For some reason, a lot of people believe that our homes shelter us from pollutants. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. In many cases, the air quality in our homes can be just as bad as it is outside, if not more. With the tons of different chemicals that we’re using every day, we expose ourselves to all types of airborne particles that could have negative impacts on our overall health. In this article, we’re going to give you a few tips on how you can keep the level of toxins in your environment to a minimum.
Go for Organic Bedding
Not only is organic bedding more susceptible to being sustainably sourced and equitable, it also tends to be free of many harmful chemicals that can be found in non-organic products. For instance, did you know that no wrinkle polyester bedding is treated with a permanent-press formaldehyde-based resin to prevent it from wrinkling? This resin becomes an irremovable and permanent part of the fabric and constantly releases formaldehyde fumes during its lifespan. Formaldehyde has been linked to things like skin rashes, respiratory issues, insomnia, and fatigue just to name a few.
One way to resolve this issue is by either going for knit cotton jersey, cotton flannel, or untreated organic cotton. Brands like SOL Organics, for instance, sell organic cotton bedding that is free of formaldehyde, phthalates, and toxic chemicals.
Purify the Air with Greenery
Try to keep your windows open as much as you can to facilitate ventilation. Also, make sure that you add some greenery here and there to purify the air as well. Make sure that you add fresh flowers or various herbs around the house like sage and rosemary to avoid using air fresheners. Baking soda is another great way to keep the air clean without using chemical ridden products.
Look Out for Mold
If you live in a very humid environment, you have to do everything in your power to keep moisture to a minimum inside your house. Not only will it make it more comfortable, it will minimize the risk of mold and mildew growing. Regularly clean areas that are prone to mildew and mold, like beneath sinks and around showers and tubs. Also, check areas for leaks or moisture accumulation, especially basements.
Go for Green or Homemade Cleaning Products
In addition to being a natural air freshener, did you know that baking soda is a great stain remover as well? There are tons of products you can use around the house instead of traditional cleaners that work just as well. Vinegar can be used as a replacement for bleach and can be used to clean windows and hardwood floors when mixed with water. Baking soda works particularly well on tiles and hydroxide peroxide can be used as a spot cleaner on fabrics.
Minimize Dust Around the House
Dust particles can be full of toxins and bacteria and you shouldn’t wait until it becomes visible to do something. You should dust every surface around the house at least once every week. You should also vacuum as much as you can as well. But try to go for HEPA filters as they can capture a wider range of particles and allergens than other options on the market.
Making your home free of toxins and harmful pollutants will improve the general health of the inhabitants and make it a true sanctuary for you and your family.
