7 Ways to Make Your Home Healthier in 2023

The beginning of a new year sparks inspiration for healthier living… eating better, moving more, and initiating better self-care. These thoughts are even more evident in the pandemic age, where individual health has become a priority for many. But what about the health of our homes? They are, after all, a space we spend a considerable amount of time in. Continue reading for a few tips to make your home healthier this year.   1) Clear the Air: Dust particles linger in the nooks and crannies of our homes, especially in soft fabrics like couches and carpet. They agitate allergies when kicked into the air, and can lead to respiratory issues (in severe cases). Keep dust at bay by frequently vacuuming your home using a good quality vacuum with a HEPA filter and dusting surfaces (especially bookcases and blinds). Replace the air filters in your furnace regularly since they catch particles while air is recirculated throughout the house. Consider adding an air purifier (either attached to your home’s HVAC system or standalone) to rid the air of contaminants. Other ways you can clear the air include opening windows for fresh air and adding a repertoire of air-purifying houseplants.   2) Leave the Shoes at the Door: Wearing shoes inside can spread dirt, grass, pollen, and other pathogens throughout your home. Make a new habit to take off shoes at the door. Create an organized storage area with a shoe rack or storage bench underneath the coat rack near the entrances of the home. Not only will doing this help prevent the spread of germs in your home, it will help keep your floors cleaner.    3) Clean Drinking Water: If you drink tap water, add a filter directly to your faucet or use a purifying water pitcher to clean the water before consumption. Although considered safe, trace amounts of contaminants are found in all sources of water (whether connected to a city system or well). Remember to replace filters frequently in refrigerator water dispensers too. Using bottled water? You may want to reconsider. Tap water is regulated by the EPA, who requires annual testing and yearly public reports identifying contaminants found in local water sources. Bottled drinking water is regulated by the FDA, which has no requirement.    4) Go Non-Toxic: Harsh chemicals found in everyday cleaning solutions and pesticides have been linked to ailments such as asthma and impaired brain development, especially in children. Reduce your family’s exposure to these toxins by using non-toxic cleaning solutions and steering clear of scented air fresheners or candles. Try natural ingredients such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, essential oils, and baking soda to make homemade cleaners. Click here for a few recipes.   5) Sanitizing Stations: Keeping your hands clean is an important step to reducing the spread of germs throughout your home, and preventing illness.  Studies show that hand washing with soap and water can reduce the risk of illness by as much as 50%. Keep all sinks in your home stocked with soap and clean towels. Also place bottles of hand sanitizer in other highly touched areas, like your entry, kitchen, dining room, and nightstands. If you have small children, consider setting up a hand washing station at their level. Convert a play kitchen to a working sink. Watch a video tutorial here.   6) Mold Prevention: Run exhaust fans while taking showers, cooking, or running the dishwasher to help draw out moisture from the air and reduce the potential for mold growth. Use hydrogen peroxide or vinegar in cleaning solutions to eliminate bacteria from surfaces where mold and mildew tend to build up (i.e. showers and wood countertops). Here are some areas that you wouldn’t usually think that mold tends to grow that should be regularly inspected, cleaned, and/or thrown out: toothbrush holders, under the sink, children’s bath toys, dish sponges, towels, shower loofahs, washing machines, and under floor mats.    7) Create a Space for Relaxation: Our homes tend to be our sanctuaries, but in the current pandemic times, have become an extension of our work and school lives. Create a space for tranquility in your home by making a calming corner in a room that is not integrated with high-traffic areas of the house. Bedrooms naturally lend themselves to be the perfect place for relaxation. In a corner: add floor pillows, a soft-light lamp, soothing artwork or plant, and a yoga mat for meditation and gentle movement. You can further designate this space by using a room divider screen.  

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