How to Make the Home Safe for Non-Toxic Living

The non-toxic lifestyle is a holistic approach to protecting one's body and mind from chemicals, artificial agents and potentially harmful products. Family members with allergies to mold and dander benefit from a combination of non-toxic products and proper cleaning. To make the home safe for non-toxic living, you'll need to change the way you think about housekeeping, purchasing and storage choices. Follow these steps to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet capability
• Checklist of daily and weekly cleaning chores

Clean Your House the Non-Toxic Way

1. Make a checklist of cleaning tasks and the products required to complete them. Compare your list of cleaning products with the Enviro$ense list of substitute cleaners. Make as many substitutions as you can (see Resources below).

2. Open the windows in your house while cleaning. Even in cooler temperatures, it's necessity to allow fresh air in to help rid the air of toxins released by traditional cleaners. Even if you make a switch to 100 percent natural cleaners, you still need to ventilate your home.

3. Eliminate clutter from your home. Old newspapers, magazines and half-filled boxes can quickly accumulate unwanted dust and allergens. Recycle these materials. When appropriate, donate them to charity.

4. Invest in air filtration systems for highly-trafficked areas. A child's room, the living room and the kitchen are good candidates. Inexpensive HEPA air filters can be found at your local hardware store.

5. Maintain a top-down approach when cleaning your entire house. Dusting and wiping down ceilings, crown molding and the tops of furniture will allow air filters and vacuums to pick up particles on the ground.

6. Replace vacuum bags regularly if using a traditional cleaner. Vacuum bags should be removed when they are 1/2 to 3/4 full--not when they're completely full. Check to make sure the bag is securely connected to avoid the release of waste.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep up with the chores and tasks needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Without constant attention, toxins and other detrimental materials can build up quickly in the home. For inspiration, read Annie Bond's "How to Make Your Own Non-Toxic Cleaning Kit" article on the Care2 Web site (see Resources below).
• Understand that you'll need more money for your cleaning budget when you adopt the idea of non-toxic living. Non-toxic and organic household products are often several times more expensive than their name brand counterparts.
• Wear protective gear and appropriate clothing for safe housekeeping. Rubber gloves, protective goggles and hats or hairnets should be worn.
• Prevent allergic reactions and illness by using organic cleaners properly. Symptoms like difficulty swallowing and blurred eyesight should be treated immediately by a medical professional.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.