Today’s world is very different than previous generations. More children than ever before are suffering from allergies and other health conditions that were unheard of in our grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ time. Health experts predict that hay fever, along with skin, dust and pest allergies affect up to 30 percent of the U.S. population.
There are many reasons for this, of course, but pollution is a major cause of many allergies and illnesses. This pollution comes from the air, cleaning products, pests and even food ingredients.
Luckily, most of us recognize that we only have one Planet Earth, and have taken steps to preserve and care for it so that future generations don’t have to suffer. When we learn to lessen our carbon footprints, we can also reduce harmful allergies, especially for our children. Here are some ways to protect your kids in this eco-friendly world.
Keep pests at bay
Dust mites, ants, mice and other pests all carry allergens and bacteria that can affect your child’s health and safety. While these are considered common nuisances, they can be dealt with effectively. Ants, for example, can be kept away by using cinnamon sticks and sugar, or spices like cayenne, depending on the type of ants you have infesting your home. You can decrease dust mites by keeping your home as clean and dust-free as possible. If you need help with getting rid of pests, call a professional service, such as https://www.moxieservices.com/.
Keep your home clean
You don’t have to turn into Martha Stewart, but find at least 30 minutes each day to clean and declutter. Dust the blinds, tidy the kitchen, clean under the bed and vacuum and dust the floors and furniture. Enlist everyone’s help to keep the house clean and tidy! It will give your kids a sense of accomplishment and it will help keep allergies from flaring up. Even toddlers can do their part by putting their toys and books away. Studies have proven that a clutter-free home helps keep your mental and physiological health in check too!
Turn on the air conditioning
Keep the outside air where it belongs – outside. When allergy season hits, make sure you keep your windows closed and if possible, turn on the air conditioner. The cooler air will circulate through your home to help keep pollen and other allergens from settling inside, making it a more comfortable environment for your kids.
Use eco-friendly cleaning products
Cleaning products that you find at your local supermarket are full of chemicals and ingredients that can be extremely harmful to you and your family, especially if they already suffer from allergies. This is also true for laundry detergent and fabric softener. Many companies have made the shift to more eco-friendly products, but home-made cleaners are inexpensive and just as effective as store-bought. Lemon juice, vinegar, Borax and baking soda all make ideal cleaning solutions that will clean and disinfect just as well (if not better) than expensive store bought brands; and they are much safer to use. Cleaners are full of chemicals and harmful ingredients that can cause allergic reactions in both children and adults.
Buying toxin-free products, making up your own DIY solutions, and keeping your home clear of pests and dust are just a few ways you can reduce your family’s allergy symptoms and keep a happy and healthy household.
