Making Your Home a Healthy Habitat for Kids

Working to make the home a healthy and safe place for children is a common topic of discussion these days. We have become increasingly aware of the toxins and hazards found in the air and the cupboards of our homes. Most parents realize toxic chemicals are in their cleaning supplies, and some have even gone as far as removing them and now use “green” products. This is a great start to a healthier home and a healthier family.

Simply disposing of chemicals from our cabinets, however, may not be enough. We often take the air we breathe for granted, so it’s sometimes difficult to remember that the very air circulating through our homes could contain toxins or chemicals. Thankfully, maintaining good air quality can be quite easy. Many of the most effective solutions are affordable and can go a long way toward reducing air pollution and giving your children good, clean air to breathe.

Clear the air

Air-quality indoors can be affected by a variety of factors. The following tips can help everyone in your home breathe a little easier: 

Quit smoking. This one may not apply to you, but if you are a smoker, you should definitely consider quitting the habit. At the very least, take your smoking outside and away from enclosed spaces. By doing this, you reduce the risk of exposing kids to second-hand smoke.

Keep plants around the house. Who doesn’t like a little green in their house? Not only are plants a beautiful addition to any home, but they also work around the clock to clean the air. Different plants work to remove different toxins, so you may want to do a little research before you purchase a plant.

Invest in air purifiers. They are exactly what they sound like. Air purifiers pull in the bad air, clean it, and then push the clean air back into your home. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective solution to low air quality, this is an absolute must.

Clean on a regular basis. While it may seem fairly obvious, cleaning your home on a regular basis can help you avoid dust and dander buildup. In some cases, mold can begin growing, so check every nook and cranny as often as possible.

Keep dirt outside. Washing your hands and leaving your shoes at the door can help eliminate the amount of dirt that is brought into your home. You may not think about it often, but dirt is often contaminated with lead and pesticides, which can both be very harmful to you and your children’s health.

If you aren’t sure what types of toxins are floating around in your home or you just want to be extra careful, you can have your home’s air quality tested. Consider purchasing a radon testing kit, which will help you identify the levels of radon in your home. If you live in an older building, you should also check the paint to make sure it isn’t lead-based. Your local health department can provide information on how to conduct a lead test.

Remember that a clean home is a healthy and happy home. Be sure you clean regularly and keep the air as fresh as possible!

Kristine is an avid runner who believes a clean home is indeed a happy one. In her spare time she enjoys writing on behalf of Sears and other trusted brands.