Every year, getting healthier is one of the top New Year resolutions. This declaration is even more important in our current pandemic climate.
As you make your goals to improve your diet and increase exercise, it’s important to also evaluate your home environment.
Creating a clean, healthy home is crucial to preventing disease and increasing your energy levels. With the few simple changes below, you could notice a major difference in your health and home.
Eliminate pollutants at entryway
Up to 80% of the dirt and pollen tracked into your home can be caught by using double door mats. Shop for a good quality mat on which guests and family members can wipe their feet before entering your home and another one for catching additional debris once they step inside.
Better yet, having family remove their shoes when they enter can decrease dirt tracking even more.
Set up shoe storage and have slippers readily available to encourage this new habit.
Switch to natural cleaners
Many cleaning solutions can be made at home with ingredients you might already have such as vinegar and essential oils.
Or, if you’re not the DIY type, look for 100% plant-based cleaners without harmful chemicals.
When you’re cleaning, wipe down high-touch areas such as door handles, faucets and countertops regularly – as we’ve all learned to do during the pandemic.
Reduce dampness, prevent mold
Leave interior doors open and ceiling fans on low to keep air circulating. Most ceiling fans have a switch that will change the circulation of the blades in the winter to force warm air down.
Check the pipes throughout your home to make sure they’re watertight. If you find leaks, see our website for trusted plumbers and water damage professionals.
Lastly, keep your indoor air quality in check throughout the year by changing your HVAC air filters regularly. Most filters should be changed every three months – and more often if you have pets.
Check to see if your system will accommodate HEPA filters, which offer the best filtration for common allergens.
If you suffer from severe allergies, consider calling one of our members to upgrade your HVAC system to one that includes a whole-home air cleaner.
To find more useful advice, along with a full list of our local members to help you create a healthier home, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga’s website at www.HBAGC.net.