Air pollution is common in big cities with industry and traffic jams. Most homeowners don’t consider air pollution to be a problem indoors. The air quality inside your home has a significant impact on your family’s health, so take steps to improve indoor air quality. Here are some of the best ways to breathe easier inside.
Why is Improving Indoor Air Quality Important?
Most adults spend the majority of their lives indoors, between sitting at a desk in the office or sleeping in bed at home. Additionally, homes are more energy-efficient than ever. While tightly-sealed homes have lower energy bills, they also trap allergens and pollutants inside. Poor air quality could lead to a dry throat, shortness of breath, asthma-like symptoms, and respiratory problems.
Avoid VOCs
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in textiles, fabrics, paints, and some furniture. These products will off-gas in your home, emitting chemicals and odors that irritate your lungs. The off-gassing period could last as long as a few months. Purchasing items that don’t contain VOCs will give your home better air quality.
Clean to Improve Indoor Air Quality
A high-quality vacuum with a HEPA filter is a helpful tool to remove dust and other pollutants from surfaces around the house. Dust all hard surfaces in your house regularly and vacuum as often as possible. Pay special attention to carpeting and rugs in high-traffic areas, like family rooms and the area where you enter the home.
Use an Air Purifier
Pollen and dust particles are often too small to see, so you might not realize that you have an air quality problem. A HEPA air purifier improves indoor air by removing 99% or more of indoor allergens and pollutants. If you don’t want to use yours year-round, they are especially beneficial during peak allergy season.
Only Smoke Outside to Improve Indoor Air Quality
If you or someone in the home smokes, create an area outdoors for smoking. Cigarette smoke is detrimental to the air that you breathe, and even second-hand smoke is a cause of lung cancer. Burning anything inside the house, including candles, incense, and cigars, will release particles that you breathe in. To improve air quality, don’t burn materials indoors.
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