How Your Home Could Be Making You Sick, and What to Do About It

As homeowners and parents, we never want to think that the very place we’re supposed to feel most comfortable in could actually be harming us. However, there are several ways your home could potentially cause problems when it comes to your family’s health, from respiratory issues caused by mold to carbon monoxide leaks that go undetected. It’s imperative to know what to look for, how to fix any issues, and when you need to call in a professional.

It’s also helpful to be educated on various eco-friendly ways to make your home a healthier place to be — particularly for children and the elderly — such as using chemical-free cleansers for the bathroom and kitchen or installing a water-saving shower head. These small updates can help you keep your family safe and even have the power to boost your home’s value when you decide to resell, so they’re worth knowing about.

Keep reading for some great tips on how to keep your home healthy.

Improve the Air Quality

The air quality in your home has an effect on just about everything, from the way you breathe to the way you and your family feel when you wake up in the morning. Mold, dust, bacteria, and pollen are just a few of the things that can linger in the air ducts and HVAC filters inside your home, and they can get redistributed every time you turn on the heat or A/C. Changing the filter often will help, especially during summer and winter months when it’s on most of the time.

Air Out the House

A home that is closed up all the time can leave room for dust mites and mold to grow, so it’s a good idea to open the windows once in a while and air things out. This is an especially good idea if you’ve recently painted or brought home a new piece of pressed-wood furniture. If you or a family member have severe allergies, avoid doing this in the spring or when pollen is at its peak.

Go Chemical-Free

The chemicals contained in cleaning supplies often go overlooked when homeowners are trying to make their living quarters healthier, but these can have a profound effect on your ability to breathe easy. Consider going chemical-free by using natural cleaners, and if you’ve recently had renovations done to the inside of your home, make sure all materials are safe.

Combat Indoor Pollution

Excess moisture, pesticides, and smoking indoors can all have a negative effect on your health, but there’s an easy way to combat these things: add some plants. Throwing in a touch of greenery will not only add aesthetic value to your home, it will actually improve the air quality and combat indoor pollution that can lead to illness. Go here for ideas on which plants to buy.

Learn About Dangerous Gases

Unfortunately, there are all sorts of dangerous gases that could be lurking in and around your home, so it’s important to educate yourself on what they are and how to detect them. Some are odorless, while others — like natural gas — have a distinct smell that will alert you to dangerous levels. You should invest in a carbon monoxide detector with high sensitivity and a good battery backup, especially if you have gas appliances. Also, consult an inspector who can make sure all the pipes, plumbing, and connections are in good working order.

Making sure your home is as healthy as possible for you and your family will ensure that you never have to worry about poor air quality or illness. Make sure you check bathrooms and basements for signs of moisture, as this can easily lead to mold and bacteria that will cause respiratory problems. By staying vigilant, you and your loved ones will also stay safe.

Information provided by Suzie Wilson of www.happierhome.net