Breathing Easier at Home
Did you know that the air inside your home could be even more polluted than the air outside? It’s true! As much as 90% of our time is spent indoors, so the quality of the air we breathe at home is critical for our health and well-being.
I’ll admit, when I first learned this, I was pretty surprised. I mean, I always thought my home was this safe, cozy little haven away from the smog and fumes of the city. Boy, was I in for a rude awakening! Turns out, everything from our furniture to our cleaning products can contribute to poor indoor air quality. And for people with respiratory issues or allergies, this can spell big trouble.
But don’t panic! I’m here to share some simple, practical tips to help you improve the air quality in your home. With a little know-how and elbow grease, you can create a healthier, more breathable environment for you and your family. Ready to take a deep breath of fresh air? Let’s do this!
Identify Indoor Air Pollutants
The first step to improving your indoor air quality is understanding what’s lurking in your home. Some of the most common indoor air pollutants include:
- Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens
- Mold and mildew
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products, furniture, paint, and other household items
- Carbon monoxide from gas appliances
- Radon, a naturally-occurring radioactive gas
- Second-hand smoke
These invisible culprits can trigger a host of unpleasant symptoms, from respiratory irritation to headaches and fatigue. And for folks with asthma or other chronic lung conditions, poor indoor air quality can be downright dangerous.
Healthline has a great overview of the most common indoor air pollutants and their potential health effects. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the usual suspects, so you can keep an eye out for potential trouble in your own home.
Banish Dust and Dander
One of the easiest ways to improve your indoor air quality is to keep your home spick and span. Dust, pet hair, and other allergens can quickly accumulate, especially during the colder months when windows stay shut.
I make it a point to vacuum my carpets and rugs at least twice a week, using a machine with a HEPA filter to really capture those tiny particles. And I try to do a deep clean of my bedding, curtains, and upholstered furniture on a regular basis – the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends washing in water that’s at least 130°F to kill dust mites.
Cutting down on clutter can also make a big difference, since extra knickknacks and doodads just give those pesky allergens more places to hide. I’m a big fan of the minimalist look anyway, so it’s a win-win!
And speaking of pets, as much as I adore my furry friends, I’ve learned to keep them out of the bedroom. Fur and dander can really wreak havoc on air quality, so I try to limit their access to the rooms I spend the most time in. A quick weekly wipe-down of their favorite lounging spots helps too.
Ventilate, Ventilate, Ventilate
Another crucial element of good indoor air quality? Airflow. When windows and doors stay shut for extended periods, stale, polluted air can quickly build up. That’s why I make it a point to open things up whenever I can.
Even in the colder months, I’ll crack a window for at least 10-15 minutes a day to let in some fresh outdoor air. And I always run the exhaust fans in my kitchen and bathrooms when I’m cooking or showering, to pull out any fumes or moisture buildup.
The American Lung Association suggests using window or attic fans to boost ventilation when the weather permits. And if you have a forced-air heating or cooling system, be sure to change the filters regularly – that way, you’re not just recirculating all those nasty particles.
Of course, you’ll want to be mindful of outdoor air quality too. On days when pollution levels are high, it’s best to keep windows closed and crank up the air conditioning instead. A little balance is key!
Rethink Your Furnishings
Believe it or not, some of the furniture and decor in your home could be contributing to poor indoor air quality. Things like pressed wood products, certain carpets and rugs, and even some houseplants can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other irritants over time.
I try to opt for solid wood furniture and natural fiber rugs whenever possible. And I’m super selective about the houseplants I bring into my home – the EPA notes that while some plants may help filter the air, others can actually promote mold growth.
If you do have older furniture or carpeting that’s off-gassing VOCs, your best bet is to open the windows and run an air purifier to help clear the air. Or, you could consider gradually replacing those problematic items with more eco-friendly alternatives.
Invest in Air-Cleaning Tech
When it comes to improving indoor air quality, technology can be your best friend. Air purifiers, in particular, are a game-changer for trapping airborne pollutants and allergens.
I did a ton of research to find the right one for my home, and ultimately landed on a HEPA filter model. Healthline explains that HEPA filters can remove up to 99.97% of harmful particles from the air – that’s pretty impressive!
I placed my air purifier in the main living area, where I spend the most time. And let me tell you, the difference in how I feel is night and day. No more itchy eyes, stuffy nose, or that general “blah” feeling. It’s like I can breathe again!
Dehumidifiers can also be really helpful, especially in damp areas like the basement or bathroom. By keeping moisture levels in check, you can prevent mold and mildew from taking over. Just be sure to empty the tank regularly and clean the unit per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Maintain Your HVAC System
Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a crucial role in indoor air quality. Those filters and ducts are responsible for circulating air throughout your living space, so you want to make sure they’re in tip-top shape.
I’ve gotten into the habit of changing my HVAC filters every few months. It’s a quick, inexpensive task, but it makes a world of difference in trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants. And don’t forget to have your ducts professionally cleaned every few years – that way, you can rest assured you’re not just blowing dirty air from room to room.
If your heating system uses gas or wood, it’s also a good idea to have a licensed technician perform regular maintenance checks. Things like properly adjusting the burners and checking for carbon monoxide leaks can go a long way in keeping your indoor air safe and healthy.
Bring Nature Indoors
Alright, I’ve covered a lot of the practical, nitty-gritty steps for improving indoor air quality. But did you know that something as simple as adding a few houseplants can also make a big difference?
That’s right – nature’s little air purifiers! The EPA notes that while the research on houseplants and air filtration is still a bit mixed, certain species are known to be particularly effective at removing VOCs, carbon dioxide, and other pollutants from the air.
Some of the top air-cleaning plants include English ivy, peace lilies, and Chinese evergreens. I’ve got a few of these beauties scattered around my home, and I love how they not only freshen up the air, but also add a nice touch of greenery to my decor.
Of course, you’ll want to be mindful of any potential allergies or sensitivities your family members might have. And don’t overwater those plants – damp soil can actually promote mold growth, which defeats the whole purpose. But with a little care and attention, these natural air purifiers can be a fantastic addition to any home.
Enjoy Cleaner, Healthier Air
There you have it – a whole arsenal of tips and tricks to help improve the air quality in your home. From deep cleaning to smart tech upgrades, there are so many ways to create a healthier, more breathable environment for you and your loved ones.
And let me tell you, the difference it can make is truly remarkable. No more stuffy noses, headaches, or that general feeling of “blah.” Just clean, crisp air that leaves you energized and ready to take on the day.
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to ABC Home to start planning your indoor air quality upgrades. Your lungs (and the rest of your body!) will thank you.
