This post is a comprehensive review of healthy, non-offgassing countertop options.
We have to look at the materials themselves as well as the sealers if they require one.
Almost all the countertop options here can also be used as non-toxic vanity tops in a bathroom.
Many options are GreenGuard Gold, but most of the options here have no off-gassing at all.
This article contains affiliate links, upon purchase I earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Non-Toxic Countertops
Granite and Marble Counters
Granite and marble are often treated with a sealant and resin before it makes it to your home.
The downside of most types of granite and marble is that they need to be resealed every year or two and you need to find a sealer that is acceptable to you.
Light-colored porous stones must be sealed with a synthetic sealer, Trinova is one of two I have found that is free of PFAS and is 0-VOC.
Walnut Oil works great if the stones are darker colors or warm-toned colors and are not glossy.
I tested and was very happy with this sealer because it’s all-natural and it performed better in my tests than many synthetics.
Ubatuba granite and many other dark stones like some dense granites and some slate do not need a sealer which is a major plus side.
Granite and Radon
Natural stone can contain trace amounts of radioactive elements like uranium and thorium which produce the gas radon and can emit small amounts of beta and gamma radiation. The EPA does not consider this above the earth’s natural background level of radiation.
Granite is more likely than other types of stone slabs to contain these elements, but not every slab will contain them.
Underlayment/Install
Granite and marble don’t always need plywood as an underlayment, it depends on the thickness. You can also use a different type of underlayment.
Epoxy glue is used on the seams, which does cure quickly.
NOTE: Most stone contains silica. This is a risk to breathe in when in dust form. It is safe when in solid form.
Other Natural Stone Counters
A review of other natural stones and their chemicals of concern can be found in my book and course on building and renovating a healthy home.
Quartz Counters (Engineered Stone)
I used Cambria Quartz in my tiny home and it’s absolutely beautiful.
Quartz is made of ground quartz (real stone), pigment, and a binder which is usually polyester resin.
Some companies claim that the final product is fully cured (no VOCs), but I did notice a very minor off-gassing odor for the first few days when I was at my most severely sensitive.
There is a potential for there to be unreacted styrene still present but that seems unlikely to me after a few days.
It is a long-lasting non-porous material that doesn’t need a sealer though I have found it prone to staining from red wine, black tea, rust, paint, and packaging dyes.
More tips on quartz for sensitive people can be found in my book and course.
Sintered Stone Countertops (Porcelain)
Sintered stone is made from the natural raw materials found in glass, porcelain, and quartz, formed under extremely high heat and pressure.
There is no synthetic polyester resin and no off-gassing from sintered stone.
It is denser than regular quartz and is virtually impossible to stain (no sealer needed).
You can also put hot pans directly on it.
Dekton (pictured) is made from natural quartz stone, porcelain, and glass compressed under high pressure and heat.
Neolith is another sintered stone (also called porcelain) made of granite minerals, such as feldspar and pure quartz, minerals from silica and glass, and natural oxides.
Caesarstone porcelain is another brand.
Paper Composite
PaperStone and Richlite (pictured) are paper-based and lightweight (ideal for trailers and tiny houses!)
However, they are made with phenol-formaldehyde as the main resin. (Though there is some misrepresentation by some vendors, it’s not hard to find the documents for Richlite and PaperStone indicating formaldehyde as the resin.)
Richlite claims the final emissions are only 0.001 ppm (parts per million) of formaldehyde.
I have found that these brands do smell like formaldehyde when brand new, but they do make good progress rather quickly, depending on the thickness.
Though I use a Richlite (Epicurean) cutting board and I talk about how that full off-gassing time became less clear to me after using this.
Richlite is made with new paper, PaperStone is made with recycled paper. PaperRock is an Australian brand making this same type of benchtop (as they call countertops there).
Glass & Concrete
Recycled glass counters come in different types.
One made with resin is very similar to quartz and is also considered just as safe.
The other type uses cement as the base for the glass.
Icestone is a brand that makes cement & glass countertops – they claim zero VOC. It needs a stone sealer.
Vetrazzo is another brand that makes glass and concrete countertops.
Solid Surface Counters – Plastic Resin-Based
Solid-surface countertops are made from alumina trihydrate (ATH) as the filler, acrylic or polyester as the resin (binder), and pigments for color.
Many of the designs are very hard to distinguish from quartz.
Some brands contain anti-microbials.
The brands are outlined in the book and course.
There are some that claim to be 0-VOC (and formaldehyde-free) and one that might contain flame retardants and toxicants of concern.
There are more brands in the book and course, two that claim to be 0-VOC (and formaldehyde-free) and one that might contain flame retardants and toxicants of concern.
Concrete Countertops
This is a non-toxic countertop mix that does not contain fly ash, vinyl, or latex.
Fly ash is not ideal in concrete products as it contains toxic metals and can contain radioactive elements.
You could use white cement, white sand, pigments, and other non-toxic concrete stains to get different looks. Colorants should be non-aniline dyes free of toxic metals.
Natural pigments and ideal sealers can be found in the book and course.
Concrete countertops need to be resealed regularly, just like stone.
This can be a very affordable option, especially if you DIY. There are lots of videos on how to make these, but a DIY concrete counter could be prone to cracks if you are not careful, which are difficult to repair in a non-toxic way.
Stainless Steel, Aluminum and Copper, & Zinc Counters
Wood is typically used as the underlayment for residential metal countertops, depending on the gauge, though other materials can be used as an underlayment.
Copper normally is coated in a sealer, but you can leave it raw if you don’t mind the color change.
Stainless steel can look very modern and is one of the most inert safe options for the chemically sensitive.
There is more info on stainless steel countertops and gauges in the book.
Zinc can be used as well, and left to patina like copper, but it’s far more expensive.
Solid Wood Counters
More and more, I’m seeing thick, solid slab wooden countertops.
This can be a good option if you can source a solid slab of wood.
They are typically thick, about 2 and a half inches. You can find the wood through a mill or a local woodworking supplier.
This can be relatively inexpensive compared to other options if you have access to that kind of wood. Especially if you do the installation and finishing yourself.
This example is in a bathroom, but I have seen this in kitchens as well.
You will want to use a very durable wood finish.
Butcher Block Counters
In butcher block countertops, the glues may or may not be tolerable for the chemically sensitive.
They can be affordable.
Check to make sure it’s solid wood all the way through. IKEA butcher block countertops are affordable but they are not solid all the way through. The base is particleboard.
Home Depot carries a lot of solid wood butcher block slabs.
This post is a deeper comparison of the most affordable non-toxic countertop options.
Tile Counters
This is a good option that is chemically inert.
The challenge is that safe concrete-based grout is not what is normally used for a tile countertop. Because those grouts are so porous – it’s easy to get grime, food, and dust in the grout.
You could add a densifier and a sealer, and some chemically sensitive folks do use this method with concrete-based grout because it’s safe and inexpensive. A good non-toxic grout sealer is AFM Grout Sealer.
However, this may still not be considered food-safe, depending on where you live. Generally an epoxy grout is considered food-safe because it’s less porous and more cleanable. But epoxy grouts may not be suitable for the chemically sensitive.
Tadelakt Counters
Tadelakt counters are a unique and beautiful option that are totally natural and safe.
It generally should be a darker color because it is susceptible to staining and many use a wooden edge, as the plaster edge is vulnerable. It requires upkeep.
It’s very labor-intensive, but if you do it yourself it’s very affordable.
Laminate/Formica Counters
There is some misunderstanding on whether laminate is toxic.
The top layer of laminate is melamine plastic which is quite safe, but the melamine layer has a paper backing that does off-gas formaldehyde.
The substrate that the melamine is glued down to is usually MDF. which also off-gasses formaldehyde.
The standard glues used to attach it are not benign either.
Some lines do include antimicrobials in the surface.
In the book I outline ways that you can make this countertop type much safer (some people do go with this because it’s cheaper than all other options).
Tempered Glass Counters
Tempered glass is costly and unusual but it is a very pure and totally inert option.
You are more likely to find this in a bathroom vanity top (with or without an integrated sink) than in a kitchen.
Construction Adhesive for Countertops
Silicone is most often used to attach countertops.
My preference for silicone type, brands and where to buy there are listed here.
Almighty Adhesive is a construction adhesive that can be used to attach most countertops. Though it’s usually overkill in most cases except waterfall designs.
It’s extremely tolerable for a construction adhesive and very low in toxins.
In many cases you can attach the countertops mechanically, avoiding the use of glue.
For the rest of my non-toxic kitchen series, see dedicated posts on:
Corinne Segura is an InterNACHI-certified Healthy Homes Inspector with certifications in Building Biology, Healthier Materials and Sustainable Buildings, and more. She has 10 years of experience helping others create healthy homes. You can book a consult here.
Join the top Substack on healing from MCS and mold!
Darshana Maya Greenfield
I have had Luna Pearl Granite kitchen counters since 1990, and have never sealed them.
I don’t recall the supplier mentioning if they had been sealed or not, and a cabinetmaker friend installed them. I once got a small stain from a basket of strawberries, but it faded in not that long, and it has not stained since. The only downside is that it is hard to tell if there are crumbs on it or not, until the light hits it just so! So I have to be careful and just clean whether it needs it or not! I love granite!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
it’s true i dont think people seal their granite very often at all, if ever. It very likely came sealed though. Marble is a little trickier.
Kim
I am considering Caesarstone porcelain slab for a bathroom counter top. The company website seems to list quite a few certifications (Greenguard, etc). Do you think this is a healthy/safe option? Has Caesarstone porcelain tile been tested for lead glaze? Thanks.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
They show some lead testing results for cesarstone porcelain in the TDS, so it looks good. But it wouldn’t matter if it did have lead in a bathroom countertop, the only time to be concerned about it would be the dust from cutting it, but you want to take precautions with the dust anyway because it’s going to contain Prop 65 chemicals.
Karen Montgomery
This was very helpful.
John Martin
Hey Corinne! Just wanted to say a huge thank you for your incredibly detailed guide on non-toxic kitchen countertops. Your breakdown of each material, from granite and marble to quartz and butcher block, was super helpful. I especially appreciated your insights on sealers—it’s great to know that options like Trinova and walnut oil are PFAS-free and 0-VOC. Your personal experience with Cambria Quartz and the note about minor off-gassing for the first few days was enlightening. It’s those real-life details that make your advice so valuable.
I’m currently planning a kitchen remodel and have been overwhelmed by the choices and potential health implications. Your article has given me a clearer direction and the confidence to make informed decisions. I hadn’t even considered the radon aspect of granite before reading your post. Also, the tip about using walnut oil for darker stones is a game-changer. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and making the complex world of non-toxic materials more accessible. Looking forward to exploring more of your content as I continue this journey!
Stephanie
Hello,
I’m very chemically sensitive. I’m looking for something to seal the seam in my Dekton countertop. I’m very concerned about using epoxy. Can you suggest an alternative that’s low VOC and low odor?
Thank you for this article. It helped me choose Dekton.
Stephanie.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
There is no alternative to the epoxy glues used in countertops. Those super sensitive should design a kitchen with no seams or maybe risk doing something unusual. But the epoxies usually cure out quite quickly there are are good enough for most people.
char
I am so grateful for you. Sad unable to navigate computer well. So I must always ask after long searches. I hoped to have granite panels in shower. Finding not possible for many reasons. This small cabin had some kind of ”plastic”, panels [1980?] .My goal is the least possible maintenance and these were it. Being told cheap looking, but no one knows about safety. Send tome to discourage me…showing high VOCs. I have spent a lot choosing no VOC products. Thank YOU so much. Are there any alternative low maintenance safe panels.? I am avoiding tile as hate grout maintenance. Do not want the work at my age. There must be a couple that are safe but I am unable to fond actual specs. I am being pushed now to choose. Please help me out.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Hi, yes the bathroom article has the best options. There are many materials you can use as panels, stone is certainly one of them. You have to also select the ones that have an adhesive that you do well with.
Merry
thanks for all this wonderful information. You mentioned off gassing the formica and then applying it and the. shellacking it. How long did you offgas the Formica? and if you don’t mind sharing, what contact cement would you have your friend use to apply it? I have a ULEF greenguard gold certified substrate to put it on so I’m not anticipating a huge offgas from that, but curious why you still shelac the Formica if the resin is phenol formaldehyde can be offgassed in a month or so? I’m just trying to figure out what sort of timeline I’m looking before I can put the countertops into my kitchen and I know you have so much experience in this area. thank you!
Susan
Do quartz counters contain PFAS or is that not a concern? I can’t find anything online. Our counter is greenguard certified.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Not that I know of
Nicole
Is there a countertop paint that could be used for a diy improvement over an existing laminate countertop that you would be comfortable with?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
you can check out the article on food safe paints
Anita Keetch
I couldn’t find an exact article but I heard something about putting a backsplash up when your kitchen wall is an outside wall, that mold can grow under the backsplash. I asked another building biologist and they said if it was installed correctly, this shouldn’t be a problem. What is your opinion?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
no vapor barriers on exterior walls if you use AC inside and you have a hot climate outside. It’s unrelated to how it’s installed unless you are adding an unusual detail like using schulter foam board as your backer board but I’ve never seen that in a kitchen.
Anita Keetch
I live in Utah which gets hot in the summer and we use AC inside. So… should we not put up a porcelain backsplash on the wall? I also have a kitchen downstairs in a basement. My daughter wants a backsplash on the two walls that are basically butting up against the foundation, made of concrete. Should we both not use backsplashes?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
porcelain tiles can be used if no plastic backing and breathable grout is used
Anita Keetch
Thank you. But we have a big sheet of 1/2 thick porcelain counter top that we were going to use as a backsplash. So it’s not the small tiles with grout but 1/2 inch thick porecelain counter top. I assume this would not bresthe well and would not have grout to breathe through. My daughters kitchen wall
Could use the tile and grout. But my upstairs kitchen sounds like I should not use the thick counter top as a backsplash on these exterior walls?
Anita Keetch
Or is it ok to use the 1/2 thick (quartz not porcelain, my mistake) for a backsplash on an outside wall as long as we don’t use any vapor barrier?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
quartz is a vapor barrier
Anita Keetch
Thank you so much for your knowledge and advice!
AS
Hi Corinne,
Do you have a post on adhesives for backsplash?? Does it matter from a toxicity perspective since it’s under ceramic tiles and there will be grout on top? I’ve done my research on everything – we used the AFM caulking for our countertops, but backsplashes I cannot find anything on.
Thank you in advance!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
you can usually just use regular grout & thinset, see the article on grout and thinset. In some cases you may want to use the AFM adhesive, which only works with some tiles.
Jessica M.
I was going to buy Soapstone until I learned that it’s made up of talc which naturally has asbestos. The two minerals are found together when mined and extremely difficult to remove all asbestos from talc. (See all of the talc lawsuits due to people getting cancer from using talc products) I don’t want to be over zealous but I’m having a hard time choosing something 100% safe as a countertop…
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
i just added more details to the article about dust from cutting the materials. basically any material in the article is a problem in dust form, and all are safe in solid form/once installed. but yeah soapstone is a higher risk (in dust form) than some of the other options potentially, depending on the slab.
Daphna Epstein
Thank you for this in-depth info—incredibly helpful! We just moved into a brand new apartment complex with granite countertops. It is shiny and appears sealed. What’s weird is that I frquently get grains that appear or maybe slough off the surface—though I wipe ithe counters down multiple times a day with a bon-abrasive sponge. This granular stuff that appears feels like sugar grains. (Again I diligently wipe down all food residues.) I’m starting to wonder if the stone is improperly sealed & if there is sloughing off of material is it safe or like silica, a problem. Thank you in advance for any thoughts! And thanks again for the wonderful research!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
that is very weird. I also have shiny granite in my place and have never seen that in all the 100s of places I have looked at. I would have a contractor look at it.
Hailee
The company that is installing our Cambria countertops said the following about the products they use: “” The seam glue, silicone, caulk, the cleaner used and even the dust from the faucet drillings are toxic.” Any recommendations on where to go from here?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
yes i talk about it, avoid the dust when they are cutting it, the cleaner is optional provide one of your own if youre sensitive, seam glue is unavoidable but cures fast, silicone types – use one of the better ones in my article in caulking.
Hailee
Hi! I read your part in here about natural stone where you said it can off gas radon. You said that this won’t be in all natural stone. How do I find a natural stone that does not have this?
Thanks!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Not all slabs of stone are radioactive, but I’m not sure if there is one type that never is.
Karen Chute
hi I am looking for a product to cover over new painted kitchen cabinet doors because they really smell and we’ve tried offgassing them and it’s just not working if you have a product to recommend that would be amazing
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
yes see the articles on sealing in offgassing
Loralyn Sardella
Asking for help with wood conditioning info. I’m trying to condition the top of my Ikea Stenstorp Kitchen Island to even out an area that is stained from nut butter oil.
Ikea used to sell Skydd which is a white mineral oil for food prep surfaces (it’s clear mineral oil). They discontinued it despite good reviews and sold Stockyard (linseed and tung oil) and then most likely due to terrible revues and issues discontinued it too. They have nothing currently. They recommend a “non toxic oil for food prep”.
I’m considering a mineral oil from hardware store.
https://www.canadiantire.ca/…/watco-butcher-block-wood…
or
https://www.homedepot.ca/…/saman-clear…/1001027975
I already have some Life Brand Mineral Oil (Shoppers Drug Mart) which you can drink and saw a youtube vid with a woman using it on her cutting boards. Is there really a difference between these oils? I know there are different mineral oils, but the labels don’t say a lot. There are two pharmaceutical mineral oils, heavy and light. I have both because they sold me the wrong one. Using it would save me money especially since I need such a small amount. You can drink the heavy one and I’m wondering if this may suffice? Wondering if you could shed light on what would make these mineral oils different? Also any advice would be appreciated.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
Is the idea that you disguise the stain well enough to return it in two days?
What kind of oil did you spill? And was it pure oil?
Both of those links are food safe mineral oils, so both can be used on a butcher block. Im not certain they will disguise a spill of nut oil because the colors are different. Mineral oil does not have a tint to it and also is a temporary conditioner it does not polymerise and soak in the same way as linseed, tung and walnut oil.
it would be best to use something like walnut oil which has some color to i, however that will not cure in two days. it will also darken it a little, which will probably disguise whatever oil you spilled better but will not look as as much like the original wood color.
Im not positibe if mineral oil will look dry in two days either. Light mineral oil is what is used on wood as the heavy might be too sticky and not soak in as well but it might work. I don’t use mineral oil but have tested walnut, tung and linseed. You can test the mineral oil in th backside.
Loralyn Sardella
The stains are from leaking nut butter jars and yes pure oil. One was almond and the other macadamia nut. I didn’t realize the paper towel hadn’t absorbed it all and let them sit there a while. They darkened the wood a bit, so yes I thought if I oil the rest of it, I may be able to make it look less obvious and also brighten up the whole thing since you are meant to treat it occasionally. It does need to remain the same colour. I can’t make it too much darker. The top has lightened a bit over the years and I think the oil treatment is expected to make it richer and back to the darkness it started with so to speak. Most of it is perfect like new except for one area. I know this won’t totally disguise the stains, but may make them blend in a bit more with natural wood grain colour.
It doesn’t have to be dry in two days, but I have to be able to take pictures and have it look the way it will long term. If they accept my application the return date is unknown as of yet.
My understanding is food oils which are not heated will go rancid over time and that would ruin this item for the future owners. It is not normally recommended to use raw oils. Is there some sort of double boiled walnut oil? I didn’t see anything like that at Home Depot or Canadian Tire and I’m pretty limited to what I can get and apply in one day. Most of the walnut stains are too dark, but stain would be different from oil I assume? The top is a butcher block counter top, but no one would use it to cut food on. It is truly a table top so to speak. but it does need to be food safe and optional to use to cut on.
This product https://www.homedepot.ca/product/interbuild-hardwax-wood-oil-food-safe-voc-free-carbon-neutral-clear-250-ml/1001678719 was also recommended by Home Depot, but it confuses me. I think it may seal the wood which I don’t want as it’s meant to be periodically conditioned.
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
i would go with walnut oil that is made for wood or linseed oil that is made for wood (and solvent free and ideally food safe). The nut oil stains are quite dark so i think you will need one of those oils to disguise it. Pure ideally. no stain. no wax as that adds sheen. the one you linked to has wax and also solvents that are slightly unpleasant.
Laura
What about Dolomite counters?
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
needs to be sealed like the other light colored stones i talk about
Nancy
Hello!
Thank you so much for these articles!
What is the safest seal for a butcher block cutting table?
Thanks!
Corinne Segura, Building Biologist
i have some options listed out here https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2020/10/the-7-most-affordable-non-toxic-countertops.html
Sarah
The house I bought has granite countertops in the kitchen. I’ve dreaded the prospect of re-sealing when the time comes. Water beads up on them, so I’m assuming there’s no need to reseal. However there are places where the stone was cut that are a bit ruddy due to the stone itself. I think it’s always been that way. Would you recommend I seal or does that just sound like how granite is? Not a big fan of granite, but it’s what I’m stuck with for now.
Corinne Segura
if it’s not at risk of being damanged then you dont need to seal it. also many very dark granites dont need a sealer at all. if the water does start soaking in the walnut oil is amazing.
Sarah
Thank you so much, Corinne! I’ve never used nut oils for fear of them going rancid. Is there a version to use for this kind of application that would avoid that? (PS Your new site is absolutely gorgeous! What a massive undertaking that must have been. But it was worth it. It’s beautiful! Congratulations!)
Corinne Segura
I’m glad you like the new design! the soapstone sealer in the post is fantastic ive tested it on so many things. just make sure if fully cures before you start washing it and it wont go rancid.
Bree H
Hi Corrine,
Great article, my builders are giving us three options for our new home cesar stone stone benches or laiminate through Laminex or Formica. Would cesarstone be the best option in low tox ness I get worried about it being silica but it’s safe when installed I keep reading ? Is it safer than laminate ? Thanks for sharing your info love your website so much
Corinne
cesarstone quartz is great and is not a risk when in place. safer than laminate in terms of offgassing.
CAROLE J ROSEN
Hi Corinne,
Thank you for the marvelous blogs and all of your amazing research. You are very much appreciated!
I am installing a Cambria countertop. My fabricator is using all green materials for installation which I found for him. However, I did ok an epoxy that Cambria makes (especially to match color of this countertop) which is Greenguard Gold and low VOC.
My question to you is that he wants to use denatured alcohol to clean the epoxy up and I don’t like the way that product sounds. Do you have any suggestions about what other product he could use to clean up the epoxy?. He said acetone can also be used but he felt that would be even worse. Do you agree that denatured alcohol is bad? If so, what can I give him to replace it? Thank you and awaiting your reply! Carole
Corinne
use alcohol it evaporates quickly
Tanya Waugh
hi! this research is unparalleled!
I’m looking into peel and stick counter top covers because I can’t get mine redone right away.
do you know of any with minimal to no off gassing? or can you recommend a sealant that would be ok to use over paper.
thanks!
Corinne
The peel and stick contact paper is always vinyl so I can’t recommend that. I suppose you could shellac over it which will yellow it and is also hard to put on evenly. I’m not sure if that’s a good idea (for durability as well). if you have laminate countertops consider using linseed oil paint to renew them (I talk about it on the site if you want more info).
Lisa
Curious about linoleum / marmoleum for countertop?
I know it will depend on adhesive but rehabbing a small cabin. Little area.
Also any info on CraftMade cabinets by Kenyon Noble? Some plywood in them.
Not KraftMade. Lowes / HD
Thanks
Corinne
I know some people use Furniture Linoleum (natural linoleum by Forbo) for countertops but it’s not really made for that and I don’t have experience with it. They say it’s for furniture applications such as desks, stools, cabinet fronts, doors and displays. The glue used with it is 0 VOC and water-based to should be fine. I wouldn’t consider that a very durable countertop but it sounds like it works for some people.
Caroline Smythe
What about using the floor marmoleum that has a protective sealer (Topshield2)? Sounds like it would hold up on a counter.
Corinne
You can use it on a countertop, I wouldn’t personally just because you can’t cut on it at all and I don’t think that’s very realistic. Topshield is a very thin clear coat on top.
Karlie Smith
Thanks for this list! I’m reading up to learn more about quartz for our kitchen. It’s nice to know that quartz countertops are non-toxic and safe for families, especially children.
Kara
Hello!! Do you worry about the talc in soapstone? For the asbestos? Thank you!
Corinne
No stone dust is safe to breath, takes precautions when cutting any stone, all is safe when in place as a countertop.
Merlyn James Yohannan
Thanks for all the valuable information. The underside of granite countertop is always dusty. Im concerned how to clean that. Do you have any suggestions. Thanks
Meredith
Is Caesarstone safe once installed or is there still a risk of silicosis? This is for a potential countertop in a laundry room. Thank you!
Corinne
safe when installed, only a risk when in dust form
Erica
What do you suggest for sealing a Quartz countertop?
Lou
The link to the concrete countertops with no fly ash is broken.
Corinne
The link works for me http://www.buddyrhodes.com/concrete-countertop-mix
Carmen
Hi Corinne,
I love your page and use it very often so thank you.
Do you have a recommendation for non toxic glue to attach laminate sheets to old laminate countertop?
thanks again!
Corinne
Ah contact adhesive, they are all toxic at first, it would be about finding which one cures fast. I haven’t tested across brands.
Monica
Hello!
Thank you for a very informative article! I have a question regarding solid surface. What is your opinion on Wilsonart? I noticed it wasn’t mentioned in the article.
Also, it has a UL GreenGuard Gold Certification. Do you know what this means and if it’s something to look for?
Thank you, again!
Corinne
I haven’t looked at that one but solid surface should always mean acrylic or polyester without ground up stone, with alumina. They are way way below the Green Guard Gold levels of VOCs so that certification is not useful here. A countertop at the upper levels of that certification would actually be quite unusual and I wouldn’t list something that high in offgassing here most likely since there are so many better options.
Jessica Pearlman
Hi Corinne
You say above that
“But most tile counters are not made with concrete grout. More toxic grouts are usually used in this application.” what kinds of toxic elements are in these grouts? VOCs? biocides? Other?
Thank you very much.
—Jessica
Corinne
VOCs
Universal Stone
Lots of good pointers here. I hope this post could help a lot of homeowners looking to buy new kitchen countertops!
Mandi
Hi Corrinne! The link to the concrete mix no longer works. What is the name of the brand? And also, I can’t find that AFM product to seal the concrete countertops. Do they still make that? Thanks so much!
Corinne
I updated that link. You have to contact GDC for that product.
Joanna
Hello. Do you know if the AFM Almighty can be used to do seams with granite instead of Epoxy? Do you know if silicone adhesive is needed to attach the granite to the cabinets. It is pushed by the contractor. is this really necessary when the counter is so heavy?
Thanks in advance.
Corinne
It’s not a replacement for epoxy. I would use silionce underneath but check out the video in the caulking post. Silicone is not too difficult to tolerate if you get the right one. It is possible to go without it, I have done it but you have to check the warranty implications. I cannot advise to do it but I did it….
Eli Richardson
I’m glad you talked about countertop materials and how to choose a non-toxic one. Recently, my wife and I decided we’d like to renovate our house. We’re excited to start with our kitchen, and since we want new countertops, we’re sure your article will help us choose the right material for us! Thanks for the information on how granite countertops are safe to use.
Joanna
Hello
I am looking for a natural sealer for marble or granite. I have read all your posts. I prefer to not use the synthetics despite being low VOC. Problem is my daughter is anaphylactic to walnuts so walnut oil is out. She is okay with almonds, macadamian nuts and hazelnuts. Could I use almond oil or olive oil? Would these go rancid?
Universal Stone
Great Post! Thanks for sharing this useful information!
Barb
Hi Corinne,
I need a sealer to go on a stone shelf that keeps oil stains off of the shelf. Suggestions? In Canada. Can’t get 511
Thankyou in advance
Corinne
Well I definitely wouldn’t use 511! I would use one of the sealers in this article, depending on the stone.
Barb
Thankyou for your reply. OIL is the culprit. Will any nontoxic sealers protect rock from oil?
Thankyou in advance.
Corinne
Yes, it depends on the stone here is my testing results of the natural oils on multiple stones https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2020/08/natural-non-toxic-sealers-for-stone-countertops.html
kate
Is the JS Crystal Clear Cure & Seal for concrete a product you would recommend, it claims to be low VOC but i have struggled to find further information on it.
Corinne
It’s not low VOC, it’s is a solvent-based product with less than 350
g/L VOC’s. That’s pretty high!
Lesley
What are your recommendations for sealers to be used on polished granite or quartzite? As far as I can tell, you only mention sealers for unpolished stone. Thanks in advance!
Corinne
see articles on natural and synthetic stone sealers
Grace
It looks like Meta Creme changed its name to Waterborne Dense Stone Sealer. Do you know if the product is the same? I am looking to seal quartzite and tile in the kitchen and bathroom. Is this the best and most non-toxic I am going to get for a sealer? Should I be concerned about the MSDS about tests they did where they have a check next to Reproductivity? I think
meaning it can be harmful for that.
Corinne
I’ll ask them but usually it would say improved formula or something like that if it changed. Let’s see…
Diane
Do you have any suggestions on cabinets for kitchen and bath. I am looking at crystal cabinets ( painted ) and I read wood cabinets 4 less. Although unsure of who to go with. Any suggestions on this. Also if anyone has any experience with either companies with off gassing, especially if painted cabinets.
Nelly
For those of us who can’t remodel their kitchen counters, does a non-toxic “stick and peel” or counter top cover exist?
Anna
Ice Stone now includes a built in sealer. They said it was a new addition, to make it more convenient for the consumer (no more yearly sealing). They were not willing to share with me the ingredient details, as they said it is proprietary info. However, they did give me a generalized statement on it. May I share it with you? I am unsure if I should get their product because of the built in sealer.
Anna
Ice Stone now includes a built in sealer. They said it was a new addition, to make it more convenient diverge consumer (no more yearly sealing). They were not willing to share with me the ingredient details, as they said it is proprietary info. However, t get did give me a generalized statement on it. May I share it with you? I am unsure if I should get they product because of the built in sealer.
blindsandshutters
this is so beautiful! I love the color and how it goes with the pots and the succulents just give it that perfect mediterranean feeling! thanks for showing! :o)
Nhà Bếp Hoàng Gia
This article is really the one that I needed. I really learned a lot by reading the whole content. Thanks for this.
Maria Elena
Great work!
Unknown
Thanks for sharing!
Unknown
If you are looking at remodeling your kitchen and want to keep it safe without the chemicals and formaldehyde
JerryWalton
nice one….
Unknown
I have MCS and CFS and my big challenge is the range. I don't use gas ranges, but I struggle to find an electric oven that I can use without it making me very ill, with daily use for the first year. When I had to get a new one 5 years ago, I tried running it while I was out of the house, etc., but ended up giving it to a friend to off-gas. Hoping it will be okay now. Now in the market for a refrigerator, and not sure what to do. Don't have an outlet in the garage that can accommodate a fridge. Wish there were more options for people like us.
Corinne
A lot of people do the garage strategy. A small fridge using a regular plug.
Unknown
Hi Corinne, You wrote "The [faucets] I have seen that are 100% lead-free are made of 100% solid stainless steel." Since Parmir tested positive, do you have another lead free faucet recommendation that is reasonably priced? thanks!
Parmir claims to make 100% lead-free faucets but a client used these lead swabs to test a kitchen and bathroom faucet and the test proved positive.
The other options for 100% lead-free faucets are pricy. MGS an Italian company and Waterstone Faucets also make 100% stainless faucets. Another one I have seen is this one called Jerry.
Fern Lady
I am very chemically sensitive & need a new washer/dryer unit. Any recommendations or ideas?
Lindsay Craig
Hi Corrine, my husband and I have just purchased our first home and although I have not been tested for MCS I know I am very sensitive to inorganic chemicals and materials, as well as my son. I am not well versed in your area of expertise so I am trying my best to get a quick, as thorough as possible, education on these subjects as we are crunched for time.
We are redoing our floors in solid raw hardwood and was wondering your thoughts on Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus? We also are planning on doing a nail in installation but not sure what exactly is underneath the current floors. Seeing if we have to get soft plywood is there certain brands you would recommend? And considering we get the lowest VOC possible how long on average does it take for soft plywood to off gas?
Lastly, we are taking out the upper cabinets in the kitchen and putting in solid wood exposed shelving but plan to extend counter top space. I'm not sure what kind of cabinets are currently installed but its like there is a think plastic sticker covering the particle or what board underneath. We are wanting to just take them all out to not have to match these. So hopefully we can salvage some older off gassed cabinets, but if not I was wondering if you have any thoughts or knowledge on ikea cabinets considering they adhere to a higher standard than the US. I came across this option here: https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/non-toxic-kitchen-cabinets-for-project-one-eleven/
Any thoughts? I do plan on having an Austin Air to help with these two renovations.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey and knowledge with us all. You are very much appreciated.
Charles R Bailey Cabinetmakers
Using Ikea cabinetry is not exactly safe. As you have to deal with pressed board. That has formaldehyde and takes forever to outgass. If your looking for safe, formaldehyde free, chemical free cabinets check us out. We would love to talk to you and help you out on your cabinetry.
Corinne
Hi Lindsay, Yes there is certainly a lot of info to get through! A lot of this is talked about on the blog.
Bonnie B.
I am very sensitive to chemicals and may need a new refrigerator. Also, all of my family has died of cancers (my siblings in their 40s) and I have an autoimmune disease and asthma. What can be done to have a fridge that doesn't outgas a lot of plastic into the food in it? And are the compressors always smelly and need to be run ahead of installation? I read the tips listed above, but am wondering what other thoughts people might have for me. Any suggestions on a brand? (Also – we can't have a really small fridge as we need a family sized one.) Thanks much.
Corinne
I have heard conflicting things about which ones are better. You may find a floor model that has offgassed or leave it in the garage running for a bit. As for which brand or type is the best for offgassing there isn't much agreement, you have to sniff a few of them if you can stand the exposures. You would think stainless would be better but that's not what I have seen.
Charles R Bailey Cabinetmakers
Are you looking for custom, solid wood, formaldehyde free cabinets & furniture? We can build your custom project with chemical free woods & finishes.
Walsh Built Homes
I just stumbled upon this blog and wanted to share a cabinet line we use in our homes that is conscious of keeping the toxins out of kitchens. http://Www.walcraftcabinetry.com . hope this helps someone ;0)
Laurisa Rich
waste of time. I just went to your website and no mention is made of low-toxicity materials and no certifications.
Ana john
Don't waste your money on these pans. they work for a few weeks, but after that you'll be using more and more oil to keep food from sticking. Eventually even the oil won't help. One of the worst kitchen utensils I ever bought.
Corinne
Not sure what you are referring to!
Anonymous
I'm really chemically sensitive and am responding to my new Cambria kitchen countertops which were sprayed using a granite solution at installation. Does anybody have any ideas or recommendations?
http://classicquartzstone.com
Corinne
They should avoid spraying them with this cleaning product at installation. You will have to wash it off on sides where you can reach it.
scotty123
InovaStone has been providing quality natural stone worktops to individual and corporate consumers since 2000. Supplying you with just the best of service, our team are completely licensed to template worktops which they later on cut and polish in our work spaces, and finally return to match by the similar team.
Unknown
l
Looking for a non toxic utility sink. Anyone have any ideas? Is there any off gassing with a stainless steal sink? Didn't want that look but I can not find a utility sink that is not plastic. Porcelain will chip and is expensive.
Corinne
Stainless does not offgas but might have insulation underneath that does.
Jayeed Baq
Cambria Quartz in your tiny home and it's absolutely beautiful. Color combination of kitchen is really amazing. Thanks for this insightful article.
Kelly Bailey
I had a set of cabinets built for my home from a cabinetmaker in Flippin, AR. He made a gorgeous set of cabinets that were chemical free/formaldhyde free, all solid wood. When I got them delivered to my home I was really worried about smells, but when I got close to them and even sat next to them they didn't smell and there wasn't any off gassing of any kind. I've had my cabinets in my home now for about a year and still no problems. Love them!
Corinne
How far is their geographical range for kitchen and bathroom cabinets?
Kelly Bailey
nation wide
Alyssa
That is so weird. I am from there. Would you mind sharing their information?
Corinne
They are talking about their family member’s business: Charles Baily cabinets.
Unknown
How are you suppose to test for radioactivity & lead in the counter tops and in tiles etc? We are looking into buying a home and I am a little overwhelmed at all the crap in our environment and all the possible and probable contaminants. Its starting to seem impossible to buy a safe home and is almost starting to get to the point where we are just going to have to pick and choose what is absolutely necessary and what we can deal with.
Corinne
Granite you can test for radioactivity and glazed tiles for lead – if you want to be super careful.
K
Do you need to test Danby marble for radioactivity and/or radon?
Corinne
Many natural stones could have some radon but granite is the only one that is normally tested because it’s the one that could have “significant” levels. Though personally I wouldn’t test it if it was for myself because it’s not significant enough.
Bob Lowe
Great post. Lots of good information. A quartz counter top seem ideal for keeping things clean and not harboring bacteria. What exactly do they use to for a sealant and resin that would last a long time but also be toxic free. Does it last as long as normal sealant?
Mark W.
Great writing
Simon Upping
Thanks Corinne
Simon Upping
Hi I'm sourcing for furniture for my new home and am considering aluminium furniture. However I came across sites that says that aluminum is toxic. But aluminium makers said they are not. One said that their's is made from aluminium allow grade 6063-T5 and that its non-toxic. Can anyone clarify? Thanks very much for your help.
Corinne
Aluminum itself is not toxic. The paints on it may be. Powder-coated is best as it cures quickly and should be tolerable.
Corinne
Hi, that is about ingesting it or breathing in the dust.
Simon Upping
Thanks Corrine. I tried to google aluminium toxicity of furnishings but could not find any. What I discovered was warnings linked to cookware and foil and breathing in aluminium. Could there be a danger that since the aluminium furniture is a permanent fixture, we are breathing in aluminium? Thanks very much for your input.
Veronica George
What did you mean you didn't use glue to fasten your quartz countertop? How did you secure it?
Corinne
It is just sitting there. The sink holds it in place but it is heavy enough that it doesn't move. You can mechanically fasten it or silicone or AFM Almighty Adhesive.
Sue Houston
Lovely post.
Linda Rowe
I'm very chemically sensitive and am reacting to my new Cambria countertops that were sprayed with a granite cleaner at installation. I contacted Cambria USA and learned that the resin is polyester-based – I am highly sensitive to polyester! Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions? We're currently looking at the granite cleaner and what would remove a possible residue. However, my reactions [respiratory and neurological] have me thinking the problem is the resin. I thought I would be good with these Greenguard counters, but so far is it not good.
Corinne
yeah, I caught them just as they were putting that cleaner on and we washed it thoroughly with vinegar outside before it was brought in. The cleaner smell should not have soaked in those as it is no porous. As I mentioned it did have a smell for the first few days. I would just give it a while and if that doesn't get better put it outside for a while. it will offgas
Corinne
Hi Linda, did the cambria quartz ever offgas enough for you?
Anonymous
Thanks for the article! I want to install Cambria in my kitchen but am concerned about what "glue" will be used for a seam. Also, I would like a glass backsplash but am not certain about the adhesive. I am VERY chemically sensitive. Can you advise how you handle the Cambria?
Corinne
Depending on which Cambria material it might not have seams.
Keri Smith
I've been playing with the idea of installing Marble or granite countertops in my kitchen. I agree that having a chemical free kitchen is important. Thanks for the article!
Anonymous
Hello,
What do you think about soapstone countertops and are you familiar with paperstone countertops?
Anonymous
Made from recycled paper. VOC free, food safe no radon. They are a good use for recycled material.
SYoungquist
Hello,As you've done quite a bit of research, I was wondering if you had come across or had any thoughts on Columbia Forest Product's Purebond plywood for cabinets. Supposedly with it's soy binder, the off gassing and VOC's are not as much of a problem. I'm considering this for our cabinets (possibly with solid-wood faces) in our kitchen, and am looking for informed opinions. Thanks!
wowwnc
I love your blog!Thank you for creating it to give help & hope to others.Do you have recommendations (brand names) for small, low EMF refrigerators?Much appreciation to you.
Corinne
Hi, I don't know that there is a low EMF refrigerator as the coils needed to cool it produce quite a lot of EMFs.
Anonymous
Is a gas stove really bad to have? Do you think running the hood fan,having a properly maintained range, opening a window and having lots of plants in the house, takes care of the fumes?
Corinne
If you have Chronic Fatigue or other chronic illness I would avoid it for sure. Or if you are at risk for autoimmune diseases. If you are building and have an option I would for sure choose electric.
Anonymous
Thanks for the reply.
Epoxy resins Services
Such a Great house and nice post.