Create a healthier living environment by reducing harmful toxins with these simple, effective strategies.
Did you know there are 500 to 1,000 toxic chemicals lurking in your home?
That's right. Toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde, asbestos, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), flame retardants, and BPA are found in numerous common household items including paper products, paints, bathroom cleaners, water bottles, and many more.
Although exposure to small doses of these chemicals may not be harmful, in combination or in large amounts, these toxins can cause a number of health issues affecting our respiratory, circulatory, reproductive, cardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems.
In fact, chemical off-gassing from household products, cigarette smoke, airborne allergens, and viruses can promote "sick-building syndrome," which causes symptoms such as:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Dry cough
- Skin irritation
- Nausea and fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
Just as we detox our bodies from sugar or caffeine, it's beneficial to detox your home on occasion. Here are four effective ways to minimize toxic chemicals in your living space:
1Add Plants to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Not only are plants the perfect aesthetic touch to any interior, but they can actually improve indoor air quality by removing toxins from the atmosphere.
A study by NASA found that indoor plants absorb harmful toxins through their leaves and roots, acting as natural air filters by removing carbon dioxide and increasing oxygen levels.
Best Plants for Air Purification:
- • Snake Plant
- • Golden Pothos
- • Aloe Vera
- • Peace Lily
- • Boston Fern
- • Spider Plant
2Consider the Products You Bring Into Your Home
Although "going organic" might seem like just another trend, it's a legitimate strategy for reducing toxic exposure in your home.
Be selective about the brands you use. Research what materials are used in products and where they're manufactured. Prioritize brands that clearly disclose their ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Many companies now recognize the importance of ethically sourced, organic materials. For example, Leesa Sleep is a Certified B-Corporation meeting high standards for social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
Shopping Tips for Non-Toxic Household Items:
- Choose biodegradable household cleaning products that disclose all ingredients and avoid synthetic fragrances
- Avoid aerosol spray cans which contain propellants and VOCs
- Address pest problems at their source rather than using chemical pesticides
- Select low-VOC or non-PVC paints for home improvement projects
- Use glass containers instead of plastic when possible, or choose BPA-free plastics
- Reduce consumption of canned foods (can linings often contain BPA)
3Vacuum and Dust Regularly
One of the most common places for toxins and allergens to accumulate is in household dust. House Cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy home environment.
A study conducted by the NRDC found that 90% of dust samples contained toxic chemicals—approximately 45 different types across five main chemical classes, including phthalates, flame retardants, fragrances, and environmental phenols.
Effective Cleaning Tips:
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap small particles
- Dust with a damp microfiber cloth to prevent particles from becoming airborne
- Clean high-traffic areas at least weekly
- Don't forget often-overlooked areas like ceiling fans, baseboards, and under furniture
- Wash bedding in hot water weekly to reduce dust mites
4Install Proper Protection Systems
While it's impossible to completely eliminate all toxins from your home, you can take precautionary measures to protect yourself and your family from potential pollutants.
Air Quality Protection
- Install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor
- Consider an air purifier with HEPA filtration
- Ensure proper ventilation, especially in kitchens and bathrooms
- Use exhaust fans when cooking or using chemical products
Water Safety
- Have your water tested for lead and other contaminants
- Install a whole-house water filter or point-of-use filters
- Use a shower filter to reduce chlorine exposure
- Consider a reverse osmosis system for drinking water
Additional protective measures:
- Always ventilate when painting or using chemical products
- Remove shoes at the door to prevent tracking in outdoor pollutants
- Use natural pest control methods whenever possible
- Choose natural building materials for renovations
Creating a Healthier Home Environment
The average American spends 90% of their time indoors, with much of that time at home. Taking steps to reduce toxic chemicals in your living space can have significant benefits for your health and wellbeing.
By implementing these four strategies—adding plants, choosing safer products, cleaning regularly, and installing protective systems—you can create a healthier home environment for yourself and your family.
Remember that detoxing your home is an ongoing process. Start with small changes and gradually work toward a cleaner, healthier living space.