How to achieve a toxic-free home
Toxic doesn’t only describe people or situations that cause stress. It also pertains to a kind of home environment that puts your health at risk. You wouldn’t want to expose your family to toxic materials that thrive indoors. For this reason, it’s important to detoxify your home using a few important tips:
- Swap your pest control chemicals
No one likes having an ant or termite infestation around the house. However, there are some pest control brands that are just as harmful to humans as they are to insects and rats. Pesticidal sprays contain a number of chemicals such as lindane and arsenic which are known to cause cancer and various other diseases. Consider swapping out your favorite pest control brands with non-chemical alternatives such as using diatomaceous earth, sealing up possible entry ways, and eliminating nests. If these are not possible, you should look for pest control products and methods certified by the Environmental Protection Agency.
- Aim for toxic-free cleaning
Keeping your home clean is always important. Still, just like household pesticides, certain cleaning materials could also endanger your family’s health. Disinfectant solutions, aerosol sprays, and surface cleaners are effective against germs and bacteria, but they are also made from a number of carcinogenic chemicals known as volatile organic compounds. You can avoid these by opting for non-toxic cleaners. Do some research on eco-friendly brands. You can also create a DIY cleaning solution using vinegar, baking soda, and other on-hand items. Be sure to follow the instructions for creating homemade cleaning materials. It may take some patience, but it does pay off in the end.
- Check for any asbestos
For some time, asbestos was a component in homes and buildings. After experts had found out about the dangers of asbestos, people have become more wary when it comes to buying properties. Some of them are even consulting firms such as Bergman Legal to help them sue owners of buildings or homes with asbestos contamination. Likewise, you wouldn’t want to expose your family to such a highly toxic material, so when buying a home, make sure to hire an asbestos tester before sealing the deal. If you are currently settled in a home that has been around for more than a decade, consider buying an asbestos testing kit or hiring a contractor to help you remove the material.
- Prevent the growth of mold
Mold can grow anywhere at home, specifically in areas that are humid. While it’s impossible to totally get rid of mold indoors, you will need to keep it from growing out of proportion. After all, exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions and lead to complications in people who have asthma or long-term respiratory conditions. To keep your problem with mold under control, use bleach to clean contaminated areas and keep indoor humidity levels low. You can use a dehumidifier and dry out spills immediately on materials that are vulnerable to molding.
By using the right approaches, you and your family can enjoy a home that’s free from risks.
