synthetic Archives - Reactual

The Best Natural & Non-Toxic Bedding

Justin Thomas — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 05:47:00 +0000

These are my recommended non-toxic, bedding products:

Mattress: The Love and Sleep Mattress by Nest Bedding is one of the most affordable non-toxic mattresses (a queen-sized mattress costs about $600). The mattresses are handmade in the USA and ship quickly.
Comforter/Duvet: 100% Yak Wool Duvet by Healthline. Yak wool is ultrawarm & hypoallergenic. See this article for more details.
Comforter Cover: 300 Threadcount Organic Cotton Sateen Duvet Cover by Coyuchi
Sheets: 300 Treadcount Organic Sateen Sheet Set by Coyuchi or Magnolia Organic Cotton Sheets
Pillow: 100% Natural Latex Pillow by OrganicTextiles
Mattress Topper: Serenia Natural 100% Natural Latex Topper or Pure Green 100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper by Sleep On Latex
Mattress Topper Cover: Sleep On Organic Mattress Topper (80% Organic Cotton, 20% Polyester)

All of these bedding items are non-toxic, and hypoallergenic (meaning they won’t trigger allergies).

The blankets and sheets are also thermal regulating (meaning they help your body at an optimum temperature).

I have all of the products in my bedroom and have enjoyed them over the years.

Why Choose Non-Toxic Bedding?

We spend about one-third of our lives in bed. So choosing the right bedding is quite important. Our body also regenerates itself during sleep, and we absorb substances through our skin and our lungs during this process.

To create a non-toxic bed we must ensure that the mattress, pillows, and sheets are free of toxins. Specifically, the aim here is to avoid:

Fire-retardant chemicals (PBDEs)
Formaldehyde
Boric acid
Toxic dyes
Bleaches
Pesticides & herbicides

Most conventional bedding contains many of these contaminants. Unfortunately, some chemicals are even deliberately introduced, such as the fire-retardant chemical PBDE (or “Polybrominated Diphenal Ether”). To buy a mattress in the U.S. that is free of the PDBE, you need permission from a doctor. This is even though PBDE has been banned by Europe, Canada, California, and the state of Washington.

It’s also a good idea to avoid synthetic materials. Natural fibers allow for changes in body temperature, because they do not reflect heat and because they can absorb moisture.

More Information

The rationale for choosing chemical-free, organic bedding can be found in the book Sleep Safe In A Toxic World (this book is a great source of information).

See also the activist website People For Clean Beds.

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The Warmest Wool Duvets (Qiviut, Alpaca and Camel Wool)

Justin Thomas — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 02:59:30 +0000

To find the warmest duvet, we need to determine the warmest duvet filling material.

In terms of heat retention and the ability to be used as filling, these are the warmest fibers by weight:

Qiviut [Musk Ox Wool]
Yak Wool
Alpaca Wool
Camel Wool
Sheep’s Wool

For more details, see my article explaining why these wools are ultrawarm.

After testing duvets filled with Camel, Alpaca, and Merino wool, I found that Camel wool is indeed the warmest inside a comforter.

All of these wools contain no lanolin so they are hypoallergenic and odorless.

They have good moisture “wicking” properties. This means that moisture is absorbed by the fiber. This keeps sweat away from being released to the outside of the duvet.

This is the duvet I found to be the warmest:

Warmest Practical Choice

The 100% Camel Wool Duvet by Healthline — $229 for King Size. This comforter/duvet is “extra weight” (450 g/m² – grams per square meter). Camel wool is a light and warm fiber.

Another good choice is the Premium Australian Washable Wool Duvet by Down Under Bedding – a four-season blanket that is filled with washable wool – King Size, Medium Weight – $249.

The absolute warmest duvet on the market is the Qiviut duvet:

Warmest Duvet Available

100% Qiviut Duvet – $4049 for King Size. Qiviut (musk ox wool) is the warmest and lightest wool in the world.

Alpaca Duvet

This Alpaca duvet I have tested and it is also very warm:

Ave Maria 400 GSM Alpaca Wool Duvet/Comforter

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The Best Portable Air Filter

Justin Thomas — Wed, 11 May 2016 17:41:55 +0000

The GermGuardian AC482522 is the best portable air filter available
One of the air filters doctors recommend most, the Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifier is the best air filter for allergies
The Holmes Desktop Purifier is the best value portable air filter

The Details

A portable air filter is a device that is used to purify the air in a room of impurities and pollutants. Air filter statistics from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have shown that the air inside your home can be five to ten times dirtier than the air outside, and Americans spend an average of 90% of their lives indoors.

Portable air filters are intended to target specific contaminants, decreasing the levels in which they are detected in the room. In order to do this, the air is passed through one of more filters to remove dust, lint, germs and other pollutants. In a stationary (non-portable) purifier, the filter is inserted into the air return vents in a home. These materials include foam, fiberglass, cotton and synthetic fibers. A portable air filter is more versatile, and the same materials and methods are used in many of the best portable filters.

Some of the most popular air filter types are HEPA air purifiers, air filters that use activated carbon filters and others that use charged media filters. When purchasing a portable air filter with HEPA technology, it is important to look for one with a genuine HEPA filter, or “true” HEPA filter. Some may be advertised as “HEPA-like,” but these do not meet the high standards of a true HEPA filter.

Here are three of the best portable air filters on the market today.

The Best Overall Portable Air Filter: Germ Guardian AC4825

The GermGuardian AC482522 is just 22” in height and weighs a tiny 7 pounds, making it easily transportable from room to room. It features three fan speeds, is ultra-quiet and is best suited for medium sized rooms. The CADR rating is 100+, meaning it can clean more than 100 cubic feet of air in one minute.

This tower-like product from Guardian Technologies is the best available portable air filter on the market. The AC4825 uses three different filters that screen out almost all undesirable particles from the air by using multiple filters and systems.

First, the pre-filter uses activated carbon to remove odors and gases from the home. It also captures larger pieces of dust and pollen. The second filter is a True HEPA system that removes pet dander, dust mites, mold spores and pollen. True HEPA filters must meet strict guidelines to be classified as such. Therefore, you can be assured that the HEPA system in the GermGuardian filters out almost 100% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. Lastly, the air is passed through short range UV light, also known as UV-C. This UV light is effective in killing germs and viruses such as E. coli and streptococcus.

The Best Portable Air Filter For Allergies: Honeywell Air Purifier

The Honeywell Portable Filter goes a little further than most portable air filters in terms of filtering out particles in the air. This is one of the few HEPA filters recommended by doctors. Doctors endorse True HEPA filters for allergy sufferers as allergy symptoms can be reduced, and the Honeywell’s circular, stocky design allows 360-degree filtration. This makes it a good portable filtration unit for removing particles from an entire room.

The True HEPA filter is backed up by an activated carbon filter that reduces odors and filters out large particles of dust, hair and lint. Just as a nose has a membrane to screen pollen and other dust mites before they pass to the nasal cavity, this True HEPA filter product attempts to reduce those particles before they get to the allergy sufferer at all. Capturing virtually all particles that are 0.3 microns or larger, the Honeywell Air Purifier with True HEPA filter has three levels of cleaning and a light to show you when to clean or replace your filters.

An additional benefit for allergy sufferers, who are likely to be running their air purifier a lot, is the Honeywell’s long-life filters. You can vacuum and clean the filters, extending their life to 3-5 years. This greatly reduces ongoing costs, not to mention the number of days you will be miserable from a major allergy attack.

Best Value Portable Air Filter: Holmes HEPA Desktop Air Purifier

For the most reasonable, bang-for-your-buck air filter, the Holmes HEPA Type Desktop Air Purifier beats all the competition. With rave reviews on online retailers, a 3-speed setting/Ionizer and a price that’s barely half of its competitors’, it’s easy to see why it is a bestseller.

The desktop air purifier disinfects particles and allergens from an immediate area – only about 110 sq. feet – however, it does so with excellent efficiency and at a low weight. At only 6.7 pounds, the Holmes HEPA Type Air Purifier defines portability.

The purifier can stand upright or lie flat, and is particularly quiet in its operation. Three power settings allow you to choose the amount of work the filter will do to clean your air. Despite being only around $40, the purifier includes an ionizing function that assists in the removal of particles. An activated carbon filter removes much of the larger particles from the air.

For the price, there are some concessions. As the Holmes HEA Type Desktop Air Purifier does not come with a True HEPA filter, it does not purify the air as thoroughly as the above options. It will trap particles as small as 2 microns (for comparison, the above options trap particles as small as 0.3 microns). However, replacement True HEPA filters are available. Filters are not washable and typically only last 4 months. These caveats make the Holmes HEPA Type Desktop Air Purifier the best option is portability and low cost are the highest concerns and you only plan to use the air filter occasionally. Otherwise, one of our other top picks may be a better choice.

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How Standalone HEPA Air Filters Work

Justin Thomas — Thu, 05 May 2016 16:25:14 +0000

We’re all keenly aware of air pollution. If you ask someone about it, they might point to the smoggy haze that hangs over Los Angeles, fumes from a smokestack at an industrial site, or smoke from a burning pile of leaves. What many fail to consider is that, even in the cleanest home, air pollution exists indoors as well. Indoor pollutants can result in irritation to the lungs, and contribute to worsening symptoms of allergies and asthma. Standalone HEPA air filters are an increasingly popular way to combat indoor pollutants.

While most people dust and vacuum on a regular basis, these efforts may just be moving the dirt around rather than removing it from your environment. To effectively remove air–polluting irritants from the home, many are turning to HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) air purifiers. This guide will explain what standalone HEPA air filters are, how they work, and what kinds are on the market today.

Environmental Pollutants

Common dirt particulate, invisible to the naked eye, include dust mite debris, bacteria, plants spore, mold and smoke, typically measured in microns of .5 to 100 microns. A micron is equivalent to 1/25,000th of an inch. A human hair is typically 50–100 microns. HEPA air filters are effective in trapping dirt as small as 0.3 micron. HEPA filters are typically composed of a non–woven synthetic fiber. Some HEPA filters may be made of glass fiber. HEPA filters traps dirt in four ways:

Impaction: As air flows through the filter, particles larger than 0.5 microns are propelled forward by the force of the air where they impact and stick to the surface of the filter.

Diffusion: Tiny particles of less than 1 micron are so light that rather than flowing with the air, they diffuse through the air. Because these tiny particles don’t follow the air path around the filter, the particles penetrate the fiber and become trapped.

Interception: Mid–range particles are not heavy enough to be inert, but are not light enough to be defused through an air stream. These particles will follow the air stream as it circulates the filter, and they are trapped in the filter as they pass by it.

Sieving: Sieving occurs when filter fibers are closely spaced together and particles cannot fit through the air space between the filter fibers, so they become lodged. This occurs with particles typically 1 micron or larger.

These four filtration methods combine for exceptionally high filtration of pollutants and environmental irritants, with the weakest point of filtration at 0.3 microns. HEPA filters, at their weakest, trap 99.97% of all microparticles. HEPA filters were originally developed by the nuclear industry, which needed this technology to ensure a thorough cleanup of dangerous, radioactive particles. The technology was also championed by factories and workplaces where the environment produces heavy amounts of dust as part of the manufacturing process. HEPA filters are also routinely used in places that require the highest hygienic standards because of their ability to trap mold spores, bacteria and viruses.

HEPA Filter Classifications

HEPA filters may be classified using a five-letter system, A through E. Each letter designation indicates how well the filter captures particles and resists airflow. A is the lowest ranking, but still meets the basic criteria to be classified as HEPA. E is the highest ranking and is considered military grade. E rated filters are able to handle chemical, radiological or biological particles. HEPA filters may also be rated as type 1 or type 2. Type 1 is fire resistant, and type 2 is semi–combustible.

What You Should Consider When Purchasing a HEPA Stand Alone Air Filter

When purchasing an air filtration system for home use, there are few key things to consider. First and foremost, look for filters designated as genuine HEPA filtration. You may also see the terms “True HEPA,” or “Absolute HEPA.” This indicates that the filter will pick up 99.97% or particles at 0.3 microns. Some manufactures may list their products as “HEPA–like,” or “HEPA type.” These products are not quantified in any way and may be much less effective than a true HEPA filter. A true HEPA filter will always quote the numbers regarding their effectiveness.

Be aware that air purifiers with true HEPA filtration may have slightly highly power consumption than air filters without HEPA, and they may be slightly noisier than other air purifiers. However, most people adjust quickly to the sound, and some people even find the “white noise” sound to be relaxing, The few extra dollars of electricity each month incurred using a HEPA air filter is more than offset by the improved health and comfort that comes with removing indoor environmental pollutants.

HEPA filters need to be cleaned or replaced periodically. You can check the price of replacement filters before purchasing an air filter to insure maintaining the unit will fit within your budget.

Types of Air Filters/Purifiers

When choosing an air filter, there are two basic types to choose from; room models, which are portable and may be easily moved from room to room, and whole–house models, which are built into the ductwork of forced air hearing and cooling systems. Let’s take a closer look at the room, or portable, models.

Room/Stand–Alone Air Filters/Purifiers

Room/stand–alone air filters typically weigh between 10 and 20 pounds, have a handle for easily moving between rooms, and can stand on a floor or table. When choosing a unit with true HEPA filtration, they can absorb 99.7% of indoor environmental pollutants. The HEPA filter inside the unit is replaceable and should be replaced once a year in most households.

Cleanable HEPA filters can be cleaned and reused. Room air filters use a built–in fan to suck in air. Some models may have a built–in service indicator light that indicates when it is time to clean or replace the filter. Some models may also have a dust sensor and air quality monitor that raises or lowers the fan speed automatically as pollutants in the air rise and fall.

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The Most Durable Boots Available

Justin Thomas — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 02:11:01 +0000

In A Nutshell

The most durable boots available are the Boss Engineer boots by Wesco. They are hand-crafted with the highest quality leather and have an extremely durable vibram sole. Wesco boots are hand-made in the United States and are resoleable. With proper maintenance, they can last a lifetime. They are available for around $455.
Redback’s Bobcat Leather Work Boot is another quality option. Since they have Polyurethane soles, Bobcats are not resoleable. They do, however, last a long time with proper care and are more affordable at around $176.

The Details

Boot quality has declined over the past few decades, as manufacturers drift away from high-quality materials and thoughtful craftsmanship to mass-produced synthetic products. Brands that once represented quality, such as Redwing, have moved their factories overseas. Durable boots still exist, though. Wesco is a company that has been making boots for lumberjacks, motorcyclists, and workmen since 1918. Priding themselves on their craftsmanship, Wesco continues in the tradition of artisan-quality boot making. According to their website:

Wesco boots are built in our own factory, in our own backyard. Every boot is made from top quality, full grain leather. The integrity of materials used throughout our boot building process is above reproach—steel is used where another boot maker might use plastic—leather is always used instead of cork. Our dedicated Wesco boot-makers work as a team, hand-to-hand, in a 155 step-by-step process that requires skill, strength, and discipline.

Wesco’s Engineer model has removable shock-absorbing inserts that are ideal for motorcyclists. Its strap is fastened with nickel-plated hardware. They are stylish, and the shaft measures 11″ from the heel, which might be too tall depending on your preference. The price tag also puts them out of most people’s reach.

The Boss Engineer boots are available from Amazon for about $410.

Another Option

A less expensive but still reliable option is Redback’s Bobcat Leather Work Boot. Redback boots are made in Australia from 2.5mm thick leather and are 20% tougher than other work boots. The soles are handmade Polyurethane, which lasts for a long while if it is well-maintained. According to Redback:

The boots are made from traditionally preferred cement lasted method whereby the leather is wrapped under the insole and fused under heat and pressure with high tech Polyester and Polamide molten sealant/adhesive.

The Bobcat Leather Work Boot is available on Amazon for about $176.

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The Lightest Winter Sleeping Bag of 2016

Justin Thomas — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 14:25:48 +0000

In A Nutshell

The lightest winter sleeping bag of 2016 is the Western Mountaineering Antelope MF. The largest-sized bag (78-inches or 200 cm long) weighs just 39 ounces (1,105 grams) — about as heavy as a bottle of wine.
Other top lightweight winter sleeping bags range from 42 ounces to 46 ounces. The second-lightest winter sleeping bag is the Mountain Hardwear Phantom. It weighs 42 ounces (1,190 grams) and costs $410 for the largest size.
The lightest winter sleeping bags are all down-filled. Synthetic-filled bags tend to be heavier and not nearly as warm as those with down.

The Details

When it comes to sleeping bags for backcountry camping, particularly when it involves cold temperatures and snow (see tips for winter camping here), weight and warmth are key factors. When you curl up in your snow cave or four-season tent at the end of a long day of skiing, you want to be warm and toasty while you sleep.

The 5-degree-Fahrenheit-rated (minus 15 degrees Celsius) 850-fill down Western Mountaineering Antelope MF offers a combination of warmth from 26-ounces worth of down loft and a weight savings of three ounces compared to its closest competitor. It costs $575 for the short size and $615 for the long size, with a regular size available for $595.

This downy warmth is sealed inside a weather-resistant, breathable shell made from Western Mountaineering’s patented 20-denier MicroLite XP shell fabric that keeps you dry, and includes a full three-dimensional down-filled collar and draft tube to help keep the warm air where it needs to be – inside. And, as temperatures are inclined to change, the bag’s 5.25-inch continuous baffles let you shift the down fill beneath you to help keep you cool – or to the top to keep you warmer.

While it is rated as a three-season bag, suitable for use in spring through fall, if winter temperatures don’t dip below 5 degrees in the area you plan to travel, or you plan to sleep in a snow cave, this is the lightest winter sleeping bag option available.

Backed by 45 years of manufacturing out of their San Jose, California factory, the Antelope MF comes with Western Mountaineering’s unlimited time guarantee against manufacturer’s defects.

This bag is available in three sizes (short, regular and large), with a left or right option for the dual-direction number 7 YKK zipper.

The Western Mountaineering Antelope MF sleeping bag is available from Amazon for around $575

Other Alternatives: Lightweight winter sleeping bags

The next-lightest competitor to the Antelope is no slouch. Weighing just 42 ounces and boasting an 800-fill down insulation, the Mountain Hardwear Phantom is also a lightweight and plenty-warm option for winter campers.

At a regular price of $580, it’s also priced comparatively to the Antelope and backed by Mountain Hardwear’s limited lifetime warranty.

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The Most Durable Pillow: Natural Latex

Justin Thomas — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:13:32 +0000

The most durable pillows are made with natural latex, the milky sap of the rubber tree. Latex is a yielding but highly resilient material. You can expect a natural latex pillow to hold its shape and retain it springiness for 15 years or more. The pillows don’t require cleaning or fluffing like feather pillows. Latex also has natural antimicrobial properties, and resists dust mites, mold and mildew.

Natural latex is mostly harvested in South East Asia. Trees are tapped for latex by cutting a groove in the bark of the tree. It is a renewable process — each tree can produce latex for 20 years.

Unfortunately, the word “latex” has also been used to describe synthetic latex,which is derived from petroleum. Synthetic pillows tend to off-gas, meaning they slowly release toxic chemicals into the air.

Natural latex pillows are available from Amazon for $50-$70 each.

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