8 ways to detox your home

The conversation around creating healthier homes is growing, and we are passionate about the changes being implemented through design and building. However, we hear time and again that people don’t know where to start when it comes to their existing homes.  As with many things, taking small steps is a valuable starting point:

1.      Cleaning Supplies: This one has become much easier in the last few years. but the emergence of Covid-19 has intensified the level of disinfecting in our spaces. We discovered Force of Nature through multiple medical professionals. It contains no toxic chemicals and is EPA- approved for use against Covid-19. It is electrolyzed water, salt and vinegar, and contains no added fragrances, dyes or preservatives. We also love that the bottle is reusable, reducing the amount of waste associated.

2.      Dishes & Cookware: Look for places to cut back on the plastic and aluminum when you can. Glass. Ceramics. Cast Iron. Pyrex  makes an excellent line of glass food storage containers with glass lids and silicone rims that are BPA, PVC and phthalate free. When shopping for non-stick cookware, there are several well-performing lines that are free of harmful components – look for products that are free of PFOA and PFAS.

3.      Building Materials & Furnishings: Building materials and furnishings can contain numerous hidden toxins. Formaldehyde, which is found naturally in small amounts in wood, is often added in higher quantities to pressed-wood furnishings, cabinetry and adhesives. We recommend using no-formaldehyde added products to limit exposure in the home. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are emitted gases from products which can have adverse health effects. That smell when you repaint your house - VOCs. Most paint manufacturers now offer low and no-VOC primers and paints. And while more delicate, mineral paint can be a valuable alternative for those with respiratory concerns.

4.      Light: Light can significantly impact our circadian rhythms, sleep, and mood. Before bed, avoid TV and screens which emit blue light and can interfere with production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Removing the TV from your bedroom and charging your phone in another room can remove the temptation. For a more involved strategy, place toe kick lighting in bathrooms on a motion sensor so you don’t have to turn on the lights in the middle of the night.

5.      Water quality: The water in our homes can contain a wide range of contaminants. Whole house/Point of Use water filtration systems filter all water that enters your house. These systems reduce the amount of contaminants in your home’s water, leading to higher quality water from the faucet to the shower to the washing machine. At a lower investment level, countertop units or pitchers can be great alternatives. Again, look for glass over plastic!

6.      Air filtration: Today’s air purifiers containing HEPA filters can capture up to 99% of dust and allergens in the home. Purifiers containing charcoal filters and UV-C light features work to capture and kill mold and bacteria. Also, give proper attention to leaks in the home– mold can build behind walls and lead to a range of health problems for occupants.

7.      Fragrances: We love a good candle, but synthetic fragrances in candles and air fresheners can be harmful and can exacerbate allergies and asthma. We recommend shopping through retailers who do the research on the front end and take out some of the guess work.

8.      Plants: In addition to adding color and life to your home, indoor plants help purify indoor air by removing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. Plants have also been shown to aid in focus and stress reduction. A starting point when it comes to plants for air filtration is one plant for every 100 square feet of space. 

The list above is a place to start, but the opportunities for improving the health of your home are extensive. Curated Studio prides itself on designing for the client. This expands beyond aesthetics, to the health and well-being of their families. From individuals with chronic health issues to parents welcoming a new baby, home should be a place of safety and comfort, and that is a driving factor in how we design.