There are many things to consider in detoxifying your home.

 

Radon

Radon gas, which is emitted naturally from the earth and from groundwater, is one of the more serious household pollutants. In houses which are built tightly against the elements, radon can become trapped after finding it's way in through water sources (toilets, sinks etc.) and from underground seepage (basements, walkouts, etc.), and the concentration of radon can be several thousand times higher inside than out since it cannot escape. It is particularly a risk if you have a well (most public water has low radon levels) or if you live in an area with higher radon levels.The gas is colorless and odorless, but you can have your home tested for radon, and install radon traps in water pipes. If you have levels above 4 picocuries per liter of air or 300 picocuries per liter in water, you should take action to reduce the levels. High radon levels, when inhaled, carry a risk of lung cancer. About 1-3 percent of people exposed at 4 pCi/l will die of lung cancer; the EPA estimates that radon is a primary cause of lung cancer in 10% of cases. However, if you remove the levels, your risk will decrease even if you have previously been exposed.

 

Floor Covering

Avoid wall to wall carpeting and vinyl flooring, both of which emit a lot of volatile organic compounds, particularly when new. Use wood (finished with natural petroleum-free finish), ceramic tile or natural linoleum (true linoleum actually doesn't have vinyl in it - the source of the volatile compounds). Use rugs of jute, coir, sisal or other natural fibers.

 

Paint/Wallcovering

Avoid vinyl wallpaper, chemically treated wallpaper, high VOC paints. Use the low VOC paints that are available.

 

Furniture

Avoid particleboard. It usually contains urea-formaldehyde, which is easily emitted into the air (and is another VOC). Formaldehyde has been proven to cause cancer in animals, most likely does in humans, as well as possibly causing chemical sensitivity after exposure. You can seal particleboard to reduce the emissions, but I would limit the amount that you have. Use solid wood furniture and cabinets with a natural finish. They last much longer and do not emit VOCs.

 

Fabrics

Many fabrics are treated with chemicals (eg. formaldehyde for permanent press). Choose cotton, linen, silk and rayons. Get rid of vinyl shower curtains.