7 Tips For Improving The Air Quality In Your Home

We all want to live in a clean, healthy home environment. Unfortunately, indoor air pollution can be just as bad—and sometimes worse—than outdoor air pollution. 

Poor air quality can cause or worsen allergies, asthma, and many other more serious respiratory conditions. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve the air quality in your home.

Keep Your Home Clean

Dust, pet dander, and other pollutants can accumulate in your home and contribute to poor air quality. Regular cleaning can help to reduce these pollutants and keep your air clean. 

Vacuum your carpets and rugs regularly, dust surfaces, and wash bedding and curtains frequently. Also make sure to change the vacuum bag or filter regularly, as a full bag or filter can reduce the efficiency of your vacuum cleaner.

It’s also important to keep your home clutter-free, as messes can trap dust and other pollutants.

Use Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are an effective way to remove pollutants from the air in your home. They work by pulling air through a filter, which captures pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander. 

When choosing an air purifier, be sure to look for one with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which can remove particles as small as 0.3 microns.

If you only have one air purifier, place it in the room where you spend the most time, such as your bedroom or living room.

Maintain Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining good air quality in your home. 

Be sure to change your air filter regularly, as a dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of your system and allow pollutants to circulate in your home. 

It’s also a good idea to have your HVAC system serviced annually to ensure that it’s working properly.

Keep Humidity Levels in Check

While low humidity can contribute to dry skin and irritation, high humidity levels can contribute to mold growth, which can lead to respiratory issues. 

It is generally recommended to keep the humidity level in your home and workspaces between 30–50%.

You may need to use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and bathrooms. You can also use exhaust fans to remove moisture from the air when cooking or showering.

Avoid Strong Fragrances

Strong fragrances can irritate the respiratory system and worsen allergies and asthma. 

Whenever possible, avoid using air fresheners, scented candles, and other heavily scented products in your home. If you do use scented products, open some windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.

Avoid VOC Products

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can be found in common household products like paints, cleaners, and furniture. These chemicals can contribute to poor indoor air quality and can even be harmful to your health. 

Choose low or non-VOC products whenever possible to reduce your exposure to these chemicals.

Bring in Plants

Indoor plants can help to improve the air quality of your home by removing harmful pollutants and VOCs such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide. The plants absorb these pollutants through their leaves, stems, and roots, which are then broken down and released as oxygen. 

This oxygen is then circulated back into the air, providing a cleaner, fresher air for you to breathe.