Like most people, you probably get sick more often in the winter than at any other time. And while there are many reasons for this (including the fact that you’re indoors more and exposed to more germs), there’s one primary culprit you often overlook: your home.
Think about it: you spend most of your time at home, so it stands to reason that the microorganisms that make you sick are most likely lurking there. Studies have shown that the average home is teeming with all sorts of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes—with some estimates putting the number as high as 10 million. That’s a lot of germs!
So, what are the most common causes of sickness in the home? Keep reading to find out.
Poor ventilation
One of the most common causes of sickness in the home is poor ventilation. This is especially true in winter when you tend to keep your windows closed to stay warm. But by doing so, you’re also trapping all the germs and bacteria floating inside your home. As these microorganisms build up, they can make you sick.
To prevent this, open your windows for at least 15 minutes daily to let in the fresh air. You should also invest in an air purifier, which can help remove some harmful microbes from your home. Air purifiers are known to be especially effective at reducing the risk of respiratory infections. They also help in reducing asthma and allergy symptoms.
Exposure to toxins and chemicals
Another common cause of sickness in the home is exposure to toxins and chemicals. These days, many of us are using cleaning products loaded with chemicals—and these chemicals can make us sick if we’re exposed to them too frequently. Some cleaning products have been linked to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even cancer. So, it’s essential to be aware of the ingredients in your cleaning products and use them sparingly.
In many homes, swimming pools contain high levels of chlorine, which can also be harmful if you’re exposed to it too often. Thankfully, there are modern solutions that help homeowners have lower pool PH without harmful chemicals. These solutions, based on minerals, are a much safer option for you and your family. They are also more effective at keeping your pool clean.
Pests
Another common cause of sickness in the home is pests. Rodents, cockroaches, and other pests can all carry harmful bacteria and viruses that can make you sick. Studies have shown that cockroaches are responsible for spreading 33 different bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella.
To prevent pests from making you sick, keeping your home clean and free of food debris is essential. You should seal any cracks or openings that pests could use to get into your home. And if you do see any pests, be sure to call a professional to have them removed as quickly as possible.
Pet allergies
Another common cause of sickness in the home is pet allergies. According to estimates from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as many as 15 percent of people in the United States are allergic to pet dander—which can trigger all sorts of health problems, from runny noses and watery eyes to asthmatic attacks. This is why keeping your home clean if you have pets is so important.
Vacuum regularly and use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces where pet dander could accumulate. You should also bathe your pets regularly to help reduce the amount of dander they produce. And if you’re still having trouble managing your allergies, talk to your doctor about possible treatments, such as allergy shots.
Dirty surfaces
Another common cause of sickness in the home is dirty surfaces. We touch so many things throughout the day—doorknobs, light switches, countertops, phones, keyboards—and if these surfaces are not cleaned regularly, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. As a result, it’s essential to clean all high-touch surfaces daily.
You should also be cleaning less-used surfaces, such as floors and walls, every week. And don’t forget to disinfect areas with a sickness outbreak, such as a bathroom or kitchen. By taking these simple steps, you can help reduce the spread of illness in your home.
Final thoughts
Being aware of the common causes of sickness in the home is the first step in keeping your family healthy. By taking some simple steps to prevent exposure to toxins, chemicals, pests, and dirty surfaces, you can help reduce the risk of illness in your home. And if someone does get sick, be sure to clean and disinfect any areas where they may have been to help prevent the spread of illness.
