10 Tips for a Healthy Home

Many consumer products release toxic chemicals that pollute the air (and dust!) inside your home. Levels of air pollutants can be two to five times higher indoors than outdoors—sometimes, as much as 100 times higher. Given that people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, it’s important to take steps to reduce your exposures.

healthy home tipsPut you and your family on a path to better health with these simple tips:

  1. Dump chemical air fresheners, scented candles, and potpourri. When choosing candles, look for ones made of beeswax.
  2. When cooking, use a stove fan that vents to the outside. Open windows periodically to air out your home.
  3. Keep dust levels low by vacuuming with a HEPA filter and wiping surfaces with a damp rag or mop.
  4. Avoid household cleaners labeled antibacterial and products containing fragrance. 
  5. Get rid of mothballs.
  6. Steer clear of pesticides. Control household pests with gels, baits, or sticky traps, and store food in sealed containers.
  7. Choose paints that are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and free of alkylphenol ethoxylates (APE-free).
  8. Avoid vinyl. Find non-vinyl alternatives for shower curtains, pillow and mattress protectors, window shades, flooring, and wallpaper.
  9. Look for rugs and furniture made without flame retardants, and avoid stain-resistant treatments.
  10. Stop toxics at the door. Adopt a no-shoes-at-home policy and place a doormat at each entryway.

Get more tips with Detox Me, a free mobile app by Silent Spring Institute: detoxmeapp.org.