It seems like everyone these days is taking some sort of small steps to help out the environment. Whether it be switching the type of cars were driving to using recyclable grocery bags instead of plastic, there’s always an easy option for helping to improve the environment around the corner. Air quality is one of the major issues when it comes to the environmental debate. When it comes to this topic, many times outdoor air quality is the major issue, however making sure that indoor air quality is sufficient and free of toxins can be a major factor in cutting down on environmental health risks, especially around the house.
Cleaning products
Replacing normal-use cleaning products around the house is one of the first steps everyone should take in making sure their home is free of as many toxins as possible. Many household cleaners are extremely high in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s). Repeated and heavy exposure to VOC’s has been known to cause health risks such as kidney damage and different types of cancer. There are a number of name brand organic options to choose from in most stores today. In some cases, you can even create your own household cleaners.
Paint
Paint is another common household product that is high in VOC’s, just like common cleaners. If you happen to be taking on a construction project, or maybe just working on some type of arts and crafts, taking on some new types of paint can be great for cutting down on toxins and health risks. Luckily these days there are a number of options that are easy to come by. Low VOC paints are very common and should be available in most major hardware stores.
Air filters
Replacing your air filter regularly is an important step in keeping a toxin free home at all times. The air filter works to help keep out mold and dust. If an air filter is older, not replaced, and becomes jammed up it essentially loses its purpose. Instead of stopping the toxins from getting into the house, it will then start to spread them. Therefore, replacing your filter can do wonders in keeping toxins from floating around the home.
Plants
Adding a plant around the house can be great for cutting down on toxins, as well as a great decoration piece. There are a few plants that are particularly successful in cutting down home toxins such as an English Ivy or a Bamboo Palm. Plants are highly effective in cutting down certain VOC’s like formaldehyde and benzene down. This will cut down on possible nausea, dizziness, eye irritation and respiratory problems.
Insulation
Having your home’s insulation checked can also be very helpful in preventing toxins and reducing health risks, especially if you have an older home. Many older homes have asbestos as an insulation material; this is a fiber that’s known for its connection to diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis. Luckily, there are a number of organic insulation options that are both sustainable and cost effective available these days. Spray foam, lycenene, and cotton fiber are all common organic insulation alternatives. Having a home checked for asbestos can be extremely beneficial in cutting major health risks. For example mesothelioma life expectancy is very low and severe. Make sure to check out some of the organic insulation options to not only increase your home’s sustainability, but also cut toxins and health risks.
Our homes are supposed to be our safe haven and somewhere that we all feel protected from the dangers of the world. Taking a few easy steps to cut down on the toxins around the home and improve the air quality can do wonders for making your house an even safer place.
Written by: Krista Peterson
My name is Krista Peterson and I am 23 years old. I do not have any children (just a nephew). I currently reside in Florida. I am an aspiring writer and recent college graduate. I am a health and safety advocate and use my writings to spread awareness of such issues. I have a passion for the environment. In my free time, I enjoy doing yoga and playing with my dogs.
Photo by: Go natural baby