“Home” can mean different things to different people. But when we think of home, we think of a safe, comfortable space for ourselves and the ones we love. However, there are environmental factors in your home that can affect a person’s long-term health and wellness. Even minor tweaks can go a long way toward making your home a healthier environment for yourself and your family. The healthcare providers at Family Practice Center recommend the following simple steps:
Don’t Let Dust Settle
It can be downright impossible to prevent dust from accumulating in your home, especially on shelves, in the corners of rooms, or under surfaces like beds and other furniture. In addition to being an aesthetic nuisance, too much exposure to dust and dust mites can lead to the development of allergies and asthma over time. We recommend vacuuming and dusting frequently to keep dust from piling up.
Use a Water Filter
If you or other members of your household drink tap water, we highly recommend investing in a water filter. Whether you use a filtered pitcher that rests in your refrigerator or attach a filter to your faucet, using a filter can significantly reduce or eliminate certain contaminants like lead, chlorine, and pesticides that are often found in tap water.
Use Safe Cleaning Products
When shopping for cleaning products to help tidy up the kitchen, bathroom, and wherever else, it’s best to avoid products that use harsh chemical ingredients. These chemical-based cleaners can cause a variety of health problems including breathing issues and even cancer if used for too long. In addition to organic or chemical-free cleaning products, using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon around the house can also help.
Clean Out Your Refrigerator
Safe food storage is an essential component of healthy living. It’s important to make sure that your fridge is in a healthy state to prevent harmful bacteria, mold, and other potential contaminants from compromising your food. The best way to do this is to clean the inside of your refrigerator on a regular basis. We also highly recommend being aware of expiration dates to avoid potential foodborne illnesses caused by ingesting expired food products.
You don’t have to completely overhaul your entire home to make it a safer environment. Even small-scale changes or a bit of extra attention can promote improved long-term health for yourself and the ones you care about most. For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our healthcare providers, please contact Family Practice Center today. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional tips, news, updates, and more.