When we talk about the dangers of air pollution, we usually mean haze over cities, smoke belching from cars and factories, and toxic gases caused by chemicals. However, indoor air, whether at home, work, or school, is often more polluted than the air we breathe outdoors. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air is usually 2 to 5 times dirtier than outdoor air. These pollutants come from household products and cleaners we use every day, as well as the materials used in furniture and construction.
Pets and dust also contribute to poor indoor air quality. Dust mites are one of the top causes of home allergies. Mold infestations also cause symptoms that are similar to an allergy. Pet hair and dander can also trigger sneezing, coughing, and runny noses. Even if you try your best to keep your home clean, it still might not be completely free of allergens and other irritants. This could pose an issue for people with allergies and asthma. It could be years before symptoms start to show up.
Pollutants and irritants have become a more significant issue in recent months. Many people now spend most of their days at home, and without regular exposure to the outdoors, the poor indoor air quality can exacerbate symptoms and illnesses. Here are a few easy ways to improve your air quality at home:
1. Keep the air flowing
One of the best ways to improve air quality is to keep the air flowing. Ensuring a steady flow prevents the air from becoming stagnant and ensures that the air supply is constantly refreshed. Proper ventilation also removes pollutants and irritants from the room. To ventilate your home, you need to keep the doors and windows open to let the air flow in and out.
Of course, this might not be an option if you live in the city or some other area with extra pollution. If this is the case, you might have to think about the timing of the ventilation. You can still ventilate at late at night or early in the morning. Another option is to install trickle vents, which allows for natural ventilation even if the windows are closed. Air passes through a filter and removes impurities such as dust and irritants.
2. Clean the air conditioning
Another factor that affects the air quality inside your home is your air conditioning. Air conditioners work by cooling and drying the air in your home and airflow from the vents also prevents stagnation through regular movement. Air that is drawn from the outdoors is passed through filters to remove pollen, dust, and other irritants.
Something as simple as hiring an air duct cleaning service can ensure that your air conditioner works optimally. Regular cleanings keep the air fresh and clean and free of impurities. Don’t forget to clean the filters every few weeks as well, especially if you live in an area with high outdoor pollution.
3. Don’t forget to vacuum
Dust might seem innocuous, but it could also pose hidden dangers. Chemicals, dust mites, and other irritants can take the form of dust, and exacerbate allergies and other respiratory conditions. One way to safely remove dust is to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Regular vacuum cleaners cannot trap fine dust and simply transfer it from one place to another.
A proper hypoallergenic vacuum cleaner ensures that dust and irritants remain in the bag. Make sure to vacuum multiple times, especially in high-traffic areas. Other areas you might want to focus on include the carpet, walls, and furniture. Do this at least three times a week to keep your home fresh and clean.
After vacuuming, you can use a mop to clean what’s left behind. You don’t need to use a household cleaner for this stage; warm water is all you need. Make sure to use a microfiber mop or a static dust mop to remove dust more effectively. Afterward, keep the dust at bay by placing floor mats at entry doors. This ensures that outside dust isn’t tracked all over your floors.
These are just some ways to improve air quality in your home. Indoor air quality is a serious issue that requires practical solutions. We hope that these strategies will help secure your health and comfort.
