Along with taking care of ourselves and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we need to take care of our homes too. Bacteria and germs can linger in tight spaces and can be the culprit for colds, the flu, headaches, stomach pain and difficulty breathing. By regularly cleaning up in our home we can help prevent potential health hazards and limit the risk of getting sick. Be aware of these sick house symptoms and things in your home that can make you sick.

Air Quality

If you or someone in your family is experiencing shortness of breath, wheezing, sinus congestion, coughing and sneezing, it could possibly be from the poor air quality in your home. Sealing doors and windows too tightly can prevent fresh, outdoor air from getting inside, which is what our homes sometimes need. Toxins can build up indoors, especially from furnaces and air conditioners where the air isn’t being recycled creating harmful indoor air pollution. To help prevent poor air quality, be sure to open the windows and doors every so often. It will be especially nice to keep them open for longer periods of time during the warmer months. Also, clean any filter or vents to limit the spreading of bacteria and allergens.  

Dust

Is your home looking a little dusty? Watch out for those dust mites. They can trigger respiratory issues for individuals with asthma or allergies. Use a disposable duster with microfibers to frequently clean up dust and toss them out after. Rugs and carpets love to trap dust, so be sure to vacuum them regularly. Don’t forget to clean or change the filter on your vacuum every so often.

Mold

If not taken care of, your bathroom can become a breeding ground for mold if it’s filled with too much moisture and heat. Having mold in your home can make you sick and can irritate your eyes, nose and mouth. One of the best ways to prevent mold is to address any moisture problems you may have in your home such as leaky windows or not enough ventilation.

Bedding

Blankets, pillows and mattresses require proper washing at least once a week as they contain plenty of skin cell particles, sweat, bacteria, dirt and dust. Unclean bedding can also cause eye irritations and allergic reactions. Your bed is one of the best places to get cozy and comfortable in your home, so be sure to take care of it and it will take care of you.

Shared Electronic Devices

We all enjoy using our smartphones, tablets, TV remotes and laptops, but these items can become hosts for bacteria and viruses. Cleaning these devices may seem daunting, but there are products available that are electronic-friendly. If someone in your family is sick, wipe down these devices more often to help stop the spreading of germs.

Chemicals

The harsh cleaning chemicals you use in your home can pose a risk to your health. If these chemicals accidentally get on your skin, they can irritate the skin leading to a chemical burn. Some cleaning products may omit toxic fumes, which can be very dangerous. To help prevent exposure to these harsh cleaning chemicals, wear gloves or a mask when you are using them or opt for more products with more natural and eco-friendly ingredients.

Food Handling

An upset stomach could be from improper food washing or prepping. Food safety is a critical component of cooking. Temperature, storage and sanitation are important factors when it comes to preparing our favourite foods. Make sure you wash your hands before handling any food especially after petting your cat or dog or blowing your nose. Clean kitchen surfaces before or after meal times.  When cooking for pregnant women, seniors and young children, use extra caution as they can be more sensitive to improper cleaning and cooking of food.

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