A pesticide is any chemical or substance used to deter pests. Pests can be found in either plant or animal form, and they cause damage to crops. Therefore, pesticides are something of a necessary evil in agriculture. However, this does not mean that they are safe. Scientists do not yet possess a fully comprehensive understanding of the detrimental effects of pesticides. This does not mean that there is no cause for alarm, unfortunately. Recent research findings show a direct correlation between pesticide exposure and a number of health problems including impaired motor function in children, Parkinson’s disease in adults, and general cognitive decline.
As parents, the last thing you want is for your child to have developmental problems or difficulty with movement when they are just starting out in the world. Prenatal exposure to pesticides can impact your little one when they are learning basic movements including grasping or reaching, so it’s important to figure out how to eliminate pesticides from your home:
Eat Organic
You might spend a bit extra, but organic foods are brought to the supermarket shelf without the use of pesticides, so it’s worth it. If the food you want isn’t available in the organic section, make sure you wash it thoroughly and remove the skin if possible.
Getting Rid of Pests
You can get rid of pests without resorting to pesticides by simply addressing the root cause of the infestation in your home. For example, if you have ants, look for the entry point and seal any cracks that are allowing them inside. Cleaning regularly will also prevent pests from making a home inside yours, as there will be no tasty crumbs for them to eat.
Organic Cleaning and Beauty Products
There is an abundance of online recipes that allow you to avoid any chemicals, even for cleaning your floors and windows. You can even go as far as to make your own natural makeup, moisturizer and shampoo! If you really want to live a healthier life, the options are out there!
Pesticides in Industry
The unfortunate thing about pesticides and other harmful chemicals is that they are widely used in any industries. From cereals to fabrics, pesticides are used in many of the products we buy. You can’t control the manufacturing process of companies, but you can make changes in your own life. Did you know that even the materials you choose for your clothes and bedding can make an abundant difference? Consider this:
Cotton Versus Bamboo
When we think of cotton, we often think of a material that is white, fluffy, and homely. Once you learn of the way cotton is manufactured, you might think twice. There are nineteen states in America that grow cotton, and when you combine their use of pesticides, it accounts for a quarter of pesticide use across the entire country. For every pound of cotton that is harvested, almost one third of a pound of pesticide is used.
This is why for your baby’s clothes and bedding you should seriously consider choosing bamboo over cotton. Bamboo is grown without the use of pesticides, so it is much safer for you and your family. The idea of a ‘natural’ fabric is often confusing, but bamboo truly is an all natural substance that is grown and processed in an organic manner. So while you’re making sure that you and your family eat organic, don’t forget to also dress organic! Natural living to the best of your ability is the best weapon you have against the introduction of harmful chemicals into your home. Thus, simply making a few minor diet and lifestyle changes is the key to eliminating pesticides from your home.