Tips For Removing Harmful Substances from Your Home

You probably never thought about it, but several harmful toxins are secretly lurking in your home. From your kitchen cabinets to your walls, they can be anywhere. Store-bought cleaning solutions, air pollutants, or chemicals in building materials all expose you to these toxins.

What do these toxins do?

They cause a range of health problems, from respiratory illnesses to reproductive problems. And so you must know the actionable steps you can take to protect your family from these dangers. To help you out, we have rounded up some tips so you can rid your home of these potentially harmful substances. Read on to learn more.

Know the sources

Identifying the sources of harmful substances is the first step to creating a safer and healthier living environment. It’s like solving a puzzle or cracking a code. Only the reward is a better quality of life. So, put on your detective hat and search high and low!

Check for mold growth in damp areas like bathrooms and basements. Look for lead paint in homes built before 1978. And don’t forget about the harsh chemicals in cleaning products.

Most importantly, be on the lookout for asbestos-containing materials in insulation, tiles, and roofing. This deadly mineral can cause a rare condition called mesothelioma if inhaled continuously over time. If you live in a home built before 1980, it’s best to keep an asbestos lawyer’s number saved on your phone. These professionals can help you get an out-of-court mesothelioma settlements and payouts from asbestos trust funds to manage treatment if things get ugly.

Ventilate your home

Ventilating your home is like giving it a breath of fresh air. It helps to improve air quality, reduce moisture levels, and prevent the buildup of harmful substances like mold and carbon monoxide. You can ventilate your home by opening windows and doors and using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Installing a whole-house ventilation system is also a great way to improve your home’s air quality.

When looking for a whole-house ventilation system, here are some pointers to consider:

• Ventilation type: Choose between energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), and exhaust-only systems.
• Capacity: It shouldn’t be too large or too small.
• Energy efficiency: Your chosen system must have a high energy recovery efficiency (ERE) rating to reduce energy costs.
• Noise level: Get one that is quiet and won’t disturb your daily activities or sleep.
• Filter type: A high-quality filter can help remove harmful particles from the air, improving indoor air quality.
• Maintenance: Look for one that is easy to maintain and has easily replaceable filters.

Test for Radon

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause lung disease. It is a known cause of lung cancer among both non-smokers and smokers. Testing for this dangerous gas is the only way to know if your home has high concentrations.

The cracks in your foundation are the most common source of Radon gas. But it can also enter your beautiful sanctuary through building materials that contain Uranium, gas appliances, and well water.

Radon tests are fairly inexpensive. You can use a self-test kit or hire a technician for the job. If the results come back high, radon mitigation systems are available to reduce the levels in your home. For instance, installing an exhaust fan or sealing cracks in your foundation can help keep this harmful gas at bay.

Use natural cleaning solutions

Synthetic cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be hazardous to your health. It is why it’s best to use natural cleaning solutions when possible. There are plenty of easy-to-make recipes online that are not only effective but safe to use.

Natural ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can do a great job of cleaning your home.

• Use vinegar to clean floors, bathrooms, and windows
• Baking soda is great for removing stubborn stains from carpets and upholstery
• Lemon juice is perfect for polishing chrome fixtures and countertops

The best part is that these natural ingredients are inexpensive and easy to find. You might already have them in your pantry. You can also host a natural cleaning party with friends and family to make the process even more enjoyable.

Ditch air fresheners

Do you know those air fresheners that promise to make your home smell like a tropical paradise? Well, they might not be so great for your health. Many air fresheners have harmful chemicals that can cause respiratory problems, headaches, infant diarrhea, and earache. Plus, they don’t actually eliminate odors. They just mask them with a stronger scent.

So, it’s time to ditch the air fresheners and opt for natural methods to keep your home smelling fresh. Open windows to allow fresh air to flow freely, burn candles made with natural ingredients like beeswax or soy wax, or use essential oils to create a pleasant scent. Simmering potpourri on your stove is also a great way to make your home smell inviting. And a bouquet of fresh flowers, well, that never gets old.

Protect your entryways

You don’t even realize the number of harmful substances you carry into your home every day. From dirt, mud, and pollen to car exhaust and airborne toxins like formaldehyde – these pollutants can enter your house through windows, doors, and vents. And, of course, your shoes are one of the main culprits.

So, put entry mats at all your doors to stop contaminants from entering your home. Place a rug in front of each entrance, especially those open to outdoor spaces. It will help keep your home free from dangerous substances. You should also remove your shoes as soon as you enter the house. It is especially important if you live in an urban area or a city with high smog levels.

Also, regularly dust and vacuum your house, especially if you have pets. Use a HEPA-filter vacuum and microfiber cloths to trap and remove dust particles.

Conclusion

Being proactive is the most effective way to keep your home free from harmful substances. Taking measures such as conducting radon tests, using natural cleaning solutions, and protecting your entryways can reduce the contaminants in your home. If you can’t manage it alone, consider hiring a professional to help you. They can provide personalized advice and offer solutions tailored to your specific needs. Remember, prevention is always better than cure! So, take action now and ensure your home is safe and healthy for you and your loved ones.