We all want our houses to be safe, comfortable places where we can relax and unwind. But unfortunately, many houses contain hidden health hazards that may make us sick. From mold and dust mites to asbestos and lead paint, contaminants can affect our well-being without us even realizing there’s a problem. Let’s identify some of the most common health hazards in the home, what they mean for your family, and how you can fix them.
Health Hazards in the Home: Mold
Mold is one of the most common home health hazards. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as bathrooms and basements, often growing undetected. Mold is more than just unsightly; it releases spores into the air that can trigger allergy-like symptoms such as sneezing and coughing.
Keep surfaces dry to prevent mold growth in your home. Monitor the humidity level and keep it below 50%. If you find mold, clean it with 1 cup of bleach mixed with 1 gallon of water, or hire a professional to mitigate large areas of mold growth.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber used extensively during construction before 1980 due to its fireproof qualities. When asbestos fibers become airborne, they can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Contact a professional if you suspect your home has asbestos or if you are considering renovations in an older home. They will test for the material and make a plan for safe removal, as disturbing asbestos without proper protection is extremely hazardous.
Dust Mites are Common Health Hazards in the Home
Dust mites could be to blame if you suffer from allergies or asthma. These microscopic creatures feed on dead skin cells in household dust and thrive in warm, humid environments. While they aren’t dangerous by themselves (they don’t carry diseases), their waste products are highly allergenic, which can cause respiratory problems if not appropriately addressed.
Combatting dust mites requires regular cleaning – vacuuming carpets twice a week and washing bedding once a week. You may also want to invest in mattress covers to repel them since they can’t pass through these barriers.
Home should be a place where we feel safe and secure, but unfortunately, many homes contain hidden health hazards that could affect our well-being. Above are a few of the most common ones – mold, dust mites, and asbestos – and how to address them to keep your home healthy and safe for your family.
Boston Light Home Inspections provides home inspection services to customers in Massachusetts. Contact us to request an appointment.