10 Home Health Tips for this School Year

Kick off a new school year with a reset and retooling of routines, especially those that prioritize well-being. Whether it's your child's first time in school or they're moving up a grade, use this guide to keep your home cleaner and improve indoor air quality throughout the entire year for your family.

1. Remove extra clutter.

Not only does it feel good to get rid of things you no longer need, but excess clutter can collect dust, pet dander or mold that release into the air. Sort through your items to determine what to keep, what to donate and what to throw away or recycle.

2. Switch to cleaner cleaning supplies.

Harsh chemicals — including volatile organic chemicals, ammonia and bleach—can be found in cleaning products. Review the labels of your products for natural cleaning agents, or make your own at home with ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice and vinegar.

3. Change your air filter.

Your HVAC system’s air filter needs to be swapped out at least every three months for the best performance. Consider installing a Filtrete™ Air Filter to capture microscopic materials like smoke, bacteria, dust and pollen that can reside in your home’s air.

4. Use a dehumidifier.

Excessive moisture, especially in damp spaces like showers and baths, can lead to mold growth, producing allergens and irritants. Place your dehumidifier in the room where the most moisture collects, and set the device between 30 and 50% humidity.¹

5. Start a no-shoes rule.

Anything you or your family step on outside will likely make its way into your home. Set up a basket or rack by your front door to kick off shoes as soon as you come inside. Not only does this reduce the dirt and dust brought into your home, but it can also prevent harmful road chemicals from damaging your floors.

6. Check radon and carbon monoxide detectors.

Radon and carbon monoxide (CO) are two gases that can’t be seen or smelled, but if your home isn’t ventilated properly, they can cause damage to the lungs. Check and test your home’s radon and CO detectors to make sure they are still working properly and change out batteries as needed.

7. Opt for natural scents.

Burning candles may create a welcoming and relaxing space, but homes with candle-burning occupants are shown to have significantly higher levels of airborne particles.² Instead, opt for DIY remedies like simmering dried herbs, spices or sliced citrus in a pot of water on the stove.

8. Use fewer plastic containers.

Plastic water bottles and food containers are likely in your regular rotation when packing school lunches, but some products contain chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Look for glass or ceramic containers instead.

9. Vacuum regularly.

A regular vacuum schedule can help prevent dirt or dust that has been tracked into your home from settling in rugs, carpets or furniture. Be sure to target high-traffic areas and hard-to-reach spots where dust can settle unnoticed.

10. Grow air-cleansing plants.

Add a bright spot to your home while also promoting good air quality by placing plants in your home. Greenery like spider plants, peace lilies and bamboo can help eliminate pollutants from the air while bringing a little life to your space.

Sources

1. “Mold.” Environmental Protection Agency. 2022.

2. “Living Room.” Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. 2023.