Highway traffic. Swirling industrial smokestacks. These are only a few images that spring to mind when we think about air pollution. However, what about indoor air pollution? Do you ever stop to think about how safe the air is inside your house? The sad state of reality is; poor indoor air quality can be just as bad – or worse – than outdoors. Statistics show that the average human being spends 86 percent of their life indoors. This figure may have increased after 2020, now that many of us are working indoors. However, these figures shouldn’t worry you. With a few tweaks and some simple tricks, you can take steps to refine your indoor air quality. Please continue reading to find out how.
- Go for an Air Purifier
If you have issues with indoor allergens and cannot control the issue’s source, consider investing in an air purifier. These devices can be installed in the commonly used areas of your house. Based on this website, these purifiers can help eliminate such irritants that might trigger your symptoms. Even though it’s challenging to eliminate these allergens, you can cut down on them to lower the issue. Additionally, consider investing in a dehumidifier. It’s the best addition to your collection of air cleaning equipment and can be kept in areas such as your basement. It curbs the growth of mold and ensures such areas are well-ventilated.
- Ventilate
Good airflow is essential for improved indoor air quality. Having the right airflow through your house will remove dump air and revitalize the interior air. The easiest option is to open the windows and doors of your house to refresh the air quality. However, if you live in a highly-populated area, the air outside has plenty of toxic compounds. Pick the time of the day wisely when you want to open your doors and windows. Early mornings are the best – and especially during weekends – since there are low levels of traffic. You can also consider investing in an air purifier, as we have mentioned in step 1 above.
- Remember to Dust
Top-quality vacuum cleaners are costly, but they’re a powerful agent against pollen, dust, and other non-visible air pollutants. If left unchecked, these pollutants can quickly build up and affect your respiratory system. Ensure you vacuum as regularly as possible. Pay keen attention to areas underneath the beds and sofas. Additionally, batter rugs, cushions, and throws against walls to eliminate how much dust they’re holding. Finally, remember to switch your bedding weekly and wash them at high degrees to kill germs and bacteria. Keep your surfaces clutter-free for regular dusting, and use a damp cloth to curb those small particles.
- Regular Cleaning Intervals
This comes as a no-brainer, especially in current times. Ensure you clean your residence daily to keep it germ-free. In some cases – depending on your activities – you’ll need to clean some surfaces more often. To reduce toxicity, and better yet, protect yourself against Covid-19, invest in safe and efficient cleaning products for thorough cleaning. You can also try making some DIY cleaning products for home cleaning. YouTube provides several videos of how you can go about this. Whichever cleaning regimen you use, ensure you exercise caution and never consume cleaning products.
- Humidity Control in your Residence
The hot months bring extreme humidity levels to the outside. Of course, this will raise the humidity levels in your house. Such high humidity levels are good for creating a damp environment. Such conditions favor the growth of mold, which can be a key respiratory irritant. As we mentioned above, use dehumidifiers to control humidity levels in your home. Even though a dehumidifier is a cheap option, these units tend to be noisy. You will also need to empty their catch basis frequently. Instead, invest in a whole-home dehumidifier fitted in your HVAC system. This works in the background to ensure the humidity level in your home is controlled.
- Invest in Cooking Vents
The kitchen is perhaps the heart of every home. However, do you know it’s a major source of indoor air pollution? If you’re cooking using a gas stove, it can release high levels of pollutants. Even the cleaner electric models will still release smoke when you cook on them. Remember to switch on your kitchen vents when cooking. You can also open your kitchen windows to help filter out the air.
Keeping your indoor air pure and fresh requires persistence and preventative maintenance. With the tips above, you’re well on your way to improving air quality in your residence. Finally, remember to bring in some plants to your interiors. Some plants have been shown to possess sensational air purifying qualities. Over to you!
