Homelife is an integral part of a child’s upbringing. It can be a place of comfort, security, and love. However, the home can also be a source of many types of disease. Mold, bacteria, and viruses can thrive in homes and spread quickly to family members. You can take several steps to protect your family from these dangers, especially the children.
1. Keep the home clean and free of clutter
Bacteria and viruses thrive in dirty environments. Keep your home clean by regularly sweeping, vacuuming, and dusting. Get rid of clutter to create a more open and spacious environment. This will make it easier to clean and reduce the number of places where mold and bacteria can grow. A clean home is a healthy home. It is also a safer home for children, who are more susceptible to getting sick.
2. Minimize the home’s exposure to germs and allergens
Mold can grow in the dark, damp areas such as basements if not properly cared for. Make sure your basement is frequented so that mold doesn’t have time to spread and grow on surfaces that you do not see or use often.
A home with central air conditioning will cut down on allergens from dust mites and pollen because it removes them from the house before they have a chance to settle into upholstery and carpets. Vacuuming at least once a week will reduce the amount of dust lying around that could trap mold spores. Frequent hand washing, especially before touching or feeding children, can reduce the risk of germs.
3. Do not allow children to play in areas that are inaccessible for cleaning
If someone is sick, do not allow them in your home when you cannot properly clean and disinfect their area. If they must come over, make sure they wash their hands when entering the house and stay out of common areas like the kitchen or bathroom until they feel better.
4. Have your home checked at least every year by an exterminator
Many types of bacteria like to live in kitchens and bathrooms because it is warm inside and food particles provide a source of moisture (for mold). The presence of bugs like mice also increases the chance of bacteria and viruses spreading. Having your home checked by a pest control professional or an exterminator at least once a year can help get rid of any pests that may carry disease and keep your home healthy.
5. Look into home renovations that can improve your family’s health
If there are areas of the home with visible mold, leaks, or areas where dirt builds up, it may be time to consider home renovations. Renovating certain parts of the house can help to remove any bacteria or viruses. Replacing windows and doors can allow for better airflow through the home, which will reduce allergens from circulating around the house.
6. Keep children far away from hazardous substances
The home is full of hazardous materials like cleaning products, paint (which emits fumes), lighter fluid (which contains carcinogens), pesticides, etc., that children should not come into contact with under any circumstances. Make sure to keep all items in the home safely and securely stored and out of reach of children.
7. Keep toys clean
Children love to touch and play with everyday household items like stuffed animals, board games, etc., that could be home to germs like salmonella, E. coli, and other bacteria. Have a weekly toy cleaning routine where you place all the toys your child plays with into a sink or large bin filled halfway with water and bleach (1/8 cup per gallon).
Allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes before allowing them to air dry before returning them to your child’s room or play area. This can help reduce the number of bacteria spread around the home that cause diarrhea, upset stomachs, rashes, etc.
8. Make sure home appliances are child-proofed and electrical outlets are covered
It is easy for children to get curious about home appliances like ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, etc., that have hot surfaces or sharp blades inside them that can cause severe burns or cuts on their young skin. To keep your home safe, make sure all home appliances are kept securely locked away in a place where children cannot gain access to them.
It is also important to remember to use protectors over your home’s electrical outlets. If they are not covered, there is a high chance your child will stick an object inside the outlet, causing severe shock or damage to the home’s electrical system.
Taking these precautions can help reduce the chances of getting sick in your home. Remember that the most important thing is to practice good hygiene habits like handwashing and keeping surfaces clean. With a bit of effort, you can keep your family safe and healthy.
