Easy and Simple Ways to Detox your Home
Easy and Simple Ways to Detox Your Home
When you understand how toxic our world has become, you learn to pay close attention to what you put in your mouth and on your body. This is organic, and that is petroleum-free... but understanding what to do to maintain a healthy home is not so simple. In fact, there are more than 80,000 chemicals registered in the US today, and many have never been studied by any government agency. In reality, the ordinary home may contain hundreds of different chemicals. Some of which are dangerous and many of which have not been studied. We spend most of our time indoors, so giving your space some time and attention will go a long way toward helping your overall health.
We know what you're thinking. Where do I even begin? And how much effort will this entail? If the notion of smearing or washing your home with baking soda seems a bit too far-fetched, don't worry. Here are some simple steps you can follow to minimize your exposure to toxins and make your house a little healthier. Let's detoxify your home with these simple tips:
Clean with Natural Cleaners
Household cleaners, from wipes and sprays to solutions and detergents, are one of the most common chemical sources of hidden poisons in your home. When it comes to cleaning, keep it basic and use materials you're familiar with. The least harmful method to clean your home for yourself and the earth is baking soda, white vinegar, water, and castile soap. These natural cleaners are easy to use keep your house clean and toxin-free. My Natural Path has a great clean soap I love, so be sure to check with your Natural Path as well.
Invest in some indoor plants
Not only can certain lush plants liven up your home décor, but they are also natural air purifiers, and certain species have some surprising health benefits. It is good to maintain some low-maintenance plants indoors. Plants absorb not only carbon dioxide but additional gases and compounds in the air during photosynthesis. In exchange, they provide the atmosphere with oxygen and even proper moisture levels. For example, eucalyptus has a lot of health benefits. It eases respiratory conditions, promotes healthy skin, and minimizes the risk of bacterial infections. Moreover, indoor plants can give an aesthetic look to your space.
Cut Down Your Use of Plastic
Some plastic containers can leach a chemical known as bisphenol-A (BPA), which is linked to hormone disruption. When heated, BPAs are more prone to leak out. When purchasing fresh or frozen items, aim for glass or cardboard packaging wherever feasible. BPA may also be present in can linings. This is especially crucial for acidic and greasy meals, which can leach out more BPA. So the use of all sorts of plastic must be avoided, especially in the kitchen. Use a glass jar instead of plastic. Replacing all your plastic food containers for glass or ceramic will go a long way to cleaning up the chemicals in your food.
Kick your Shoes Off When You Get Home
We're sorry to break it to you, but your shoes attract dirt, bacteria, and everything else you've been walk in all day. Creating a habit of removing your shoes at the door, will help to keep those nasties out of your house. Instead, consider a pair of indoor slippers for a more sanitary choice. My husband calls me Mrs. Rogers, because I'm always switching between my indoor and outdoor flip flops in the summer and my boots and slippers in the winter.
Filter your water and air
Installing an air purifier and water filter in your home are highly recommended. If you have a big house, consider installing an air purifier in each main room and potentially each bedroom, as the air quality inside your home can be much poorer than outside. At a minimum, stop using scented candles and artificial air fresheners that are loaded with chemicals that stay in the air. Instead, use high-quality organic essential oils to freshen the smell of your home. Remember it's super important to change the filters in your air conditioner and furnace regularly. You may have purified water delivered to your house, use a filtered water pitcher, or install a water filter on your faucet. A shower filter can also assist in removing chlorine and other pollutants from the water.
I used to have to go to the chiropractor every four weeks to avoid discomfort in my back. Since we installed a whole house water filtration system with reverse osmosis in our house, I haven't been back. You'll be amazed at what clean water alone will do for your health!
If you'd like some more tips on easy and simple ways to detox your home, be sure to download my free Beginner's Guide To Toxic-Free Living and learn how to eliminate environmental toxins in every aspect of your life!
Here's to Better Health,
Jennifer
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