With so many people staying home because of COVID-19, this is the optimum time to “detoxify” your surroundings and “cleanse” your environment. Even small things you do — like swapping out plastic or eliminating certain products — can make your space healthier and more comfortable.
Here are some quick tips on how to create a healthier environment, as well as answers to common questions about extra cleaning during the pandemic.
1. Reduce plastic exposure.
- Get a stainless-steel water bottle.
- Buy unwrapped whole fruits and veggies as much as you can.
- Test your tap water. You can buy sample kits online, and if you find your tap water is not good, make sure the bottled water you buy is in glass.
- When you have to buy on the go, avoid plastic containers for beverages like sports drinks, sodas and juices. Buy the glass or aluminum can option whenever possible.
- Make sure your lunch box and leftover containers are stainless steel or glass. For cooking and reheating, it’s super important not to use plastic as it does release more harmful toxins when heated.
2. Improve air quality.
- Buy an inexpensive air monitor. They plug in and tell you when your air quality is bad. They can narrow the details down to dust and chemicals and even function as a carbon monoxide detector.
- Invest in a high-quality air purifier.
- Air out your home frequently. Open the windows and get new air in, even if you live in the city. Regular ventilation is extremely important.
- Avoid heavily scented candles, plug-ins, diffusers and air-sprays. Instead, opt for fresh flowers.
- Decorate with lots of live plants. Large-leaf plants will clean the air for you.
3. Limit use of Wi-Fi and electronics.
- Make sure your Wi-Fi router is not in your bedroom or an area where you sit, like your desk. The router should be several feet away from any place where anyone sits for long periods of time.
- Do not sleep with wireless devices in your bedroom. If you must sleep with your phone next to you, make sure you turn the Wi-Fi off.
- Do not use wireless headphones. This is the same thing as holding a cell phone to your head. Use a headset that plugs into your phone when talking.
- Do not store devices on your body when the Wi-Fi is on, such as tucking your phone into your bra or pocket, or sitting with your laptop on your legs, stomach or chest. Placing a device on a table is always best.
- Consider purchasing an RF monitoring device.
Commonly Asked Questions About Cleaning
How often do I need to clean my home?
If you’re leaving your home every day, clean the door knobs, cell phones and phone cases and car steering wheel daily. For homebound folks, there is no need to clean daily if you’re not having any visitors.
What do I clean with?
Use a good pure soap, like castile, or plant-based cleaner with warm water. Save the bleach and alcohol-based cleaners for items that come into contact with others outside the home.
How do I clean each surface and item?
Use a washable cloth with texture that will help scrub off germs and that can be washed in hot water after each daily use, to be reused again.
Do I need disposables?
If you live alone and are cleaning your own home, you don’t need to wear gloves, unless cleaning the toilets, which is mainly for other diseases you could pick up. But always wear gloves and a mask if you live with someone else or have guests; dispose of those items when done.
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