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A home with fresh clean air is more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. In addition it can help to prevent asthma flare-ups, allergic reactions and other respiratory health issues. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can improve your home’s indoor air quality. Use these 6 tips to control pollutants and irritants commonly found indoors and breathe a little easier tonight!
Replace Your Air Filters
It’s important to change or clean the air filters regularly in your home. You should follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for air filter replacement for the following appliances in your home:
- Air conditioner
- Heater/furnace
- Air purifier
- Vacuum.
Use a Humidifier
When the air in your home is too dry, it can cause irritation for those with asthma or other respiratory issues. In addition, it can lead to dry or cracked skin and create annoying static shocks. Fortunately, dry air is typically one of the easiest indoor air quality issues to fix. Single-room and whole-house humidifiers add moisture to the air, which is especially helpful in the winter months when your heating system can make the air feel even drier.
Use a Dehumidifier
If your home’s air tends to be too humid, on the other hand, a dehumidifier offers a simple solution by removing excess moisture from the air. This can help to prevent mold growth, which could potentially trigger allergies or even contribute to the development of serious health issues. Ideally, your home’s humidity level should hover around 45 percent.
Have Your Ductwork Cleaned
The air you breathe in and out on a daily basis is filtered through your home’s air ducts, so it’s important to keep them as clean as possible. Over time, a buildup of contaminants can develop in the ductwork, such as dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen, bacterial growth, and smoke residue. This can trigger allergies, asthma and other respiratory problems. You shouldn’t try to clean the ducts on your own, however. Instead, hire HVAC technicians to have your ductwork professionally cleaned.
Clean and Upgrade with Green Products
Try to use eco-friendly, nontoxic cleaning supplies that don’t put out as many harmful fumes or chemicals into the air. In addition, you can use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture small irritants and allergens that other vacuums often miss. Use microfiber cloths when dusting to trap particles safely, and wash fabric items such as curtains often. Avoid using synthetic air fresheners and petroleum-based wax candles.
When it comes to upgrading your home, be sure to use low-VOC or VOC-free paints. Any finishes, adhesives, or varnishes you apply should be nontoxic. Choose furniture made with materials with a low risk of off-gassing.
Grow House Plants
Indoor plants are great for your indoor air, so try to include several throughout your home. These plants will absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen while also scrubbing the air of common indoor pollutants. Some of the recommended plants for improving indoor air quality include:
- English ivy
- Gerbera daisy
- Bamboo palm
- Peace lily
- Pot mum
- Mother-in-law’s tongue
- Chinese evergreen.
These strategies are proven to help improve your indoor air quality. Breathe easier when you’re at home by taking these steps to make the air cleaner and your home more comfortable.
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