How Can Families or Communities Lower Children’s Exposure to Pesticides and Pest Control?

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pehsu
07/20/2026
  • Families and communities can take simple actions to reduce children’s exposure to pesticides. Below are some examples:
    • Use a doormat and remove shoes before entering the home to reduce pollutants carried inside.  
    • Buy organic food when possible, but not at the expense of a diet rich in a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Wash or peel produce before eating it, especially if it’s one of the “dirty dozen.”
    • Clean your home frequently: use soap, microfiber cloths/mops and a HEPA filter vacuum (vacuums without HEPA filters may spread fine dust around even more!).
    • Minimize sanitizers and disinfectants. If you need them, choose from the EPA Safer Choice list.
    • If you work with pesticides, wear coveralls and change out of work clothes at the worksite to avoid contaminating your vehicle and home.
      • Wash work clothes in hot water separately from your family’s.
      • Shower as soon as you get home and before playing with your kids.
    • Don’t use pesticides in your home or on your lawn or garden unless absolutely necessary.
      • Adopt Integrated Pest Management practices that stop pests before they even enter your home. Examples include frequently cleaning crumbs, stopping leaks, plugging holes under your doors or walls, and storing food in sealed containers where pests cant get them.
      • Avoid using pesticide sprays, total release foggers or bug “bombs.” Use traps instead.
      • Always store pesticides in the containers they come in and keep them in locked cabinets. Don’t leave pesticides within the reach of children. If you do use a pesticide, read the label and follow the directions for use.
      • When using topical pesticides or dips for treating pets for fleas/ticks, thoroughly wash hands after use. Keep children away from pets after applying flea control medicines until dried or as advised on label.
      • For treating lice, over the counter 1% permethrin or pyrethrins can be used with careful attention to instructions. 
Type: Children's Health Issue: Pesticides & PestsInfo For: Families & CommunitiesPEHSU: National PEHSUExposure Pathway: FoodSoilWater