As homeowners, we often undermine the risks of the hidden toxins lurking in our living spaces. These toxins are everywhere, from common household products to furniture, drinking water, and even in the air we breathe. The worst part is that many of these culprits are in plain sight but hardly look suspicious.
According to The Guardian, vigorous toxicity testing has not been done on 86,000 consumer chemicals registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency. These chemicals are seeping into the bloodstream of millions of Americans just because no one knows about them. Things are pretty much the same in the UK.
Understanding and addressing everyday toxins is the only way to maintain a healthy living environment. In this article, we will share a few practical tips for a safer home with minimal toxic load.
Know the Hidden Culprits
Household toxins are more widespread than you might think. The UK government website notes that mould is found in 4% to 27% of homes in England. That makes up a staggering 962,000 to 6.5 million households. Mould thrives in damp environments and can cause respiratory issues and structural damage.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), found in paints, varnishes, and new furniture, are also toxic in nature. VOCs can lead to irritation, headaches, and long-term health issues such as liver damage and cancer.
Similarly, PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, is a chemical group to watch out for. These chemicals can disrupt endocrine function and have been linked to reproductive issues and neurodevelopmental problems. The ongoing AFFF lawsuits in the US highlight the dangers of PFAS exposure.
According to TruLaw, AFFF firefighting foam contains PFAS as a primary ingredient. While this product is good at extinguishing flames, prolonged exposure has led to cancer among many firefighters. Thousands of them have filed lawsuits against manufacturers for failing to warn them about the risk of PFAS exposure.
Awareness regarding these hidden toxins can help you eliminate them and create a safe living space.
Clean Your Space Regularly
Regular cleaning in essential for reducing toxin exposure in your home. However, using chemical cleaners is not a great idea. A study conducted by the Environmental Working Group highlights the danger of using chemical-based household cleaning products. Researchers tested 30 conventional products and “green” cleaning products and found 193 hazardous chemicals in them.
When cleaning your home, use homemade cleaners such as baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar. Regular dusting and vacuuming can limit exposure to dust mites, pet dander, and other pollutants. Also, keep an eye on damp areas for mould growth and address it at the earliest if you detect it.
Opt for Safe Alternatives
Besides using natural cleaning products in your home, there are many other swaps you must consider. Look for alternatives that reduce the toxic load of your living space and make it healthier.
For example, plastic is a culprit you should avoid, though it is ubiquitous in most homes around the world. According to Toxic-Free Future, harmful chemicals in plastic products can leach into food and make you sick. They can also pollute the indoor air by entering your home. Switch from plastic to glass or stainless steel containers for healthy, chemical-free cooking and storage. Avoid plastic bags and swap them for paper or cloth bags.
Tap water is another source of toxins as it contains all kinds of pollutants, from lead to PFAS, and germs. Another swap you must make is your tap water with filtered water. Invest in a reverse-osmosis filter to purify tap water and reduce contaminants.
Monitor and Maintain Air Quality
Airborne toxins often go unnoticed because you cannot see, feel, or smell them. But they can affect the quality of indoor air and make your family sick over time. A few steps can make a great deal of difference when it comes to maintaining the air quality of your home.
Something as simple as opening windows from time to time to let fresh air in helps. You can also bring some air-purifying plants and use them in home decor. Installing HEPA filters is an effective measure to eliminate the harmful airborne particles. Also, reduce VOC sources by avoiding harsh chemicals and choosing low-VOC paints.
Eat a Detox Diet
You cannot completely eliminate daily toxins from your home and life, no matter how hard you try. However, you can build your defences against them by consuming a detox diet. It comprises foods that support the natural detoxification processes of the body.
Healthline recommends foods high in antioxidants and prebiotics to speed up the removal of toxins. Avoiding sugar, alcohol, and processed foods also helps reduce your internal toxin load. Drink more water to flush out harmful chemicals from your system and cleanse it thoroughly and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the effects of household toxins?
Household toxins can harm you in more ways than you imagine. They can cause a range of health issues, such as respiratory problems, skin irritation, hormonal disruptions, and neurological damage. Some harmful chemicals can even lead to long-term diseases like cancer due to prolonged exposure.
How to check for toxins in your home?
To check for toxins, you must know the hidden hazards and inspect your home regularly. You can look at damp spots for mould growth. Use VOC-testing kits and review the ingredients of household products. When buying furniture and cleaning supplies, look for certifications like “non-toxic” or “low-VOC”.
How to cleanse toxins from your body?
Removing toxins from your body does not require a lot of work. Start by supporting your body’s natural detoxification processes by eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and sulfur-containing foods. Supplements like green tea and milk thistle help by stimulating liver function. Besides diet, regular exercise and hydration help flush out toxins.
Creating a healthier home environment can keep you disease-free and prolong your life. However, it requires constant vigilance and effort. Follow these actionable tips to eliminate harmful chemicals from your living space. Remember, these small changes are worth the effort.
Disclosure: This is a featured post.