virgin vinyl and whether it has plasticizers but no LVP is totally safe since they all have plasticizers and they also offgas VOCs.
BIlli
Hi. I’m researching this product WINEO Purline Organic Gloring. Made in Germany. It claimed to be 100% clean. Price aroun 6$CAD/sqf Any thoughts?
Corinne
This is very similar to the Shaw contract polyurethane rolls it looks like but I don’t know all the European brands.
BIlli
It will be installed over the radiant hydronick heated floor. I wander if WINEO will have lover ofgassing that lets say vinyl plank with Greenguard Gold certification. This is all sertifications for WINEO: PURLINE has the Blue Angel, Greenguard Silver, TFI-TÜV PROFiCERT, the DGNB Navigator Label, the EPD Label of the German Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V., the Finnish M1 for building products, the Danish Indoor Climate Label, the French A+ Seal, the eco bau Bais Schweiz rating, C2C silver certified and the American Floor Score Label
Samantha
Hi Corinne,
I tried to book a slot with you to go over flooring brands. Are you booked all through next year or is this a system error? Thank you in advance for all you do!
Corinne
I’m off work, I’ll be back soon.
Corinne
A lot can go over linoleum luckily!
Misty
Hi Corrine. Our family is in the process of trying to find a replacement for our current flooring….25+ year old carpet which is on top of solid hardwoods. Would love to be able to refinish the hardwoods, but just not an option as it would be impossible as we have nowhere to go during the process. At first we strongly considered LVP. After reading yours and many other articles about the potential hazards of LVP, we are trying our best to avoid it. I went to a flooring store today that sells Marmoluem because we feel that may be our safest, greenest option. I was given a few samples, but honestly now I have doubts about it also. I was given 5 3×3 inch samples. They smell horrible….so bad that I had a headache after having them in my car for a 30 minute drive home. Also, since the Marmoleum is affixed to HDF board, how is that any safer than say laminate that is affixed to the same type of board? I feel like I am trying to determine which is the lesser of two evils….LVP that has toxins in the vinyl layer which is covered by a topcoat that has a relatively safe stone core (limestone) or Marmoleum that has a green (but horribly smelly) topcoat but a questionable (HDF) core? How probable is it that toxins will leach out of the LVP through the topcoat? Also, what is considered a safe topcoat on LVP? Seems like most manufacturers are using aluminum oxide. Thanks! Your information has been eye opening….I can no longer be an ostrich with my head in the sand when it comes to flooring.
Misty
One last question….do you have any research and/or opinion on floating, click together engineered hardwood with the stone core versus plywood?
Joanna
Hi,
I currently have old tiles on my den floor, which probably have asbestos. When we first moved in, we didn’t want to deal with them and move them so we laid wall to wall carpet over it all. Id rather be greener and get rid of the carpet, but dont know what kind of green flooring I can place over the old tiles. Any suggestions?
Amy Williamson
Love this article! I need to remove the carpets in all bedrooms, I’m pretty sure it’s harboring molds among other things……I found a concrete company that’s certified to do the Retroplate System Polish (only one in my area), but unfortunately after getting a quote….I never heard back from them and it’s been over a month. So I’m considering moving on to a different flooring option.
1. What do you think about Kahn’s LVP? I didn’t see any information on this brand in your article (except the engineered hardwood). They make clammed like pthalate and PVC free…and a ceramic top?? Curious if you have some detailed knowledge on how toxic/non-toxic this LVP is. I didn’t see any mention of GGG certification and I don’t know any details like if they use virgin materials and if they’re free from heavy metals etc. I’m wondering if you’re able to get this type of information from the company because of your blog. Any information at all would be helpful and appreciated.
2. What are your thoughts on using cars engineered hardwood floors and very humid places like Texas, Florida, Georgia etc. I live in Northeast Florida and it’s always humid here. It’s the reason I’m going to take out my carpet because it smells mildewy and moldy. What are your thoughts on using cars engineered hardwood floors and very humid places like Texas, Florida, Georgia etc. I live in Northeast Florida and it’s always humid here. It’s the reason I’m going to take out my carpet because it smells mildewy and moldy. I just want to make the right choice for the location I’m in. The rest of our house has ceramic tile and grout. But the builder put carpets in the bedrooms with slab concrete underneath.
Amy Williamson
***Kahrs (autotype messed that up twice hah)
Tina
Is Floorscore certification sufficiently safe for a healthy person? Or is it pretty much a certification better left ignored?
Corinne
I don’t find that one useful, it only means it is within legal VOC levels. I don’t think there is a flooring that would not be able to be floorscore. Here is more info about what it means https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2018/12/what-green-certifications-mean-for.html
Jenna
I was looking into the mono serra hardwood at Home Depot and noticed it has no water protection. Is this problematic? Is there a product you could suggest to protect against water damage?
Corinne
the mono serra solid hardwood is finished with a polyurethane/aluminum oxide UV cured finish which is the most durable finish for hardwood.
Stefanie
Hi Corinne –
If you happen to see this – please post any info you have!
I have purchased some Mohawk flooring – Laminate, Laurel Glen Oak w. splash defense (like Mindy from post June 18, 2020 at 3:50 pm) – for a large area (attic converted to master bedroom) and then became concerned about possible off-gassing and formaldehyde.
How safe is this laminate?
In regards to formaldehyde?
It has Polyethylene foam attached to the underboard, they claim they use PUR in the fiberboard wood core – MDF(?) (dont state what this is made of) as glue with no added Formaldehyde and the top is treated with Aluminium Oxide (saw your post on and surface metals released from wear and tear).
Cannot afford Kahrs, looked at 100% sold (carbonized-strand wide plank) bamboo and now see from your info it also has Formaldehyde and other issues.
I read your comments about Pergo which was bought by Mohawk and they do not use Greenguard – bu they say they are CARB and Floorscore certified – any good?
I am super sensitive and concerned about any formaldehyde.
Please post and let me know!
Your Information is a lifesaver – been going through all wood-related research articles, which have been tremendously helpful! A contractor installed PRESSURE TREATED PLYWOOD inside and I am so glad I found this site and your posts!
My mum died of cancer and a formaldehyde/pesticide connection was suspected as part of the cause, and I am supersensitive like she was – both off-gassing and metals.
Thank you for all you do!
Renae
I’m curious how long most vinyl plank floors have been phthalate free, if you know. We currently live in an apartment and the flooring is what I assume to be vinyl planks. They were installed about 6 years ago. Until we can find a house, I’ve been concerned about the safety of the flooring for my 2-year-old. Thank you!
Laura
I also have the same question.
We have this one at the moment from 2015 I guess.
https://www.polyflor.com/jh/products.nsf/products!open&family=lux&prodcode=4&shade=2233
kimble tubes
Thank You So Much
Jason
We are looking at using Southwind Authentic Plank WPC LVP (https://southwindcarpet.com/product/173855994/authentic_plank_3005_antique_pine).
I’m reaching out to them for more details after reading your post, but do you have any knowledge of this product?
Jason
Looks like they are certified by Floor Score, which complies with California’s Section 01350 program.
They use plastic composites and foaming agents. Virgin vinyl. Two coats of urethane for wear. They use IXPE closed cell foam for the pad underneath.
https://southwindcarpet.com/clientcontent/Southwind/product_brochure_2020.pdf
Precautious Father
Hi Corinne,
Coretec uses recycled vinyl, but they are GreenGuard Gold certified in their products. This means it meets indoor VOC emission safety requirements for healthcare and child daycare. Yet the material may have associated toxic contaminants like heavy metals and halogenated flame retardants as you say, which GGG does not test for.
Is it still safe to rely on the GG Gold certification even though the products may contain toxic materials that do not emit VOCs? It is unclear to me how we are exposed to the heavy metals, are they on the wear layer surface, or buried into the core polymer where it doesn’t make contact with he surface, hence no toxic skin contact? A green flooring company sells this product and advertises recycled vinyl as a greener approach along with the GGG rating.
Thanks for this article, I have been following it for 2 years and still haven’t made a flooring decision to remove carpet. I was leaning towards Kahr’s, but due to young children I am now leaning towards a water proof solution.
Corinne
GGG doesn’t help for vinyl plank. They would all pass that level since the VOCs themselves are not the high. The plasticisers are the next main concern there. I can smell them but they don’t count as VOCs. Then metals, not great, but yes you would have to wear it down to make those dust form. Sometimes it’s in the vinyl, sometimes there is a metal antimicrobial in the backing. Then the flame retardants if it’s recycled would be mixed in.
I do like Kahrs!
A lot of people like Amorium Wise cork even though it has a bit of offgassing that I can pick up at least we know that will cure and there won’t be any plasticisers, metals or flame retardants leaching out.
Ken Wah Chez
Hi Corrinne,
What’s your take on Cali bamboo’s Geo Wood? I got some samples and like that it’s a wood veneer on top and limestone for the core. I called to see if they added anything to the core and they said it’s 100% limestone. I need something durable, pet and kid friendly, and resists water. Both my kids are asthmatic and I am sensitive to odors. I’ve done so much research that my head swims with all the options available. Any thoughts?
Corinne
I liked Geowood but I’m almost positive that core is a limestone PVC mix. I will add that to the post.
Keris
Yes, it is mixed with PVC. Would this be a concern having PVC in the core? Would it leach out? Or is it safe since it’s covered by the wood so we aren’t actually coming into contact with it? I like the idea of being able to use this in bathroom/kitchen but I really want to avoid plastics/plasticizers/phthalates etc
Christine
Hi Corinne,
Love your article. Super helpful! We are trying to figure out what type of floor to place underneath a traditional dry sauna that we are installing in the unfinished part of our basement (currently there is only concrete floor there). We are trying to pick a 0 or very low VOC option that will be able to handle the small amount of moisture. Do you happen to have a recommendation of what types of floor you think would work best? Thank you for your time and consideration.
Corinne
I would do tiles there.
Corinne
I have a new post just on underlaymants https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2020/07/non-toxic-flooring-underlayment.html
Corinne
When there are a lot of pros and cons to work through I would recommend setting up an email or phone consultation.
Tim
Hi Corinne,
Thank you so much for all of your resources. Can you tell me if it is possible to use porcelain or ceramic tile as the main flooring in a tiny home on wheels? If not, what is the least toxic option that would be mold resistant?
Corinne
I haven’t seen it done due to weight. Real wood tends to separate so which ever of the click together floors is best for you is usually the best option. There is also a post on flooring for trailers though that’s more for metal trailers and vans.
Kim
Thank you for this detailed post! I had a question for you about a laminate floor that has green guard gold rating… I am confused because it is made with MDF, but yet meets greenguard gold standards. It was my understanding that most MDF has high formeldahyde. Are there some with lower levels? Not sure how this product could meet green guard gold standards?
Corinne
Is it HDF or MDF?
Crystal Poynton
Is there a brand for underlayment that you would recommend for floating laminate?
Brittany
Hello!
We’re looking at Armstrong Duality Premium Sheet Vinyl. Floorscore certified. Floating installation, no glues. I note the FloorScore certification sheet says this: “FloorScore® Indoor Air Quality Certified to SCS-EC10.3-2014 v4.0 Conforms to the CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.2-2017 (California Section 01350), effective April 1, 2017, for the school classroom and private office parameters when modeled as Flooring. Measured Concentration of Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC): Between 0.5 – 5.0 mg/m3 (in compliance with CDPH/EHLB Standard Method v1.2-2017)”
On your page where you address certifications you write this: “FloorScore allowable levels of VOC is 0.5mg/m3 (500 μg/m3)” & note that it is equivalent to Greenguard. (There was no comments box on that page.)
Can you fill me in on the discrepancy? The flooring we’re looking at is evaluated at up to 10x the level you note. (& please send an email note if you can when you post, unless I’m notified automatically of responses).
Thanks! We are close to purchase.
Corinne
Sorry for the confusion. Floorscore does have two tiers. Usually, on the certificates they indicate 0.5 mg/m3 since most floors meet that level. But there are a few that are in that 0.5-5 mg/m3. Most floors meet less than 0.5 mg. Sheet vinyl is probably the highest VOC flooring choice. On top of that plasticizers are not counted in the allowable levels.
Maite Crespo
Thank you for your wealth of information. I’ve learned so much from your articles! We are buying a new manufactured home and only have 3 flooring options by the builder, I’m sure we could ask for more, but we would t be able to afford it. We have carpet which I know is synthetic and they use adhesive. They offer us rolled vinyl sheets that after all the research I’ve done has: scotch guard, silver particles and a high density foam construction. It is made by Congoleum. I did find that Congoleum no longer uses ortho-phthalates, which is good and our dealer only uses staples to install, so no adhesive, but everything else worries me. Or last option is a LVP made by Triumph, which is snap in, so again no adhesive, from what I was able to find it did contain dioctyl (which I’ve read it’s something to avoid as its an ortho-phthalates) and terephthalate which is guess its better. Obviously the planking is a MUCH higher price from our builder (about $10,000 more than the rolled), though it would be a huge dent that we weren’t looking to spend, if that’s the safest option (we have 3 kids and pets), we will do it. What is your suggestion? Thanks so much!
Corinne
Vinyl on a roll is far higher offgassing than anything else. It depends on what you are trying to avoider but LVP can be quite inexpensive. Laminate flooring can be too, if that offgassing level is OK for you.
Maite Crespo
Thanks Corrine! Unfortunately they don’t offer us laminate at all, so we are trying to do the best with what they are offering! Is the ortho-phthalates ok in the LVP?
Marissa Rivera
Hi Corrine! I can’t believe how much great information you have provided and how helpful it is! Thanks for putting this info out there for everyone to get! We want to replace the carpet in he bedrooms with something affordable, but suitable for everyone, specially my youngest daughter. She suffers from various environmental, food and other allergies as well as asthma. She is is sensitive to latex and will be tested in 4 weeks for other kinds of allergies such as formaldehyde and other chemicals. It’s been highly frustrating to figure out what would be the best options for the bedrooms, specially when budget is very limited. Bedrooms are small, we need to cover about 450 sq. Ft for bedrooms, and if we can afford we would do the living room/dining room area that is about 308 sq ft. The house is a one level house, so under the carpet is just concrete slab. I’m going to wait for her test to be done, that way I feel I can focus more on what to avoid for sure. If you have any other tips or recommendations , it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
mindy
I have purchased some Mohawk flooring – laminate, laurel glen oak. I have since noticed some comments about formaldehyde. Do you know how safe this laminate is? I have not installed it yet and could return it.
Thanks
Mindy
Stefanie
Hi Mindy-
I purchased the same, for a large area (attic converted to master bedroom) and then – like you became concerned about possible off-gassing and formaldehyde.
Were you able to find out how safe this laminate is?
Where did you read comments about it containing formaldehyde?
What did you end up doing – installing or returning it?
I am super sensitive and concerned about any formaldehyde.
Please post and let me know!
Corinne –
If you happen to see this – please post any info you have!
Your Information is a lifesaver – been going through all wood-related research articles, which have been tremendously helpful!
My mum died of cancer and a formaldehyde/pesticide connection was suspected as part of the cause, and I am supersensitive like she was.
Thank you!
Shane
Hi Corinne, Hope you are keeping safe and well. I have just stopped my builders using plasticizer in the mortar for the brickwork. I asked them just to use water with the portland cement. However, the company pouring the concrete floors do use plasticizers. Would you consider this a problem. Above this will be an underfloor heating system and a floating laminate floor by Kronotex (part of the Swiss Krono group) . Thanks so much for your help. In the middle of a stressful renovation!
Shane
Your Irish fan
Corinne
If they are pouring self-levelling cement it will definitely contain additives. No getting around that as far as I know.
Shane O'Hara
Thanks Corinne…are plasticizers/phthalates a problem when mixed with cement? is there a concern regarding leaching out or offgassing? There are other areas cement or cement based adhesive will be used and I was anxious about this. Thanks so much for your help and I’ll definitely be buying you a coffee!
Jan
We are considering Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring for an apartment we rent to international post-docs who come and go. Do you know anything about this brand: Republic Flooring, Pure SPC MAX, The Pacific Oak..? Thanks!
Sarah
Did you ever find out if Republic SPC is Phthalate free?
Thomas Perea
We are in the process of putting in 700 sf of LVP made by MSI.
Will be going in the main living room and TV room with a lot of traffic.
Just started reading up on “off gassing”.
Should we be concerned about our new floor being toxic??
Would we be better off going with a wood look tile?
Tifani
Perhaps I missed it but are there any particular brands for tile? I’ve been searching and I can’t find any. Thank you.
Corinne
There are a few in the bathroom post that were tested for lead!
Corinne
The vinyl brands are all very similar I have found, if it’s LVP.
Bill Abelson
Thanks. I found the brand, it’s Lifeproof Luxury Vinyl Flooring (PVC is indeed among the ingredients). I see in your post on non-toxic van flooring you mention LVP is much more tolerable than people generally think and very low-VOC.
So it might be OK, but my partner’s concerned it would contain biocides and fungicides that are likely toxic, too. Would you know if that’s correct?
Dan
hi im looking to put in vinyl plank flooring. looking at spending between 2-3 dollars a sq ft. can you recommend which product produces the lowest VOC? thanks
Corinne
LVP doesn’t list VOC levels and the main problem is plasticizers which are not VOCs. The brands listed here are ones I found to be decent and I do think it’s reasonable for many people to use LVP.
Jin Sim
Have you tested coretec pro brand compared to Amstrong or Cali bamboo?
Corinne
Some of them have a silver based biocide in the backing. But biocides are not the biggest concern I have with vinyl.
Bill Abelson
Hi Corrine,
Thank you for the extremely detailed info. My partner is considering an apartment which has Pergo vinyl flooring. Is this specifically toxic or nontoxic? And could it outgas for years (it was installed very recently).
Thanks!
Elizabeth Hirsch
Hi there – I have been searching for Greenguard Gold certified laminate flooring. Aquaguard sold through Floor & Decor has this certification. However, it uses a “durable melamine balance layer” and has an aluminum oxide coating. Would you still consider this product as safe? How toxic is this aluminum oxide coating? We are searching for a baby safe floor for our basement. We were going to go with porcelain tile, but decided it’s just too hard with a wobbling toddler and baby in the house. Vinyl is a no-go since we’re avoiding PVC. Laminate seemed like a good midpoint, but now I’m not so sure…
Elena Cavaljiu
Hi, what type of flooring would be best in a basement for kids to play on? I’m overwhelmed. Thanks
Camille Bergman
Hi! Have you heard of Revwood by Mohawk? I am building a home and I have option of Revwood or Engineered floors . They are both Mohawk brand. I have two young boys (7 and 8) and I want to make sure it is safe. This will be going into their bedrooms. Revwood is a laminate / wood hybrid. It does contain melamine.
Corinne
One would be a laminate which are all quite similar. The other is engineered. You would have to look at each one more closely to determine which is best. This post contains brands I have looked at personally so I can compare them more accurately.
Chris
I was unclear as to whether the hardwood flooring information would apply when you have concrete foundations. Could hardwood flooring be installed without glue ?
Lisa
Can you recommend an underlayment for the wood laminate flooring? Thanks for this post, so informative!
Sara
Hi! Are any of the peel and stick floor tiles safe?
Corinne
The ones I have seen are all soft vinyl, which I find to be the most challenging material for offgsassing.
Daniel S Japha
Hi Corrine. Great information here. My wife and I are looking at putting in the healthiest wood floors we can find. We had found the Swedish floor Kahrs and it looks great–zero formaldehyde and most choices show zero VOC’s. Why is this flooring not in your greenest category? Thank you
celina Burns
Can AFM adhesive be used for porcelain tile?
. It says ceramic tiles on the site, but doesn’t mention porcelain.
Corinne
I would ask them but porcelain is technically a type of ceramic so I would think so. Depends on the application though as well. The adhesive is only specified for certain areas. Jay at AFM or Andy at Green Design Center can both help.
Celina Burns
My contractor usually uses plywood for a subfloor. Is there something that is better or can you recommend the least offensive plywood? Thanks!
Corinne
This post covres subfloor! https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2018/07/zero-voc-sheathing.html
Rel
In regards to toxicity, is vinyl sheet flooring different from vinyl plank flooring? Thanks!
Corinne
Yes absolutely, far greater offgassing from flexible vinyl sheet. I wouldn’t be able to be near a new install of that.
Fen
Hi,
You mentioned that you found off-gassing of Cali geo bamboo in the finish. Does it come from the pranks or the glue/adhesive used during installation? or underlayment?
Thank you.
Corinne
It seemed to me to be the finish on top. Not the glue or underlayment.
Bek
Love to know your thoughts about a polypropylene carpet that is still pungent when not constantly aired or during high temperatures 8 months after installation! Would you expect it to be off gassing or chemical residue which could possibly be steam cleaned out?
Can’t believe it still smells so much and concerned it’s aggravating an autoimmune disease.
Many thanks!
Corinne
Carpets are improving but they still take years to offgas to most people’s standards. What brand is it? Here are some strategies to offgas and seal it https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/05/mitigating-sealing-remediating.html
C. Katz
Could you answer to my email and not publish please?
I have a playroom with a conrete floor. Only one window. Want to put something over concrete tat is easy to clean up with out vacuuming, stain resistant and soft enough for my grandchildren.
Wood is great but out of my price range. Could suggest something?
Thank you
Margy
I really appreciate your information!!! I have a small house with concrete sub floor and asbestos tiles from 1962. I want to put green flooring but do you think its safe to just cover the asbestos tiles with the new flooring. Its very expensive to remove the asbestos completely. I am still considering removing it entirely.
My other issue is I have two dogs who are not perfect at their house training (one is quite old). I have had hardwood which I sealed myself but I still managed to stain it badly. What flooring can hold up to urine and still be as green as ;possible.
az
stone flooring isn’t necessarily non toxic. there are stones that will release radon into your home.
https://www.epa.gov/radiation/granite-countertops-and-radiation
Tom
Hi Corinne,
I am loving your website and I think it is one of the best resources on the web! I regularly check my ideas of what to put into my house against your website and you helped me a ton!
I have recently read your https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/09/zero-voc-flooring.html
It is as usual awesome source of knowledge but I am wondering if you have researched Epoxy floors and if you have an opinion about them? In the past they were problems with them but after initial off gassing they seem to be pretty green. Where would you put them in the scale compared to other types of flooring?
Here is what I mean by this type of floor: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=epoxy+floor
Mu
I’m looking to buy a house with vinyl flooring. I was able to find out the flooring is DuraLux Performance Tuscan Greige Oak purchased from Floor & Decor. I read a review stating it is Greeguard Gold certified. I’m not sure how to verify that. I am trying to figure out if the flooring contains phthalates but somehow the Greenguard certification doesn’t even consider phthalates?
Dorothy
Does anyone know of an easy, non-toxic cement-like coating that can be applied over plywood and then polished or waxed for a continuous floor without seems? I came across something like this awhile back but cannot find it again.
David
Kaola Clay
Amanda
Hi Corrine,
What are your thoughts on the brand Karndean? Here’s the link to their environmental statement: https://www.karndean.com/en/floors/about-us/environmental-commitment.
My husband and I are looking to replace about 1,000 sq ft of flooring on our first floor (great room, living room, dining room, entry, powder room, and kitchen). We love a 5″ natural hardwood, but the pricing just seems too much for our budget. We’re looking for a floor that is on the healthier side and won’t be scratched easily by our two 50-60lb goldendoodles. (A plus would be something we can install ourselves since we’re pretty handy!) Would your recommendation be low-voc laminate? We were interested in cork, but heard it could scratch/dent easily?
Thank you!
A
Corinne
I wouldn’t use recycled vinyl. The post explains.
Unknown
What is your recommendation for the least expensive non toxic option?
Corinne
It depends which ones you consider to be non-toxic for you. Price comparison at the bottom of the post. Everyone has a different level of toxin avoidance. After tiles I would do Kahrs, and after Karhs I would do Marmoluem, if those don’t work or are too expensive, I would go to laminate or LVP – depending on which is better suited to you and where you are installing it.
SthLdy
I got an email from Green Building Supply about a new waterproof cork flooring that competes with LVP. It’s called WISE waterproof flooring by Amorim. Have you seen this? What are your thoughts?
Corinne
I have a new video will post soon comparing more vinyl brands. It will be posted to the FB business page My Chemical-Free House and Youtube. They all are going to be able to meet some green certifications. I don't put vinyl over a slab though as it should dry to the inside for absolute best practices in preventing mold.
Caligirlintexas
What is your opion on lowes brand smartcore ultra luxury vinyl plank flooring its green certified low voc we are looking at putting it on concrete slab i have asthma and in east texas is humid
Chemical-free Trailer
What are those "many other ways"? Can you suggest some options that are zero VOC/non-outgassing? As I mentioned, we tried Simple Prep and the jar sample outgassed badly. The other key since it is a travel trailer and not a fixed home, the filler needs have some flex to it so it will not crack or break under vibration. Yes, we do plan a floating floor on a plywood base, but it has some gouges and seams that we would like to level before laying down the floor.
Corinne
Hi there yes there are many other ways to level out subfloor if it's wood. Concrete is trickier. It really depends on the state of the subfloor and what you are fixing. A floating floor is quite forgiving.
Chemical-free Trailer
Hi Corinne. Do you know of any floor zero-VOC, non-outgassing floor leveling compounds? The craftsman making our floor (walnut & maple planks) needs to fill in spots in the plywood subfloor that are not level, as it will be a floating floor. He recommended Simple Prep floor patch (see link below), but it failed the jar sniff test with my extremely chemically sensitive wife. The challenge is the floor is in a travel trailer, not a home, so the compound can not cure to a brittle state. It must retain some level of flexibility when cured, since there will be vibration during travel. SImple Prep meets that requirement. Any recommendations you might have would be appreciated.
https://www.custombuildingproducts.com/products/surface-preparation/pre-mixed/simpleprep-pre-mixed-floor-patch.aspx
Corinne
I like that it's phthalate free, but is is vinyl through and through. I'm going to get a sample of that one.
Unknown
Hi Corinne, Do you have experience with Home Depot's phthalate-free, formaldehyde-free LVP? I'm considering Santa Fe Maple Luxury Vinyl Flooring from the Home Decorators Collection. I really want to just refinish the original hardwood but we've run into so many issues and unexpected runaway costs, it seems covering the whole floor with LVP is probably the lesser of many evils.
Corinne
Older floors were much worse, if it was made with urea formaldehyde it can offgas for a long time.
mo.mai
I have some Shaw laminate flooring that has been stored in boxes for fifteen years. Does it continue to off gas, or does it stabilize acceptably after a time?
Unknown
Hi! We are looking to replace all of our lower level flooring while redoing the kitchen. If I'm reading this article correctly, wood-like tiles are a good option but text to see if they have lead in them or ask for lead testing? Is that correct? Anything else we need to consider? I'm new to your site – thanks so much!
Unknown
You are correct that many engineered floors with a plywood backer use a resorcinol glue for the plys which contains formaldehyde. They may meet CARB2 requirements but they still have added formaldehyde in their glues. The Eddie Bauer Adventure Collection is one of the few true "NAF" No Added Formaldehyde engineered floors with a very tough No-VOC finish. You can find it at Eddie Bauer Floors or at Revel Woods. Use the floating install method over a benign pad like Quite Walk. Edge glue the floor with Roberts 1406 engineered flooring glue. This is the no VOC no Formaldehyde solution
Unknown
Is aluminum oxide safe on hardwood flooring?
Corinne
Yes when it's in solid form, no if it wears off an becomes dust and you ingest or inhale it…
Samantha
Does this mean that Geowood could be unsafe if the finishing layer gets “sanded” from moving furniture or other tasks of daily living over time???? Since it is aluminum oxide (7 layers with a UV cure)?
Corinne
personally, I’m wary of aluminum dust. Though the wear and tear is very very minimal compared to other sources of aluminum in the environment that unless someone is going to the utmost extremes with metal avoidance I consider it a safe option for floor.
Unknown
What is the best organization for "green" floor certification?
Corinne
Hi there, I don't currently find any of the certifications good enough for sensitive folks, they could work for healthy folks. I explain them here: https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2016/06/what-green-certifications-mean-for.html
Texasboutique
Hi! I’m better but still super sensitive. We just purchased a home and redoing most everything. I’m trying to stay as low toxic as possible being from a area that doesn’t understand or appreciate non toxic things.
I went to a local floor place yesterday and they looked at me like I had 2 heads when I asked to be pointed towards the low toxicity flooring…lol!
So, would you suggest looking at a 100% wood floor? Wouldn’t the stains on them be toxic? I looked at some beautiful hand scraped wood but they were finished. We’ve used the ceramic tile that looks like wood in the past. I’m curious what makes something like that toxic? Is it that you have to glue it down? Reason I ask is, is I’m super sensitive to smells and the tile has no smell but real wood does?
Thanks for the great article and information!
Corinne
Hi there, see the post on paints and sealers for finishing wood floors. Post on mortar and grout for non toxic tile installation.
Corinne
Ardex makes a self leveling cement to level out a concrete floor. I'm not totally sure what all the factors here and what you're trying to accomplish.
HeliHelistin
Hi there, I am doing a renovation and am looking for a suitable subfloor to install underneath tiles. I am having challenges finding something that is both well tolerated and good in insolation – construction requirements demand good insolation and for instance Ardex is not good enough. Any ideas?
Unknown
You are correct about the pre-finished floors with UV cured finishes and embedded aluminum oxide anti-scratch components. They are no-VOC and much tougher than the old solvent based finishes. Also look for engineered flooring made with No Added Formaldehyde glues (NAF or NAUF) Some manufacturers include Eddie Bauer HOME, Luzon, and Revel Woods. Use a floating install method or a nail down method. Direct glue to the subfloor introduces yet another set of chemicals into the environment. Also consider the construction of the cabinets and furniture you are using as these often include elements of particle board that contain formaldehyde based glues.
Corinne
No added formaldehyde and no added urea formaldehyde are quite differnt. No added urea formaldehyde means it has phenol formaldehyde. I haven't seen flooring recently that is using urea formaldehyde. It might still exist.
Unknown
Can you also explain how LVT can be a good lower toxic option. Even the newer phthalate free brands are still made with plastic aren’t they? I’m getting mixed opinions online. And manufacturers are vague. Thank you
Corinne
I tested a few different types of the Armstrong brand that do not require glue. Good better and best I believe they are called. I also tested Cali bamboo. Cali bamboo discloses their V O C levels which are very low.
Unknown
Which Armstrong vinyl plank did you test. Do you know of any other LVT brands that are good?
Jake
How did your test of Armstrong's Luxury planks turn out?
Corinne
Decent. Will work for some people.
Unknown
How do you test porcelain tile for lead and radioactivity? Thanks!
Corinne
You need to hire someone that has the tools for this. Someone will come out and do the testing. First you should ask the company if they have a certificate for lead testing.
Corinne
Heating anyting that off gases from underneath is going to increase the off-gassing. I'm not sure what you mean by the alternative to in floor heating. There are many other types of heating systems and less toxic floor systems that would go better with in-floor heating.
Olha
Hi! Which wood resemblant material would you recommend for under heated floor in a house with kids ands pets? Thank you so much for your time!
charlene336
I'm assuming radiant heating under laminate flooring is highly toxic? What is the best alternative for radiant floor heating?
Unknown
I am chemically sensitive but have to replace nasty old carpet in my mobile home. About to put pure wool carpet in the two bedrooms but worried if it can affect those who cannot wear wool clothing. I saw a comment above about this and am concerned as will be the bedroom. Do people react to pure, untreated wool carpet sometimes? Will the air in the bedroom be clear?
Corinne
Yes people do react to wool.
Corinne
Will add to sheathing/subfloor post soon
Unknown
I did! Put ig in den to test, had a bad time, so cancelled my master bedroom! Thanks.
Unknown
Any ideas for a good moisture barrier?
C & B
I am going to have a van built out for me. The flooring will need to have 2" furring strips glued to the floor of the cargo area. Since the cargo van is new, the floor of the cargo area has a shiny auto paint on it. What adhesive would you recommend? Will the AFM Safecoat Almighty Adhesive be strong enough to keep the furring strips attached to the floor of the van/paint and then subsequenty hold in place a 3/4" NAF PLYWOOD FLOORING on top of the furring strips? The plywood will be screwed into the furring strips.
Corinne
Hi, this is complex and I don't have all the info that I need from that message. I would consult with an architect here this sounds like there's a very high chance of it going moldy if I'm understanding correctly.
Unknown
Hi Corinne – your site is incredible! Just bought my first home, 130 years old and needs some work. Pretty overwhelming to try and make good choices, thanks for making it a lot easier! Saw your carpet recommendations above… We are not the biggest fans of wall to wall carpeting. Do you have any recommendations on safe rug providers?
Thanks!
Unknown
I am very sensitive (MCS) and I had great luck with Hook and Loom for chemical free Cotton & Wool rugs at a reasonable price. Great customer service as well. Best Wishes. https://hookandloom.com/browse/eco-cotton-rugs/
Corinne
I have a post on rugs https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/09/11-best-non-toxic-natural-rugs.html
Faith Oh!
Well done!
Danielle Soler
How about vocs in porcelain tiles that look like hardwood? A printer digitally scans a photo onto the tile
Linda Kingston
I am looking for a low toxicity option for my living room, dining room, and hallway. I have a dog, so need something that will be easy to clean and not likely to stain when he throws up, etc. I have old carpet now that I want to get rid of. I need something affordable, preferable $2.5 to $4 per square foot. What do you suggest? I like the fake wood look of some of the laminates and luxury vinyl, but I am concerned about toxicity. Not sure if engineered wood is affordable or practical with a dog. I don't have allergies or sensitivities. I am worried about long-term risks of exposure to chemicals.
Unknown
What did you end up doing? I am in the same situation, aging dog, need easy flooring, but chemically sensitive so limited in what can get. Did you solve the flooring dilemma?
Dimitri
Im in the same situation also.
What did you end up doing with the flooring?
Ala Uddin
Excellent post.
Phyllis MacLuan
So I finally had my husband on board to install the click together bamboo flooring from our local green store. It's pretty affordable for us at $4.50/sq ft but now I'm thinking that it might be more toxic then they are leading me to believe. I then started looking at kiln dried hardwood available here in Oregon but I can' imagine him installing that. What do you recommend? we have about 1200 sq ft. Right now, we have wool carpeting but I am allergic to wool so I can never be barefooted and I'm sure it's affecting me in other ways. Thanks for any suggestions.
PJames
Due to your sensitivities or concerns over emissions?
Corinne
Yes. Bamboo is problematic for other reasons but I was thinking offgassing.
Unknown
I am about to get untreated pure wool carpet in my bedroom, just been measured, but cannot wear wool clothing against my skin. I thought briefly walking on wool carpet should not be a problem but your comment worries me. Is this much of a problem?
Unknown
Nice article. I'm thinking about going with cork flooring, but I can't seem to find a natural one (not finished at all) and try to finish it myself with natural options. The only brand that sells natural cork is Thermacork and that is only for insulation.
Unknown
Get an engineered hardwood floor rather than laminate. Less glue in the assembly because engineered hardwood uses a plywood backer and laminate uses a pressboard backer. Pick a product that has low or no added formaldhyde. Eddie Bauer Floors and some other good US manufactures offer this kind of product with no added formaldehyde and a UV cured acrylic matte finish which does not contain solvents and so does not emit VOCs.
WilliamKing
nice
ady
Hello is laminate flooring from home depot toxic the one you just lay like a puzzle? Thanks in advance!
Corinne
I don't know their brands. Look for low VOC brands such as ones with GreenGaurd certification.
Chase Edward
Wonderful blog, I like this type of chemical free natural homes, And i need to make such a home with special flooring works and all other works.
Laura
Thank you for the info. I found this interesting document which talks more about the Retroplate process from a chemical standpoint and compares it to 2 other concrete flooring types.
http://www.absolutepolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/A-brief-overview-of-Concrete-and-Chemical-Hardeners.pdf
Chicagoland Pro Hardwood Flooring
Gorgeous Green Home! Absolutely love the natural look and feel. Very impressed with your knowledge and expertise.
Smith Joe
Simply we know that some using this techniques is good. But I think this is not possible without using different types of flooring. So I really appreciated for the posting. Kindly provide these types of article in future.