When it comes to keeping kids healthy, parents typically think of things like a healthy diet, nutrition, good hygiene, and plenty of sleep. While these are all very important factors, it can be easy to overlook the quality of the air you breathe, but it’s a critical health factor: indoor air quality can have a major impact on children’s health and contribute to pulmonary illnesses.
Dirty and moldy vents, inadequate ventilation, toxic organic compounds and the presence of allergens combine to create an unhealthy interior atmosphere for the entire family. The following guide offers helpful advice on how to ensure your entire family is breathing clean, fresh air.
Ventilation and HVAC
A properly ventilated home is key to your kids’ overall health. Good ventilation keeps pollutants from lingering, maintains good air flow through the house and rids your home of unpleasant odors. Ventilation also controls the amount of moisture in the home. Poor ventilation allows moisture to be trapped and gradually causes wood and drywall to rot. Consequently, the structural integrity of your home becomes compromised and mold may develop, which can produce deadly infections and present a major threat to everyone’s safety. A home with clean, unimpeded air ducts should provide a reliable flow of air that keeps pollutants, allergens and other irritants under control.
Your central air conditioning system and all ductwork should be checked on a regular basis as parts need to be maintained and repaired. If you need a pro to check your system or to make repairs, go online to find local air conditioning or heating repair services. Be sure to check their profile, and read up on customer reviews and see how they’re rated, as this will give you a good idea of the contractor’s level of expertise and scope of service.
Be aware that combustible appliances present a fire hazard and must be vented along with your clothes dryer (portable air conditioners also need to be properly vented directly outside). Make sure to open windows when using chemicals, solvents and cleaners inside your home. Don’t forget to replace or clean air filters on a monthly basis, and consider buying a quality air purifier. Also, dust throughout your home on a regular basis, making sure to get fan blades, plant leaves and curtains and blinds.
Go natural
Studies by NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America have revealed that many common household plants are capable of filtering out volatile organic compounds, which are produced by common commercial household cleaning products. Some of the best options are spider plants and aloe vera, which are both hardy and easy to maintain plant varieties, and they look great inside the home. As an added benefit, having indoor plants in your home can even alleviate stress and boost your mood.
Easy options
Allergens can come from a variety of different sources, but many culprits are everyday household and personal items that can be cleaned, thrown out or put safely away. If you have pets, be sure to groom them frequently to control the amount of pet dander in your home, a major source of allergens.
Launder all bed clothing weekly to get rid of dead skin, hair and dander. Store all firewood outdoors to prevent the spread of mold, and don’t permit anyone to smoke inside your house, particularly if a family member suffers from asthma. If allergens are a major, chronic health issue for your children, Mayo Clinic says to consider replacing all carpeting with tile or hardwood flooring. Carpeting is a haven for dirt, dust, dander and a wide range of allergens.
Take care to keep your furniture fabric clean, as it can trap dust mites and other allergens. Similarly, be sure to keep curtains clean. It’s worth the investment to switch to machine-washable material to simplify your cleaning routine. Take this time to declutter as well, as clutter can also hold dust and allergens. Start by going through your papers—most paper you save is for “just in case” moments unlikely to occur.
Get outside
One of the best ways to keep your family breathing easy is to get outside and enjoy outdoor activities as a family whenever the weather permits. It’s great for the lungs and gives everyone a chance for some fun and exercise. Do some backyard camping under the stars, build a bird feeder and write down the different species that stop by, or hop on your bikes and go for a spin.
The quality of the air your kids breathe should never be a source of anxiety. With diligence and attention to detail, it won’t be. A clean, well-ventilated, and organized home will provide a healthy living environment for the whole family.
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