Dial-a-Maid
Minimizing the amount of toxins polluting the interior of your home includes everything from introducing fewer caustic substances to your home to watching the dirt that enters your home, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service in Evanston, Il.
* Use less-toxic cleaning products. changing to greener versions of products is a place to start. If you are unable to do that, at least water down the products you use. Water is a universal solvent. The products will still work, but you will be lessening the potential health risks. You do not need to make radical changes to make a difference. The other alternative is to use completely non-toxic substances, such as vinegar and baking soda, to perform the majority of your cleaning tasks. By using fewer toxic substances, you decrease indoor air pollutants and allergens.
* Create a "shoes-off" policy. Shoes carry dirt and other various pollutants on their bottoms. Having everyone take their shoes off and leave them by the door minimizes the amount of pollutants traveling through your house. It also makes cleaning up easier, as less dirt will get tracked in on flooring and carpeted surfaces. Consider designating a special space for shoe storage. A bench, chest, or other low storage unit can neatly store shoes. A unit that provides a seating area for putting shoes on is even better. If you have a garage or mudroom, you can insist that everyone enter the house through those areas.
* Designate an area for coats, boots, and sports equipment. Besides being a source of pollution, these items tend to gather more dirt in general. If they are left outside or by the door, it minimizes the amount of cleaning you have to do everywhere else. Less vacuuming and floor mopping means less work for you. It also means you will need to use fewer cleaning products. Fewer cleaning products means less chemicals, so this concept eliminates multiple air pollutants.
* Limit pet access to certain areas. Pets are often considered to be members of the family and are therefore given the run of the house. This may be enjoyable, but they do increase in-home pollutants. They carry more dirt, germs, and insects. Furry pets shed, and pets in water tanks increase the chances of mold and mildew. If you are able, limit pet access to areas away from bedrooms, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service in Evanston, Il. All of the above suggestions are in The Complete Guide o Eco-Friendly House Cleaning by Anne B.Kocsis.
