Living on Chicago’s North Shore means being very familiar with a long winter and extended time indoors during the colder months. Although we’ve had somewhat of a milder winter, many of us are still spending a majority of our days staying warm in our homes.
Consequently, spending more time indoors can translate into more sickness as germs tend to get “trapped” inside. As a North Shore Real Estate agent, I thought it would be important to note some of the ways in which you can create a healthy living environment in your North Shore home! Having a healthy home can result in better health for you!
Charles Furlough, Vice President of Pillar to Post Home Inspections, recently noted eleven tips to ensure your home is in good health. While seemingly small, these tips can make a big difference.
1. Use vacuums with HEPA filters. Your seafoam-green Electrolux from 1968 might be a great retro design statement, but it’s not healthy to use anymore.
2. Use high-efficiency furnaces and hot-water heaters. Your local heating company can give you information on the newest, most efficient models.
3. Seal all gaps around your windows and doors. Some pollutants are tracked in on foot, but others float in through minuscule cracks.
4. Have your basement waterproofed to prevent mold from proliferating.
5. If you’ve been sleeping on your pillows for more than six months, there are probably enough dust mites on them to do the final dance number from a big Broadway musical. Change your pillows at least twice a year. And wash all bedding at least once a week—in hot water—to reduce the instance of allergens.
6. Avoid flannel pajamas as they contain synthetic fabrics that can house volatile compounds. While we’re on the subject of clothing—give all washable clothes you buy one wash, with Borax, before wearing.
7. When you’re buying your kids a toy, look for any labeling that indicates that Latex, neoprene or vinyl (PVC) is in it. If any of these substances are used, leave the item in the store. It’s not good for you—or your child.
8. When you’re done painting a room in your home, don’t store the paint for later use. Instead, write down the color name and number—most major paint companies have readily available touch-up containers in small sizes. (Similarly, don’t keep solvents, pesticides and fertilizers hanging around either).
9. Use doormats. Not only do they make people feel welcome—they whisk the germs off their feet before they have the chance to enter your home.
10. Whenever you can replace a porous surface with a smooth one, do so. A sleek leather rug collects fewer allergens than a loopy shag rug.
11. Taking shorter showers is good for the environment, but it still exposes you to chlorine. Use a carbon filter on your showerhead to help reduce your exposure to chlorine and other harmful chemicals.
Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert
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