Clean Up Indoor Air

Did you know that people in the U.S. spend 90% of their time indoors? It might seem safer and cleaner, but the EPA says indoor air pollution is one of the nation's most pressing personal health concerns. No worries, it's easy to reduce the risk. Start by replacing products that contribute to the problem, then try some other simple steps.

• Ventilate your home, especially the bedrooms and nursery, by opening windows. Even for a short time it makes a big difference.
• Change the filters in your air conditioning and heating units-and the bag in your vacuum cleaner-to greatly improve indoor air quality.

Use Natural Household Cleaners And Products

Prior to WWII, most household cleaning jobs utilized relatively safe ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar. Today, many chemicals in conventional cleaning products-chlorine bleaches, surface wipes, dish detergents, glass cleaners-have been connected to health problems. Fortunately, you have plenty of healthier options to choose from for cleaning your home easily and effectively.

• Look for safer ingredients in products labeled nontoxic, bio-based, chlorine-free, organic, phosphate-free, natural fragrance and/or biodegradable.
• Follow all directions because some natural choices are more concentrated than their conventional counterparts.

Use Plastic Products Wisely

Plastic provides a good amount of affordable convenience. Only recently have we discovered that the hidden cost may be our health. Some plastics have the potential to negatively affect health in certain applications.

• Replace vinyl chew toys made of soft plastic, especially any labeled "V" or "3." Opt for toys and books made with natural wood, cloth or metal.
• Avoid using plastic in the microwave or in contact with heat, oily or fatty foods, harsh cleaners or excessive moisture.
• Choose safer plastics such as polyethylene (#1, #2, and #4) and polypropylene (#5), which generally require the use of less toxic additives and are non-chlorinated. Avoid polycarbonate plastics and look for products that state "no phthalates."

Avoid Use Of All Pesticides And Insecticides

Though we often encourage children to "go out and play," exposure to common lawn care and indoor pesticides is identified by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) as potentially causing a range of health problems. Rather than stifling healthy activity in children, you can make healthier choices in pest control!

• Choose safer products for insecticides, pesticides, weed killers, lawn chemicals and flea/tick control.
• Encourage good habits, such as washing hands after being outdoors and taking shoes off at the door.

Eat More Organic Food

Organic foods are grown without potentially harmful, long-lasting synthetic chemicals. Choose organics to avoid the residues of conventional pesticides and to support a form of agriculture that's healthier for the planet.

• Eat organic fruits and veggies, or at least avoid these with the highest pesticide residues: apples, cherries, nectarines, peaches, pears, red raspberries, strawberries, bell peppers, carrots, celery, green beans, potatoes and spinach.
• Make wise protein choices with meat, poultry, seafood, eggs and milk products from animals raised on vegetarian feed without hormones or antibiotics.