Health educator Layna Berman is joined by Mike Lavin from European Sleepworks to discuss the hidden toxins in furniture, fabrics, and bedding, and also discuss healthier alternatives.

Also available on CD at Shows on CD.

SHOW INTRODUCTION When you're having trouble sleeping does it ever occur to you that it might be related to the chemicals in your bed? California and other States have laws require bed and furniture manufacturers to treat their products with flame retardants. This, of course isn't, the only problem. The increased use of synthetic polyurethane in mattresses, pillows, couches, and chairs is made from a long list of potentially dangerous and carcinogenic chemicals. And if it DOES burn, it's incredibly toxic. What's a body to do? Well, there are alternatives, although harder to find. The first step is to know what's in your furnishings and that's harder still. Manufacturers don't usually disclose what's in their products and if pushed they sometimes make vague and misleading claims about how their products exceed current regulations for eco friendliness. They go as FAR as saying they are sustainable and green. But what does that mean exactly? Usually NOT that their products are nontoxic and free of chemicals that are potential carcinogens. Many companies actually go as far as lying or giving misleading information that sounds good. Today we're joined by Mike Lavin, a pioneer in the nontoxic furnishings field who has stood up to the authorities and won. Stay tuned to hear how.