Get set for a healthy home

Decorating and designing a healthy home may sound like quite a burden, but do not despair; there are many ways to transform your home with quick and simple design tips.

The carpet has to go!
The concept of wall-to-wall carpeting was very popular in previous decades, however, with growing awareness of drawbacks in carpeting materials, many people are now turning to alterntive flooring options.  Wood, laminate, tile, and cork are all healthy and popular choices!  It is also important to note for all those people out there who are steam cleaning their carpets, although you may feel as though your are taking the dirt out of your rugs, you are actually causing mold and dust mites to fester as a result of the moisture that is infused into the carpeting during the cleaning process.  If the warmth of a rug is important to you try opting for large area rugs made from sisal, woven hemp or other natural materials.

Candle alternatives
Scented candles, plug-ins and other commercially formulated scents are a big turn off to sensitive noses! Try candles that are made from organic materials such as vegetable-based waxes or simply unscented candles.  If it's the smells that you are after, create your own fragrances by boiling herbs and spices over your stove, it will be sure to stir up an inviting aroma.  My favourite is boiling cinnamon sticks!

Bring in some Oxygen
Plants are a great way to create a healthier dwelling and a more attractive home.  Not only do plants bring the joy of the outdoors to your interior space but they also help filter pollutants while keeping the air in your home clean and fresh.

Toss those chemicals
Cleaning products can be extremely hazardous and vicious to the human body.  Inhaling chemicals are simply harmful, and there are several alternate solutions to creating natural cleaning products that are effective and naturally powerful!  Vinegar has been used for decades as a grandmother's secret! Let the undisclosed now be revealed, vinegar is a great solution for cleaning just about any surface in your home, from your floors to toilets.  Oil, and baking soda are other great ingredients, use baking soda as an abrasive for hard to clean surface.

Choose your paints carefully
If you are painting a nursery or a child's bedroom be sure to use eco-friendly paint.  Look our for paints that have low VOC's, causing very little or no off-gassing from the harmful compounds in the products.  These are also great paint choices for the rest of your home.

Use these everyday tips to make the most of your home!  Always remember that opening your windows on a weekly basis is a great way to allow fresh air to penetrate and refresh your rooms!

Discussion Topic: What have you done to make your house a healthy home?