Taking Steps To Make Your Home Healthier and More Hospitable

Now that summer is here, we will be spending more of our time out-of-doors and having our windows open to let the fresh air in. Of course, there are many who cannot take the heat or where it"s just so oppressive that keeping a window open is impossible and the air conditioner comes on.

There are many steps that you can take to clear out potential toxins in your home and make it cleaner and healthier. Here are some of the steps we take in our living, eating and overall home environment to live healthier:

Fresh fruit is the best for your health and well-being, but make certain you wash all fruits and vegetables before you eat them. When you consider the miles your produce may have traveled and the number of people who may have handled it before it reaches your table, it makes sense to wash it thoroughly before eating it.

It"s healthier to use glass than plastic. Plastic is a convenience product, but the FDA completed a study that found plastic bottles contain small amounts of BPA are safe to use, but if you have glass, that is even safer. Be aware though that heating plastic can release the BPA and can lead to health concerns for some people. If you"re going to use plastic for food storage and heating, choose items labeled BPA-free.

Go green by making your own household cleansers. It"s easy to make all-natural cleaning products and it will also save you money. Baking soda, white vinegar and water can be easily mixed together and used to clean appliances, bath tubs and sinks and even be used as a cleanser for your tables.

The best way to be healthy at home is by opening your windows and doors and letting the fresh air and sunshine inside! If your home has been closed up for the winter, now is the time to take advantage of the warmer weather and simply air it out.

Run your appliances at night when the sun has gone down, and the heat abates. Running your dishwasher or your washer and dryer after the sun has gone down will help keep your home cooler during the day and could even save you money by using appliances after peak energy hours.

Opening the windows and blinds in the morning is a great way to take advantage of the cooler air and closing them in the afternoon will help preserve the coolness you"ve drawn in. Enjoy the warm summer months ahead!