(RxWiki News) While every home has some potentially dangerous items, it's particularly important to protect children from harmful chemicals. Canadian experts offer five easy tips to help keep homes toxin-free for children – to protect them as well as future generations.
The Canadian Partnership for Children's Health and Environment (CPCHE) suggest to eliminate toxins, you’ll want to follow these five tips that can help you detoxify your home:
Dust frequently
Use a vacuum, wet mop or damp cloth to get rid of house dust. Dust can contain lead, which even in small amounts can be harmful to brain development in children.
The Canadian House Dust Study found that a large amount of lead -which can be absorbed by the body -was found in house dust, ranging from 8 to 3916 parts per million.
It is especially important to protect infants and even fetuses (unborn babies) because they absorb 50 percent of the lead, says Bruce Lanphear, M.D., M.P.H, from Simon Fraser University and COCGE advisor.
Use non-toxic cleaners
Baking soda can be used to clean tubs and sinks. Vinegar mixed with water can be used to clean surfaces, windows and floors.
CPCHE experts urge against the use of "air fresheners" or laundry detergents that have fragrance because they have been known to interfere with regular hormone function.
The Canadian Medical Association also suggests parents avoid using antibacterial soaps as well.
Stay clear of areas being renovated
Pregnant women and children should stay away from areas that are being renovated according to CPCHE. Paint, caulking and glues can carry toxins with them, so it is important to seal off these areas to keep families protected.
Say no to plastic
Plastic products contain many chemicals like Bisphenol-A (BPA) and PVC that harm children. Don’t ever use plastic containers and wrap in the microwave, even if it says microwave-safe. The chemicals from the melting plastic can get into the food.
PVC is often found in vinyl, which used to be found in baby toys, bibs, shower curtains and raincoats. The CPCHE experts say to get rid of old toys and teethers that were made from such products.
Choose low-mercury fish
Atlantic mackerel, herring, rainbow trout, wild or canned salmon and tilapia are fish that have lower levels of mercury. Mercury is a metal that’s toxic to the brain.
Choose light tuna instead of "white" tuna and albacore CPCHE experts say.
Using these tips can help keep provide a better environment for you, your home and the future.
