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In the post-Covid world, working from home is a new norm. And it means we spend more time indoors than ever before. Therefore, we must strive for a non-toxic home for better living conditions. According to Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality can be 2 to 5 times worse than outdoor air quality. The main factors damaging air quality are the increased use of synthetic furnishings, pesticides, personal care products, and household cleaners. This article will share ten tips to improve your quality of life and have a toxin-free home.
1. Place Entry Mats
Entry mats are the first defense against the dirt you bring on your shoes. Dirt is full of harmful microorganisms and chemicals. The best approach is to have a dirt-resistant and absorbent antimicrobial mat. These mats prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi and prevent the transfer of dirt. Shop an entry mat wisely as its first line of protection against pollutants.
2. Check for Asbestos Presence
If your home was built before 1980, there is a possibility that asbestos might still be present in building materials, walls, and pipes. Asbestos exposure can lead to several serious health issues. Therefore, hiring a professional and requesting a detailed house inspection is imperative. If asbestos presence is confirmed by the professional, get your walls and pipes treated immediately, or if you’re living in a rental, move as soon as possible. Moreover, it would be best to seek medical advice because asbestos is the almost exclusive cause of mesothelioma. There are organizations like Mesothelioma Hope providing one-stop resources and support for mesothelioma. You can contact various doctors through their website and learn more about mesothelioma treatments and how to cope with the disease if you receive a positive diagnosis.
3. Incorporate Indoor Plants
You can style your home with indoor plants and, at the same time, improve air quality. They reduce air toxins, acting as natural air purifiers that enhance your home’s beauty. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and other chemicals and convert it into oxygen. Some of the plants, like Sword fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), dragon tree (Dracaena marginata), and rubber fig (Ficus elastica), are known for their air-purifying abilities.
4. Use a HEPA Filter
The next tip is to use HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtered vacuum cleaners and air purifiers. HEPA filter can theoretically remove 99.97% of pollutants within the size of 0.3 microns (µm). It will ensure you breathe cleaner air and improve your and your family’s well-being. You must clean HEPA filters periodically and replace them in due time to keep your home contaminant free.
5. Ventilate Your Home
When your indoor environment doesn’t have fresh air, you will end up with stale, poor-quality air that can cause breathing difficulties and unpleasant odors. Air quality is impacted by cooking, chemicals= in air fresheners, and scented candles. It is advised to open windows regularly so air can circulate and toxins trapped indoors can escape. Proper ventilation will keep your home healthy and fresh.
6. Cut Down on Plastic
Plastic is widely used in bottles, food containers, and food wrappers. Previously most plastic products contained BPA (Bisphenol A), causing severe health concerns. There are a few alternates like BPS (Bisphenol S) and BPF (Bisphenol F), but various studies prove BPS and BPF are not 100% safe for health since BPS and BPF have similar chemical structures as BPA. Therefore, we advise using glass, cast iron, or stainless steel as alternatives.
7. Filter Your Water
We cannot survive without water, but polluted or contaminated water can cause serious diseases and infections. The first step is to test the water quality. You can DIY at home with a simple kit or order a detailed test from an EPA-certified lab. Tap water may contain harmful contaminants, and there are various sources of these contaminants, such as lead due to corrosion in water pipes, pesticides entering water sources, and more. You can choose the right water filter for your home based on the severity of the contamination. When installing a water filter, look for filters that at least meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and NSF International standards. Reverse Osmosis (RO) water filtration systems are a pricier option but a better solution.
8. Skip Pesticides
We use pesticides to cure infestations. Pesticides are chemicals or bioagents that kill roaches, mice, ants, and other pests. But little do we know that constant exposure and overexposure may lead to health issues, especially in children. Pesticides contain chemicals such as organophosphate and carbamate, which can enter the air and affect air quality. So, to overcome pest issues, use simple alternatives like cleaning food residue, washing dishes properly, and sealing any cracks in walls and windows.
9. Avoid Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, release harmful chemicals into the air. The effect is known as “off-gas.” Off-gassing can last till the product’s life, but it wears off with time. These VOCs threaten us as irritants in the short term and can lead to serious long-term issues. Off-gassing may be caused by new mattresses, furniture, rugs, and many other household products. To have a toxin-free home opt for natural fiber rugs and wood furniture with a wax finish. Choose paints and sealants specially formulated with low or no VOCs. If low VOC furniture is not an option, then ensure to unwrap furniture outdoors. Store it outside for a few days to avoid the initial release of VOCs indoors.
10. Say No to Toxic Products
From scented candles to body sprays and floor cleaners to handwash, everything you use in your home must be safe. Know your products, ask questions, and opt for organic offerings. You can research SkinSafe or alternate websites, helping you skip products that contain harmful chemicals like endocrine disruptors, irritants, etc. Avoid scented candles or choose candle burner lamps that ensure smoke-free fragrance. Use natural cleaning products like vinegar and baking soda instead of bleach and other chemicals.
Conclusion
We can take small steps and gradually become accustomed to a cleaner, safer lifestyle by significantly reducing our exposure to toxins indoors. We can create a healthier environment by using natural products, skipping plastics, and keeping our homes clean and ventilated. Be consistent, make small changes, and you’ll achieve your goal of having a toxin-free home.
