The air quality inside your home can impact your family’s physical and mental health. The EPA ranks indoor air pollution among the top five environmental health risks. It’s helpful to take measures to purify the air in your home. Here are a few tips to improve indoor air quality.
How to Boost Air Quality Indoors
Improve Air Quality at Home: Open the Windows
One of the simplest ways to improve indoor air quality is also one of the most effective: open your windows. The airflow will circulate fresh air throughout your home while also ventilating musty areas. Good circulation also reduces humidity. For the best results, open windows on opposite sides of a room to create cross-ventilation. And if you live in an urban neighborhood or near a busy road, wait until a slower time of day to open the windows.
Dust and Vacuum Regularly
Dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in dusty environments. They are also one of the most common triggers of asthma and allergies. To keep dust mites at bay, clean the house weekly, dusting with a damp cloth (which will help prevent particles from becoming airborne). If you or a family member suffers from allergies, it may be necessary to dust more frequently.
When vacuuming, use a machine with a HEPA filter, which will trap 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, including dust, pollen, mold, dust mites, and bacteria.
Avoid Volatile Organic Compounds to Improve Air Quality at Home
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted by chemicals in household products like cleaning supplies, paint, air fresheners, and personal care items. These gases can have short- and long-term health effects, including headaches, dizziness, and cancer. To avoid VOCs, look for products labeled “low-VOC” or “no-VOC.”
If you use products with harsh chemicals, open the windows and turn on a fan to help circulate VOCs out of your home’s air.
You can also choose natural supplies to clean your home, like vinegar and baking soda, instead of commercially made cleaning products. The internet is an excellent resource for ideas and recipes to clean countertops, windows, floors, and bathrooms with products you make at home.
By taking these simple steps to improve indoor air quality, you create a healthier environment for your family. Keeping a clean home reduces toxins and irritants. As a bonus, fresh air can help you feel more relaxed and refreshed.
Horizon Inspection Services provides inspections for customers in Arizona. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request our services.