That new car smell is exciting when you get a new pair of wheels. But it can also be hazardous for your health, because it’s a sign your car is releasing toxic gases.

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are released by man-made materials like paints and finishes. They can cause headaches, respiratory issues and joint pain. In some instances, they may even cause cancer.

Flooring, furniture and even window treatments in your home can release VOCs, polluting your indoor air and making you feel sick. That’s why it’s important to choose products that are healthy for your family and the environment.

When it’s time for new window treatments, Louver Shop is here to help. All our custom shutters, blinds and shades are made here in the USA from the highest quality materials and fabrics. You can see samples for yourself during a free consultation, where you’ll receive expert design advice, also at no cost.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re looking for new window treatments, as well as some of the best nontoxic styles.

Consider Where the Window Treatments Are Made

Consider the regulations where your window treatments are produced. In the United States, the EPA regulates VOCs in consumer products. If your window treatments are made overseas, regulations may be more relaxed or nonexistent.

Louver Shop manufactures our plantation shutters in Georgia and finishes them with proprietary paints or stains. These nontoxic finishes are safe for the environment and water based.

As the name suggests, water-based paints and stains use water in combination with their pigments. As a result, they emit little to no VOCs. The finishes we use at Louver Shop exceed regulations established by the Air Quality Management District and the Ozone Transport Commission.

Keep Window Treatment Material in Mind

If you’re sensitive to VOCs, choosing the right window treatment material makes a big difference.

Wood and Other Natural Materials

We offer several real-wood solutions for window treatments: plantation shutters, horizontal blinds and shades. Our plantation shutters are made from the finest wood available, furniture-grade basswood or poplar. And, as we mentioned before, they’re finished with nontoxic, low VOC paints or stains.

If you’re searching for the look of plantation shutters at a lower price point, there’s horizontal wood blinds from Hunter Douglas. This basswood comes from responsibly managed forests, and each purchase supports the Arbor Day Foundation®.

Want shades instead? Provenance® Woven Wood Shades are made from natural fibers like wood, bamboo, grasses and reeds to give your home a unique look. Choose from styles like Roman, waterfall Roman and vertical drapery. And then make them your own by adding valances, edge banding or a light-filtering liner.

At Louver Shop, we have plenty of gorgeous options that won’t adversely affect your family’s health. From a free consultation where you can see all your options to expert design assistance at no cost, we are here to help you. Contact us at 888-249-5655 today to schedule your free consultation now.