Maintaining a clean and healthy home is essential for the well-being of everyone in the household. However, many people may not realize that some of the dirtiest and most harmful areas in their homes are often overlooked. For instance, according to the NSF, the kitchen harbors the most germs. In this article, we will explore 10 overlooked habits for keeping your home healthy and safe, from changing air and water filters to using non-toxic cleaners, natural air fresheners, and more. By implementing these practices, you can improve your indoor air quality, reduce exposure to harmful contaminants, and promote better health for you and your family.
Change Air Filters
Air pollution is intricately linked to the onset of allergies, particularly in children who spend a significant amount of time indoors. The quality of indoor air is a critical factor in the development of allergic reactions, with air conditioning filters often contributing to the problem. According to a 2021 study, air purifiers were found to reduce respirable bacteria by 20% on average indoors.
Recent research underscores the impact of environmental exposures on allergic diseases, with a notable increase in allergic rhinitis and asthma correlating with urbanization and industrialization. These conditions are exacerbated by air pollutants, which amplify the allergenicity of common allergens. Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, which can heighten sensitization and worsen symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Moreover, indoor allergens are significant triggers for asthma, a condition affecting up to 10% of children in the United States.
Change Water Filters
PFAS, a category of cancer-causing chemicals that never break down, travel along the city water system and infiltrate our bodies through drinking water. Historically, cities have ill-timely informed their residents of drinking water dangers. Another point of contamination is your old, galvanized iron pipes that may contain heavy metals like lead or aluminum. Point-of-use filtration has proven effective in preventing water contamination from the water pipe network. According to a 2020 study, under-sink reverse osmosis and two-stage filters filtered PFAs the most effectively compared to activated-carbon filters and whole-house filtration systems. Although much more costly, reverse osmosis filters with mineral reintroduction provides the healthiest water for your home. Reverse osmosis filters work by pushing water across a semi-permeable membrane that leaves behind contaminants. Because the purified water is considered “dead water” after this thorough filtration, minerals are introduced afterward to provide the healthiest drinking water. According to a 2015 study, fluoride exposure to children in high amounts can lead to decreased cognitive development and fluorosis. In a 2015 study, home water purification systems saw up to 100% elimination of fluoride from their water.
Use non-toxic cleaners
Extended exposure to commercial cleaning products has been linked to various health issues. Custodians and housekeepers, who frequently use these products, provide valuable insights into their effects. A 2015 study found that eco-friendly cleaning products are associated with fewer health symptoms than traditional cleaners. Additionally, research suggests that regular use of cleaning chemicals may contribute to a decline in lung function over time. Choosing less toxic, environmentally preferable options could be a safer alternative for both users and the environment.
Replace Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries
Ensuring the installation and regular maintenance of carbon monoxide detectors in your home is crucial for monitoring and preventing the risks associated with carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. CO is an insidious hazard; it is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious health issues or even death without warning. Studies emphasize the importance of CO detectors, with research indicating that these devices are a known-effective prevention strategy. The Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 highlights that unintentional CO poisoning, while largely preventable, remains a significant global health concern, with mortality rates highest in regions with colder climates and less access to safe heating technologies. By installing CO detectors, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of CO poisoning, ensuring a safer living environment.
Maintain your appliances
Regular cleaning and maintenance of kitchen fixtures and appliances, including sink faucets, trash containers, stoves, ovens, and refrigerators, are essential for health and efficiency. These common items can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria like salmonella, E. coli, and norovirus, which pose significant health risks. Moreover, keeping these appliances in top condition not only prevents the proliferation of dangerous pathogens but also enhances energy efficiency, leading to cost savings and improved appliance longevity.
Studies have shown that kitchen sponges and utensils, often used to clean these appliances, can themselves harbor bacteria and contribute to cross-contamination if not properly sanitized. Therefore, it’s crucial to adopt rigorous cleaning practices and consider using less abrasive, eco-friendly products to ensure a safe and hygienic kitchen environment.
Clean Your Refrigerator
Refrigerators are essential for keeping our food fresh, but they can also become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria if not properly maintained. Pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella, Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and Campylobacter can lurk in the nooks and crannies of our fridges, posing a risk of foodborne illnesses. These microorganisms can survive and even thrive in the cool, moist environment inside a refrigerator, contaminating food and surfaces.
A study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture highlighted the prevalence of such bacteria, showing that consumers often inadvertently spread bacteria around the kitchen, with refrigerator handles being a common site for contamination. Another research article evaluated bacterial contamination on different surfaces within domestic refrigerators and found significant bacterial presence, emphasizing the importance of regular cleaning.
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to use a nontoxic cleaner when cleaning the refrigerator. Harsh chemicals can lead to dangerous contamination of foods, so opting for safe and effective alternatives is vital. The Food Safety and Inspection Service recommends avoiding cleaners that may impart a chemical taste to food or damage the interior finish of your refrigerator.
Moreover, it’s important not to overlook the refrigerator handle, which is frequently touched and can transfer bacteria to clean hands and foods. Best practices for cleaning refrigerator handles include using a cloth sprayed with an all-purpose cleaner and applying extra effort to remove the grime that builds up. Ensuring that these areas are disinfected can significantly reduce the spread of bacteria and maintain a safer kitchen environment.
Clean Bathroom Light Switches
Bathroom light switches are often overlooked in regular cleaning routines, yet they can harbor a surprising amount of bacteria. Studies have shown that light switches can be contaminated with a variety of pathogens, including coliform bacteria (fecal matter), which were found to be present at 112.7 bacterial colony forming units (CFUs) per square centimeter, as well as 122.7 CFUs of aerobic bacteria, such as E. coli. This contamination can be attributed to aerosols from toilet flushes and contact with dirty hands, making these switches potential vectors for the spread of illness.
To maintain a hygienic bathroom environment, it’s important to clean and disinfect light switches regularly. Best practices suggest using a damp microfiber cloth with a gentle cleaner, such as dish soap or a vinegar solution, to wipe down the switches. For more thorough cleaning, especially during illness outbreaks, rubbing alcohol can be used to sanitize the switches. It’s crucial to ensure that the cleaning cloth is not overly wet to avoid any risk of electrical short-circuiting. By incorporating these cleaning methods into a regular maintenance schedule, we can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial transmission in one of the most frequently used areas of our homes.
Natural Air Fresheners
The use of scented candles and commercial air fresheners in homes is a common practice for creating a pleasant ambiance. However, many of these products contain undisclosed ingredients that can pose significant health risks. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that a chemical compound commonly found in air fresheners, 1,4-dichlorobenzene, may reduce lung function. Furthermore, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) warns that many air fresheners contain phthalates, hazardous chemicals known to cause hormonal abnormalities, birth defects, and reproductive problems. Candles, particularly those that are unregulated, can release carcinogens such as toluene, dibenzodioxins, and dibenzofurans into the air, potentially increasing the risk of lung cancer.
To avoid these health hazards, it is advisable to use natural alternatives for air freshening. Natural air fresheners, such as essential oils, plants, and simply opening windows to let in fresh air, can significantly improve indoor air quality without the risks associated with synthetic fragrances. A guide on eco-friendly air fresheners suggests that using natural ingredients can keep your home free from volatile organic compounds and other synthetic chemicals. Additionally, plants not only add to the aesthetic of a space but also have the ability to purify the air, making them a beneficial addition to any indoor environment. By opting for these natural solutions, individuals can create a safer and more health-conscious atmosphere in their homes.
Handheld Devices
Handheld devices such as keyboards, remote controllers, video game controllers, and phones are frequently touched objects that can harbor a variety of microorganisms, including yeast, mold, and staph bacteria. A study on bacterial colonization of handheld devices in a healthcare setting found that these devices were often colonized with Staphylococcus aureus, a common pathogen, even in environments with high hygiene standards. This highlights the importance of regular sanitization to prevent the spread of bacteria.
For effective cleaning, it is recommended to use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with a mild soap and water solution or premoistened alcohol wipes, ensuring not to use bleach or spray any liquid directly onto the devices. Special attention should be given to areas like seams, buttons, and any nooks where grime tends to accumulate. After cleaning, it’s important to allow the device to air dry completely before use.
Phones, in particular, are personal items that we carry everywhere and come into contact with various surfaces, making them potential carriers of harmful microbes. UV-C light has been shown to be an effective tool for disinfecting mobile devices, capable of reducing contamination and thereby lowering the risk of infection transmission. Regular sanitization of these devices, especially in healthcare settings, is crucial for maintaining a hygienic environment and preventing the spread of infections.
Leaving Shoes at the Door
Wearing shoes indoors is a common practice, but it may be worth reconsidering due to the potential health risks. Shoes can carry a multitude of foreign pathogens and bacteria, including E. coli, which is often associated with severe gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections. A study highlighted that an astonishing 96% of shoes were found to have traces of fecal bacteria. Moreover, shoes can also track in dirt, pesticides, and various other pollutants from outside, contributing to the degradation of indoor air quality. By simply removing shoes at the entrance, individuals can significantly reduce their exposure to these harmful contaminants.
The impact of this practice on indoor air quality has been substantiated by scientific research. Environmental chemists have found that about a third of the dust and dirt inside homes is brought in from outdoors, often via the bottoms of shoes. This not only includes visible dirt but also cancer-causing toxins from asphalt road residue and endocrine-disrupting lawn chemicals. Removing shoes at the door not only prevents these substances from entering the home but also reduces the risk of spreading drug-resistant pathogens and other hazardous chemicals that can be difficult to treat if they contaminate indoor environments. Adopting this simple habit can lead to a cleaner, healthier living space and contribute to overall well-being.
Vacuum Cleaners
Environmental Science & Technology revealed that vacuum emissions can release substantial quantities of these microorganisms. Although the emissions are brief during vacuuming, over time they can lead to the inhalation of infectious or allergenic aerosols. This is particularly concerning as vacuums can become reservoirs for antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which contribute to indoor bioaerosol exposure and may pose health risks.
In addition to regular cleaning, controlling indoor pests is crucial for preventing the spread of illnesses and allergies. Non-toxic pest control methods are not only safer for humans and pets but also for the environment. Techniques such as using natural predators, companion planting, and mechanical barriers can effectively manage pests without the adverse effects associated with chemical pesticides. Furthermore, harnessing natural light in living spaces can save energy, boost mood, and promote better health. Exposure to natural light has been shown to regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality, which is essential for overall well-being. By integrating these practices into daily routines, individuals can create a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
