Basements and attics are often overlooked, but can be some of the most toxic areas in a home because of how they’re built and used.
​
Basements and attics typically have poor ventilation. Chemicals from stored paints, solvents, insulation, or treated wood can build up, and then drift into the main living areas through HVAC systems or air leaks.​​
​
Basements are prone to dampness and water intrusion. Attics can trap humidity and heat. Both are prime environments for mold, which releases mycotoxins and spores that affect breathing, immunity, and overall health.
​
Even if you don’t spend much time in the basement or attic, air from those spaces travels into the rest of your home through ducts, vents, and tiny cracks. What happens there doesn’t stay there, impacting your entire home's air quality and your family's health.
-
Choose low or zero-VOC options for concrete, wood, or floor coatings
-
Opt for sealed concrete, tile, or untreated wood instead of vinyl or laminate that can off-gas
-
Install or run fans, vents, or dehumidifiers to keep air moving and reduce mustiness
-
Seal ductwork to prevent attic/basement air from leaking into living spaces
-
Fill cracks, repair gutters, and insulate pipes to reduce water entry
-
Ensure soffits and ridge vents are clear so heat and humidity don’t build up
-
Use breathable, non-plastic containers (like metal or natural fiber baskets) for long-term storage on metal shelving; avoid cardboard that attracts mold and pests
-
Relocate paints, solvents, pesticides, and harsh chemicals to a detached garage or shed