Many people are spending an increased amount of time in their homes to prevent the spread of COVID-19. If you’re one of the many people hunkering down inside, it’s important to make sure your home is a healthy place for you and your little ones. For tips on how to create a healthy home environment, continue reading.
Avoid Chemical-based Cleaning Products
Keeping your home clean and free of germs is especially important in today’s climate—and it’s also important to use the right cleaning products to do so. Traditional cleaning products can contain hazardous chemicals that are dangerous to inhale and that can result in air quality issues in your home. To create a healthy living environment in your home, opt for non-toxic cleaners. You could even consider making your own cleaning solution by simply combining water and white vinegar and adding some essential oils. White vinegar will act as a disinfectant to destroy bacteria and viruses, while essential oils will improve the scent of the solution.
Minimize Air Pollutants
When you’re spending so much time inside, it’s important to ensure the air you’re breathing doesn’t contain large quantities of harmful pollutants. Common air pollutants such as dust, pet dander, VOCs, chemicals, and bacteria can have a range of negative health impacts—from minor eye, nose, and throat irritation to serious respiratory issues. To improve the indoor air quality of your home, make sure to dust, sweep, and vacuum regularly. Another effective way to improve your home’s air quality is to invest in a quality ventilation system that will flush toxins out of your home.
Control Moisture Levels
Mold thrives in damp, moist environments. As such, when moisture levels in a home are too high, mold can start to grow. In addition to damaging the surfaces on which it lives, mold can be hazardous to one’s health. As mold grows, it releases spores into the air. Exposure to these spores can result in several health issues, such as eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation as well as headaches and worsening asthma symptoms. To prevent dangerous mold outbreaks in your home, keep moisture levels under control. Generally, humidity levels in a home should be around 40 to 50 percent. If moisture levels are too high, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce them.
