Coming home at the end of a tedious day out in the world, (or from work, if you are fortunate enough to have a job, but not fortunate enough to get to work from home!) can be a wonderful feeling. There is no place like home. (unless there’s someone there you don’t like very much!) It should be one of the most comforting places to be. It should be your safe haven where you can unwind and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Well, sadly, that might not be what is happening at home!
Most of us are aware that we are exposed to environmental pollution when we go out in the world. Many, however, would be surprised at the environmental pollution that is hiding behind their front door! If you think your home is a clean, non-toxic place, the truth may surprise you!
Consider this fact – according to the World Health Organization, (you know the folks Trump cut off) exposure to household toxins causes about 3.8 million premature deaths every year. In fact, indoor pollution is a major cause of respiratory disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, lung cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Our bodies are only built to detox a certain amount of chemicals. Cumulative toxic burden WILL hasten the development of illness is chronic illnesses. Once our body is overwhelmed, serious illness is the result.
And as a result of all of the time we have been spending indoors during this pandemic, with many working and schooling from their homes, now is the time to strongly consider detoxing your home. While some degree of chemical exposure is inevitable, there is much we can do to eliminate overload!
Let’s start with the basics:
CLEANING YOUR HOME:
Many house cleaning products contain multiple harmful chemicals that can adversely affect your health. According to research, people using these products to clean their houses for the last 20 years have reduced lung function comparable to that of someone smoking 20 cigarettes a day for the same period!
Common ingredients found in every home like white vinegar and baking soda are more than sufficient to remove dirt, allergens, bacteria, or odor from surfaces. And, we know you love the smell of Christmas trees! (At least those who celebrate Christmas do) But, those pine based oil cleaners can produce cancer-causing formaldehyde! So save that Christmas scent for the tree in December.
Try these NATURAL CLEANING solutions instead.
Baking soda and water: A thick paste of baking soda mixed with water is a heavy-duty cleaner for removing stains from surfaces, cleaning pet beds, the inside of the ovens, refrigerators and garbage bins. Baking soda is also great at removing odors from your kitchen inside and outside of the fridge.
Water and vinegar: Water mixed with white vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner for disinfecting surfaces. It can remove dirt, grease, pollutants, microbes, and allergens. Vinegar is also safe to use almost everywhere, including floors, kitchen, glass surfaces, as well as wooden furniture. Furthermore, vinegar also leaves a refreshing scent that will keep mosquitoes and insects at bay.
- ¾ parts of water
- ¼ parts white vinegar
- 4-5 drops of essential oil (optional)
- Spray bottle
- Microfiber cloth for cleaning
For removing stains or for cleaning bathrooms, the proportion of vinegar can be increased to 50:50.
A note on essential oils: Essential oils are great at purifying the indoor air of bacteria, viruses, fungi, pests, and other infection-causing microbes. They are also known to clear the respiratory tract, ease breathing, and boost immunity against environmental allergens. Tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon oil, lavender, orange oils can be added to enhance the sanitizing efficacy of homemade cleaning liquids. However, be sure to use only 100% pure oils as cheap adulterated oils may also contain toxic chemicals themselves. Also, avoid using tea tree oil to clean your kitchen as tea tree oil is a powerful bactericide but not considered food-safe. Instead, use lemon or orange oil for the purpose.
GO GREEN – GOT PLANTS?
According to the U.S. Environment Protection Agency, sources of indoor air pollution include volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, chemicals in pesticides, particulate matter, formaldehyde (used in pressed wood products), secondary smoke from heaters, stove, chimneys, and biological waste. The good news is – most of these pollutants can be reduced by adding some detoxifying plants around your home. Some plants are wonderfully effective in improving air quality and replenishing the oxygen levels. Use a variety of plants rather than more plants of the same type to filter out different kinds of toxins. Plants also have an aesthetic value as they add a nice look (and feel) to your home.
It’s funny, as a kid, I remember learning so much about the environment when my mother worked for the Environmental Protection Agency. (EPA) I remember going to work with her and bringing home all of these coloring books. They were supposed to teach us how to protect the environment. I would take them to school and share them with my class and be the coolest kid in class. Sadly, I guess most of us didn’t remember what we had colored Or maybe we needed more coloring books. (Maybe we should send Trump some EPA coloring books! or did he eliminate the EPA? I’ve lost track!) Climate change is real!!! Anyway, back to plants!
Here’s a list of some air-purifying plants:
Aloe vera: Aloe vera is safe for pets and kids, even if they ingest it. The plant can purify the air of formaldehyde and benzene (found in detergents). Aloe vera is also a great wound-healer, a soothing moisturizer, and can be used in face and hair packs as well.
Rubber plant: Rubber plants can remove formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, benzene, and chlorinated hydrocarbons found in pesticides and cleaning liquids. It is considered toxic for pets.
Bamboo palms: Bamboo palms are most popular among detoxifying plants because they can remove a wide variety of indoor pollutants, including formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide, chlorinated hydrocarbons, xylene (found in rubber products), and other chemicals used in synthetic fragrances. They are safe for kids and pets.
English ivy: English ivy can also remove a variety of house pollutants, especially airborne fecal particles from the bathroom. It is considered toxic for pets. The sap of this plant can also cause skin irritations in adults.
Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums are pretty flowers that can remove a host of toxins, including ammonia and plastic pollutants. These plants may also be toxic for pets.
Spider plants: Spider plants are good for removing xylene and endocrine-disrupting chemicals from aromatic products. These are considered safe for pets and kids.
Also consider, philodendrons. Get some Eucalyptus. It’s known for relieving respiratory conditions. Don’t know about you, but I should be on the FBI’s most wanted list for murdering house plants. Good with herbs. Suck with house plants. But, if you’re like me, (plant killer wanted in three states) I understand that some of these are pretty hard to kill. EVEN FOR ME!
OPEN THE WINDOW! (DO NOT JUMP. 2020 will be over soon!)
Research suggests that indoor air might be more polluted than outdoor air. While this doesn’t mean you are safer outside, it’s often a good idea to throw open your windows and ventilators once a day, especially if the weather is windy. Ventilation is a great way to promote air circulation, which can help get rid of light dust particles and airborne microbes while replacing it with some fresh air. You can also diffuse some essential oil while doing so, to promote the air purification process.
Essential Oils I love!
Lavender – https://dv216.isrefer.com/go/lavender/kavonarts/
Lemon – https://dv216.isrefer.com/go/lemon/kavonarts/
Peppermint – https://dv216.isrefer.com/go/peppermint/kavonarts/
Orange – https://dv216.isrefer.com/go/orange/kavonarts/
DUST TO DUST
And while we are on the subject of dust, According to a 2016 study, 90% of dust samples collected from U.S. homes contained more than 45 chemicals, including endocrine-disrupting phthalates and flame retardants. Electronics, furniture padding, foam-based packaging, carpets, cabinets, remote controls, paint materials inside your home contain a group of chemicals called Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs). PBDEs are primarily used as flame retardants to reduce the chances of household goods catching fire. Over time, traces of these chemicals get accumulated with household dust and pose a serious health risk, especially for infants and young children. PBDEs have been associated with neurological disorders, liver problems, thyroid, and reproductive disorders. Very small dust particles also pose a risk for lung health as they may enter the lung and block respiratory pathways. Use your vacuum cleaner more regularly to remove these avoidable toxins. Dust also often contains human hair and dead skin. Who wants that lying around? Gross.
How about a few more things to consider?
CARPET
I’m not big on carpet, but if you are and have carpet, you might want to invest in a better vacuum. Consider a high efficiency particular air (HEPA filter) vacuum.
Again, I’m really not into carpet myself, but even area rugs can be an issue depending on what they are made of. Many carpets are made with chemicals that are toxic to the environment. These toxins are not only in the carpet, but the padding and the glue used to lay the carpet. If you are considering replacing your carpet any time soon, look for low or no (VOC) volatile organic compounds emission or “green” carpet.
FILTERS
Don’t just filter your water, filter your air. But, when purchasing a water filter, look for one that removes lead. Testing your water is never a bad idea. Know what’s in it, so you can get the right filter to remove it! They are not all created equal. Filtering water into a plastic pitcher defeats some of the purpose! They make stainless ones. I’m researching these now! Stay tuned. Reading about the Berkeys.
Also, while we are on filters, don’t forget to replace the filter on your furnace and have your air ducts and vents cleaned. (Without harmful chemicals)
BUGS BUGGING YOU?
I doubt very seriously that anyone is a fan of insects except maybe insects that eat each other. Well as far as pesticides go, I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that those are bad for you. They can hang around in your furniture and carpets. Look for non-toxic options. It is kind of obvious at this point, I’m totally getting into essential oils. According to a few articles including the one linked below, peppermint oil naturally repels ants, spider and mosquitoes! Mix 10-15 drops with some water, shake and spray near your doors and windows.
Peppermint – https://dv216.isrefer.com/go/peppermint/kavonarts/
https://www.saferbrand.com/articles/get-rid-of-common-household-bugs
GOT GAS? (NOT THAT KIND)
According to an article on detoxing your home on www.experiencelife.com, natural gas is considered a source of indoor air pollution. It suggested replacing gas appliances with electric ones, especially for those with chemical sensitivities or respiratory issues. That broke my heart. Not bragging, but any serious cook prefers a gas range with a dual fuel oven. (Electric is typically better for baking as it keeps a more consistent temperature.)
This I found really interesting. It’s stated to pay attention to the color of the flame. “A properly functioning burner creates combustion through a balance mixed of air and fuel producing a blue flame. A yellow flame signals incomplete combustion and the production of carbon monoxide!” (Don’t play about that carbon monoxide unless you want to wake up dead!….I know. No such thing as waking up dead, but you get the idea!) It’s suggested to install a hood that vents to the outside. Check out Daniel Stih’s book “Healthy Living Spaces” for more! (I love that he recommended essential oils mixed with water in a spray bottle for room scent.)
MOLD – It’s not just on your cheese!
Mold can hide and lead to serious medical conditions, a compromised immune system and neurological problems. Plumbing leaks are usually the cause, so be sure to check your fixtures and stay on top of your caulking game. Once mold gets in your drywall the only way to get rid of it is to remove the drywall. Meanwhile other materials such as your carpet may also need to be removed. If you think you have a serious mold problem, leave clean up to the professionals. If the cleanup isn’t done right, it can spread the spores and once they go airborne, “Houston we have a problem!”
BED, BATH AND BEYOND
Lose the plastic shower liner. That hot shower is releasing all kinds of hormone-disrupting chemicals into the air and they can linger…….for days!
Organic sheets might sound crazy, but not if you are aware of all of the chemicals in your sheets and how the flame retardants can affect your health! Time to accept the fact that going organic is not just reserved for produce.
Although it’s great to detox your body and absolutely necessary, it’s always best to eliminate to source of toxins! Unless you live in the middle of nowhere and live off your land. (And even then, there’s the air! Can’t eliminate that, but you can purify it!) it’s nearly impossible to eliminate ALL TOXINS but we must do what we can! Baby steps.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful. Start with just one and work your way through the list. Just START!