Keep the Outside at the Door
Dr. Jones says it’s a good idea to place a large floor mat at every door. This keeps dirt, pesticides and other pollutants from entering your home. You’ll also want to remove any outer layers or shoes before stepping into your living area. Your clothes often contain dust and other allergens that could aid in decreasing the air quality in your home.
Ventilation is Key
Your stoves, fireplaces, heaters, range tops and exhaust fans should be well ventilated. The EPA recommends that these sources be vented to the outside far away from windows, heating ventilation and air conditioning intakes.
No Wood Burning
According to the New Hampshire Department of Health Services air containing wood smoke causes serious health risks to pregnant women. Wood smoke contains a number of harmful pollutants and potentially carcinogenic material such as: fine particulates, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, dioxins and furans.
Effective Vacuuming is a Must
When vacuuming your home use a HEPA filter to reduce the amount of dirt, toxins and lead in your home. The vacuum should also come equipped with rotating brushes and strong suction capabilities to reach that deeply ingrained dirt on carpet. In areas where there’s a lot of foot traffic be sure to vacuum over these areas several times. Vacuum at least two or more times a week and clean your filter regularly.
Use Microfiber Mops
What vacuuming won’t pick up, use a wet microfiber mop or cloth to remove the remaining dust and allergens. Most new microfiber don’t require any added cleaning solutions; plain water will due just fine according to the EPA.
No Smoking
This should go without being said, but absolutely no smoking in or around the household should be done while pregnant. Smoke fumes can also be trapped inside of the clothes of people who smoke, so make sure your laundry baskets are in rooms far away from you.