Having clean indoor air is crucial since we spend about 93% of our time indoors. Indoor air can contain harmful substances like pet dander, carbon dioxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This is why using an air filter and keeping houseplants are popular choices.
Indoor air quality varies based on several factors. Living close to busy cities, highways, or farms that use chemicals can increase pollution risks. High temperatures and humidity levels can worsen the problem, according to EPA scientists.
A significant number of buildings, around 30-50%, are damp enough to foster mold and bacteria growth, says the EPA. These can lead to health issues like asthma and infections. Surprisingly, indoor air can be more polluted than air in large industrial cities.
While being outdoors is ideal, it’s important to ensure clean air indoors when staying inside. Pollution is linked to many health problems, but we can control much of the indoor air quality. Common indoor pollutants include dust, mold, and pet dander. Dust mites, for instance, thrive in humid spots like mattresses and carpets and can cause health issues like asthma and eczema.
Start by vacuuming and dusting regularly. Many experts suggest using HEPA filters, though they’re not always necessary. Carpets, which can hide pollutants and allergens, should be minimized. If you have carpets, deep cleaning them occasionally helps maintain better air quality.
It’s important, though, not to go overboard with cleanliness. Homes have a natural microbiome, and kids exposed to pets and farm animals often have less asthma risk. I prefer simple cleaning routines and use Homebiotic, a kind of house probiotic.
Pets, while beloved family members, can add to indoor pollution. Regular grooming and bathing, especially for pets with outdoor access, can reduce dander and hair.
Conventional air fresheners mask odors with toxins, while natural alternatives neutralize them. If there’s a persistent bad smell, like old trash, removal is key. Natural air fresheners and essential oils not only combat odors but also decrease microbes and dust mites.
Candles can make a home cozy, but not all are equal. Paraffin and soy wax candles add to air pollution, but beeswax candles do the opposite. Burning beeswax produces negative ions that bond with positive ions from pollution, cleaning the air and leaving a pleasant scent. They’re particularly helpful for asthmatics and allergy sufferers and also burn longer than paraffin candles.
Proper air conditioning and heating systems are essential for clean air. In polluted areas, AC systems filter incoming air. If outdoor pollution isn’t a concern, opening windows helps ventilate the home. Remember to regularly change HVAC filters and consider adding essential oils like lemon or clove for extra purification.
Mold, which thrives in moisture, can lead to health woes like fatigue and immune suppression. Keeping humidity below 50% and fixing leaks is vital. Moldy items should be removed, and porous materials replaced if affected.
Some household materials emit VOCs, contributing to pollution and causing health issues like headaches and cancer. Opt for low-VOC furnishings and natural cleaners to reduce exposure.
Cooking can also be a pollution source. Gas stoves, in particular, can emit high levels of nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, exceeding safety limits. Ensure gas stoves are well-maintained, use exhaust fans, and choose cooking oils with high smoke points to minimize fumes.
Houseplants have long been seen as natural air purifiers. While their effectiveness in real-world settings is still under review, some research suggests that plant soil microbes play a bigger role in purifying the air.
Salt lamps, made from Himalayan salt, also release negative ions, though in lesser amounts. They’re a beautiful light source that doesn’t disrupt sleep hormones like some lights do. We use a salt lamp at home, as its soothing light helps us relax.
Bamboo charcoal is a fantastic natural air cleaner. It adsorbs toxins and smells, making it great for household air purification. We use bamboo charcoal bags around the house for this purpose.
Finally, while there are many DIY methods for cleaner air, investing in an air filter is always beneficial. Our family uses a combination of solutions, including air filters for optimum results.
For personal advice, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. What techniques have you tried for fresher indoor air? Let us know your thoughts!
