We often worry about outdoor pollution but there may be just as much indoor air pollution. During the winter months, we tend to cozy up at home with all the windows closed and the heat on. Your home may actually have bad air quality based on a few factors. The good news is there are some simple ways that you can prevent bad air quality. This bad air quality can be problematic to your family’s health. According to Health Harvard, reducing indoor allergens can help reduce respiratory problems and other issues. We’re going to explain how to improve indoor air quality in your home.
Common Air Pollutants in Your Home
Air pollutants can be anything from contaminants brought from outside by pets or as dangerous as gas leaks. Carbon monoxide is an air pollutant that can leak into your home through natural gas. Older homes may have dangerous pollutants like lead particles or asbestos, which are damaging to your lungs. Mold and mildew may be an issue in areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
Here is how to improve indoor air quality so your home is safe and promotes health:
Keep It Clean
Keeping your house clean goes a long way. When there is regular dusting, vacuuming, and sanitizing, you cut down on some causes of bad air quality. You get rid of dust and animal dander. Professional cleaners can help you out with this as they get rid of the accumulation of pet dander, mold, and dust.
When it comes to how to improve indoor air quality, you’ll want to vacuum carpets and area rugs regularly. A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is recommended. Regular clean bedding, drapes, and other fabrics that could attract allergens.
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends washing any bedding in water that is at least 130° F.
Keep your home free of clutter as this can trap and hold dust in areas you’re not even aware of.
Change Your AC Filter
Many times we completely forget to change the filter in their AC. The air-conditioning systems are constantly working. They cycle through the air and filter out common air pollutants. At a certain point, the filters are so full of pollutants themselves that they don’t work well. This causes trouble with air quality as your filters are no longer clean. It also wears down your AC system. Make sure to change your air filters regularly.
The AC isn’t the only filter you should change either. Check all filters with household appliances. Things like the vacuum cleaner, your dryer, and kitchen vents should be inspected and maintained regularly.
Check Air Ducts
Air ducts distribute the hot and cold air through your home. These ducts can end up with dust, dander, and mold inside and they’re then spitting that bad quality of air all-around your home. It’s important that you have these ducts cleaned regularly.
Control Humidity in Your Home
How to improve indoor air quality can involve preventative measures like controlling humidity in your home. Humid, moist conditions can lead to mold and mildew, which is hard on your respiratory system. It can lead to allergies and asthma for some. Depending on where you live, you may need to reduce moisture in the air with dehumidifiers.
Get Some Indoor Plants
The natural air filter is the plants. When you buy a few indoor plants, this can actually improve the air quality in your home. Not to mention, it enhances the look of your home. You can use small plants like firms or lilies or even some larger palm trees. They pull contaminants out of the air. With that said, be sure to dust and hand clean your plant leaves from time to time.
These are just some of the ways you can help to improve the air quality in your home. By following these practices, you keep your family safe and healthy from harmful allergens and bacteria.
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