Home is where we feel safe and rested. However, it takes an effort and commitment to create a home that’s comfortable and clean. A healthy home environment means a healthy space for everyone living in the house.
A safe and comfortable home is necessary for your physical, mental, and emotional health. To create that space, you need to consider several factors that can influence how the home feels. Creating a healthy home is challenging because we are constantly exposed to chemicals or toxins everywhere.
Nonetheless, there are things you can do to maintain a healthy home environment for the family. It is crucial, especially when you have children at home.
Avoid toxic products
You may not avoid all toxic products, but there are things you can do to reduce their use and exposure. Opt for non-toxic cleaners. Substitute this with eco-friendly cleaners, which are safe for the environment and humans. You can find many options for non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaners in the market, or you can make your own using natural ingredients such as baking soda. It is affordable and can be an all-around cleaner.
Another way to reduce the use of toxic cleaners is to use microfiber cloths when cleaning since it attracts and absorbs dirt more. Aside from cleaners, pesticides and repellents can contain toxic chemicals.
Open the windows
Poor indoor air quality is caused by poor ventilation. It will also promote mold growth, which can irritate the nose and lungs and trigger an allergic reaction in some people.
The easiest way to improve ventilation is to open the windows around the house. It will promote air circulation and prevent stagnant air. The clean air outside can help flush out pollutants inside the home. If you have air conditioning or a heater, make sure to clean the system regularly.
Aside from improved air ventilation, opening the window allows the sunlight to come in. The UV rays can kill bacteria and help significantly in improving your mood.
Add some plants
Adding plants indoors can improve your health because they breathe in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Plants can absorb harmful toxins and improve the overall air condition indoors.
Plus, greenery has therapeutic effects on the mind, body, and soul. Popular indoor plants are Snake Plant, Aloe Vera, and Spider Plant. The presence of plants can freshen and calm our surroundings.
House cleaning
Keeping a regular schedule for cleaning is one of the keys to maintaining a healthy home. To avoid feeling overwhelmed with cleaning, you can do it by space by space. For deep cleaning, set a dedicated day because it will usually take more time.
When cleaning your kitchen, pay specific attention to the countertop, cutting board, and sponges because this is where cross-contamination can happen. Have separate boards for raw meat and vegetables. For the countertop, make sure to sanitize after every use and eliminate the presence of bacteria in sponges; put it in a microwave for two minutes and air dry it after.
Dust is also another concern in the house because it can trigger various health issues such as asthma and allergies. Using a vacuum and keeping the house well ventilated can help reduce dust.
Check for unsafe condition
Doing maintenance checks is part of keeping the home environment safe and healthy. Examples of unsafe conditions are water leaks or structural damage. Check your attic for any water leaks, as this may compromise your ventilation and cause further damage. For older homes, have an asbestos inspection or lead paint testing to prevent serious health problems.
Eliminate Pests
Keep pests out of the house because it carries various diseases, especially when you have kids. Some opt to use pesticides, but it exposes you to harmful chemicals. The best way to deal with pesticides is to prevent them from coming. Store food properly, and avoid leaving leftovers on the table or countertop. If you have pets, keep them clean using medicated soap. There is also plenty of natural pest repellent you can use that is much safer when you have kids.
Be careful with toxic gas
Carbon monoxide poisoning and radon are some of the common gas poisonings that can happen in your home. Radon is a radioactive gas from uranium when it breaks down in the soil. It is colorless and odorless and can only be detected using a test kit, which you can find in stores.
Carbon monoxide is also odorless gas that can easily cause intoxication and death. This gas is caused by incomplete burning of fuel such as kerosene and propane. Make sure your heating system and other fuel-burning equipment are functioning correctly. Installing a carbon monoxide detector can help detect early poisoning.
Wash your sheets regularly
The bedroom is our intimate space, but it is often overlooked. Humans shed millions of cells daily, along with other dirt such as dander and sweat. Washing the sheets regularly minimizes the risk of carrying all the bacteria and dirt while we are sleeping. It also reduces the risk of molds in the room.
Conclusion
From regular cleaning routines to reducing the presence of toxic substances at home and making sure the overall structures of the house are safe and secured, maintaining a healthy home is hard work. You can ensure a safe environment to live in with these smart steps taken.
