Simple Changes Lead To A Better Environment

EPA studies show that the interiors of our homes have levels of a dozen pollutants two to five times greater than the air outside.  If your home is well sealed to conserve energy, fumes from upholstery, carpets, paint, building materials, etc. build up and get trapped inside.  The effects on your health may range from mild headaches to respiratory illness.  Just taking small steps within your home will help you breathe easier and stay healthier.

The Kitchen

• Place any toxic cleaners, used infrequently, in an outdoor shed or in the garage. Replace as many chemical-laden cleaners as possible with green soaps and cleaners.
• Check the stove’s gas lines for leaks or blockages annually to ensure carbon monoxide is not being released into the air.  Install a carbon monoxide detector.
• Opt for appliances that save energy and water.  Use your exhaust fan to expel moisture and gases from cooking

The Living Areas and Bedrooms

• Decorate with natural air cleaners such as houseplants that may help remove airborne toxins.  Dracaena, English Ivy and Peace Lily are good plants to have in the home. Keep the leaves and surface soil free of dust and debris.
• Use cedar hangers or blocks as a safe pest-deterrent alternative to mothballs.
• Paint the interior walls with low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paint and avoid synthetic wall-to-wall carpeting, which off-gasses the greatest amount of chemicals.
• Switch to eco-friendly pest and odor controls versus toxic sprays or powders.

The Bathrooms

• Cut down on chlorine-based cleaners which can irritate the eyes, lungs and skin. Opt instead for non-chlorine bleaches and cleaners based on hydrogen peroxide or sodium percarbonate.
• Clean glass and mirrors with a solution of white vinegar mixed with water rather than ammonia-based products.
• Replace PVC-based vinyl shower curtains which may release gases for years and can trap moisture that breeds mold and mildew.  A healthy alternative are the white nylon shower curtains that can be tossed into the washing machine.

For more information on protecting the indoor air quality in your home, go to epa.gov/iaq and download the EPA’s free booklet The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor AirQuality.