Why a Healthy Home is key to good health

What is a healthy home?

When we refer to a healthy home, we are referring to the built environment. Specifically, we are concerned with whether the structure and contents of that environment are supportive of good health. There can be several major hazards which impact the health of a home and its inhabitants. These include mould, lead, dust, germs, and chemicals used in the home. When these hazards are present our health can be greatly impacted. They can contribute to the development of allergies, fatigue, gut issues, hormonal imbalances and the list goes on.

5 simple things you can do for a healthy home

1. Remove shoes as you enter the home. When we leave shoes at the front door we immediately reduce the number of pesticides, pollutants and chemicals we are bringing into the home.
2. Opt for no chemical cleaning products. This means avoiding nasty ingredients like phthalates, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances and bleach. These products can disrupt hormone production and cause sensitivities or irritations. Often a damp microfiber cloth is all that is needed to clean surfaces.
3. Focus on good airflow. Ideally, open windows and doors frequently for air to flow through the house. Be mindful if you live on a busy road to avoid opening windows during peak traffic times. Stop using any air fresheners as these contain harmful chemicals that reduce the air quality of the home.
4. Turn off wifi at night. Simply switching off the modem at the source will greatly reduce exposure to electromagnetic fields. If you have Bluetooth products in the home like Apple TV or Bluetooth speakers, then it is a great idea to turn these off at the power point when not in use too.

More resources to help you

• Listen to Dr Ron Ehrlich’s podcast with Building Biologist Nicole Bijlsma here and here
• Check out Nicole Bijsma’s website here
• Low Tox Life will help guide you to low tox food, products and personal care product