The study by HealthyStuff.org, part of the nonprofit Ecology Center, tested 65 vinyl floors and found that 58 percent had phthalates. The samples were purchased from major home improvement retailers.

Interior wood shutters, or even vinyl shutters, add color, texture and a unique beauty to your windows. They ensure privacy, and maybe surprising to many, they also provide added window insulation.

For vinyl or composite shutters, you can use slightly more water, but avoid over-wetting wooden shutters as that can damage the finish or cause warping. If you’re dealing with stubborn grime, a ...