From MP3 players to e-books, technology is an integral part of the modern home. However, when we think of technology and how we use it on a daily basis, entertainment is top of mind, not health and wellness. As a doctor and a mom, Jennifer Trachtenberg, Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and pediatrician at The Mount Sinai Medical Center, recommends four household gadgets that will help make for a healthier home and family.

Air purifier: The EPA says levels of indoor air pollution can be between two to five times higher than outdoor air. Poor indoor air quality can negatively impact many people's health. In fact, some cold-like symptoms, including sneezing, sore throats and running noses can be triggered by indoor allergens such as dust, mold spores and pet dander which are commonly found in indoor air. One way to improve indoor air quality can be to use air purifiers. One such air purifier is the Honeywell HEPAClean UV Tower Air Purifier which is a new model that combines three air cleaning technologies: carbon zeolite pre-filter which can reduce common household odors, ultraviolet light which can reduce viruses, bacteria, fungi and mold spores and HEPAClean filters which can remove up to 99 percent of allergens from the air passing through the filter.

Thermometer: Fever is often one of the first signs of the flu, and also a sign when you're most contagious. When temperature-taking, reach for technology that is accurate and trusted. The Braun ThermoScan Ear Thermometer is used by more pediatricians and moms in the U.S. than any other brand. This advanced thermometer is proven to be more accurate than rectal and temple measurements and features patented technology, such as its pre-warmed tip and positioning guidance system that ensures accuracy every time.

Humidifier: Keeping the air a little moister can relieve your children's congestion and coughs, and help them sleep better. A humidifier adds essential moisture to any room, providing temporary relief from dry eyes, dry nose, flakey skin, and chapped lips. When selecting a model right for you, it's important to look for new humidifier technologies like the ultraviolet light chamber in the Vicks GermFree Humidifier that kills up to 99.9 percent of mold and bacteria in the water.

Hygrometer: Keeping the humidity level at a good balance in your house is important for relieving chest congestion, soothing parched skin and even reducing static electricity in the air. If you think your home humidity levels might not be up to par, a hygrometer is a handy device available at most drug stores. Hygrometers provide a digital readout of the relative humidity in your home, and are compact and low-cost. New research indicates the flu will have less of a chance of surviving on surfaces and in the air if you use your hygrometer and humidifier together to keep humidity at the ideal 40 to 60 percent level.

With just a few handy gadgets, you can ensure a healthier living space for yourself and your family.

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