Article by Carla Berezowski
Many people with weaker immune systems have been isolating for months believing they are safe from contamination risks because they are staying home. Did you know that, without you ever leaving your residence, viruses, germs, and bacteria can not only get into, but grow and spread throughout your home? It’s true. Consider how your groceries are handled. How about mail? Visitors?
A common misconception is that sanitizing and disinfecting achieve the same results when, in fact, there is a vast difference between the two. Sanitizing merely reduces the organics. Disinfecting destroys or renders inactive both bacteria and viruses (like influenza) on hard, nonporous surfaces or in the air you are breathing. Yes, you can disinfect the air you breathe safely without harsh chemicals.
Why does this matter? It matters because although sanitizing is great as a daily practice on countertops and sinks, it can give a false sense of security regarding the cleanliness of your surfaces. The same is true about using products that make your home smell pretty but do nothing to ensure the air you are breathing is truly clean.
The heating system in your home keeps you warm, but it can also make you sick. The furnace blower works like a big vacuum, sucking germs in. The blower then distributes what the furnace has “inhaled” and spreads it through your home. It is imperative homeowners stay on top of having their duct work cleaned and disinfected because they are literally breathing whatever is living inside them.
Harsh chemicals can cause severe reactions. No one should be breathing in possible carcinogens regularly. Over 150 chemicals found in the average home have been linked to birth defects, allergic reactions, cancer, and even psychologic disorders. In the top six listed as the worst for your health are air fresheners. They mask odors, but most do little to nothing for cleaning the air you breathe of potentially harmful agents.
Here are some ways to assure your health and safety:
- Be mindful of the products you are using and ensure you are fully disinfecting exposed surfaces (like your bathroom and kitchen counter tops) at least once a week.
- Wipe down non-porous products and containers that have come in from outside.
- Make sure you are breathing clean air by getting your ductwork deep cleaned and disinfected using a botanical or organic product applied by professionals.
- Don’t forget your furnace! Having your heating system inspected, cleaned, and maintained is imperative not only for the health of your home, but for safety as well.
- If you or a family member is struggling to adjust due to advancing years, call an expert who can address your concerns and consult with you regarding how to safely age-in-place.
- Do things you enjoy! Our mental well-being is just as important as our physical one.
- Get a proper air filtration and treatment system for your home… they truly work! If you don’t take care of yourself, who will?
