It’s that time of year when everybody feels the urge to purge. The holidays can be a wonderful time of excess, but many of us are ready to dial it back a little come January. That often means cleaning and decluttering your home. Which, let’s be honest, can feel like a chore. So what if we reframe the idea of getting our houses in order in 2022? What if, instead, we think about not just cleaning and decluttering, but also creating healthier spaces? How would it feel to live in a home that’s dedicated to wellbeing – both yours and your loved ones? If this sounds exciting to you, then read on for our best advice about creating a healthier home in 2022.

Keep dirt outside where it belongs

“I love vacuuming!” said no one ever. While we all appreciate clean floors, keeping them clean can be a real chore. One way to keep floors clean and cut down on vacuuming is to take a preventive approach. First, use doormats both inside and outside your front door. This will cut way down on how much dirt gets tracked inside. Second, always remove your shoes at the door and wear slippers in the house. You will be amazed at how these two simple adjustments can make a drastic difference in how clean your floor is.

Clean the air

Did you know that the air inside your home can have anywhere between two and five times the amount of pollution as the air outside? You can combat this problem in a few different ways. First, open windows whenever possible to let in the fresh air. Second, consider getting some houseplants that are known for cleaning the air. Other tactics to try include using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, running the bathroom fan for 20 minutes after a shower, and installing a range hood over your stove. And, of course, avoid smoking inside.

Be cautious with fragrances

It can be tempting to mask common odors with fragranced products like cleaning sprays, scented candles, and laundry detergent. But these products can often contain harmful chemicals that could potentially cause allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free products instead.

Choose machine-washable fabrics

Do you feel like you’re constantly battling allergens in your home? Dust and other microscopic particles can easily accumulate in fabrics. So consider choosing upholstery and fabric that is machine washable. You can now find curtains, bedspreads, couch cushions, and even rugs that can be tossed in the wash. Also swap out your shower curtain for one that is machine washable, to cut down on mold and mildew. Just remember to launder them regularly.

Create an electronics-free zone

Finally, consider your mental health as well as your physical health. Our homes are no longer just places where we go to rest at the end of the day. They can also be our schoolrooms, our offices, and our gyms. Perhaps you’re finding it difficult to unwind at home. If so, consider creating an electronics-free zone. This can be a quiet corner or an entire room. The only requirement is that it is free of phones, tablets, computers, TVs, and video games. We all need to unplug regularly, and this is a great way to help prioritize your emotional wellbeing.

Contact Keller New York today!

Are you ready to buy or sell a New York home? Then contact the Keller New York Bronx office at 718-697-6800 or the Eastchester – Scarsdale office at 914-713-3270 today. We hope that 2022 brings you and your loved ones abundant happiness and good health!