There are a variety of ways to improve the quality of air we breathe in our homes. This article outlines several easy solutions that can be implemented to ensure that we are only breathing in the best.
Overview
Did you know that the air we breathe indoors can be up to 5x more polluted than outdoors? Now that many families are spending more time indoors, whether for homeschooling or working remotely, it’s vital to consider the cleanliness of the air at home.
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is the quality of air within a home or building and how it affects those who are breathing it. It’s important to note that the cleanliness of your home is not synonymous with its air quality. Dust, dirt, and other pollutants are too small for the naked eye, yet linger in the air and pose a threat to your health after long-term exposure.
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Thankfully, there are quick and simple upgrades you can do in your home to help clean the air in your home and reduce exposure to harmful airborne particles. Below are five ways to improve your overall IAQ.
Unfortunately, many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals, including formaldehyde and ammonia, that are dangerous to inhale. Spraying those types of cleaners around the house increases the levels of toxicity in the area.
A safer alternative is to purchase non-toxic cleaners, such as those that are plant-based and bleach-free. To promote a green and sustainable home, another option is to create homemade cleaning products. Common ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar are natural disinfectants and deodorizers that are safe to use around pets and children.
Make sure to keep a cleaning schedule and track of regular maintenance for your home appliances. Doing so helps you stay on top of mold, bacteria, and dust accumulation, all of which contribute to a poor IAQ. A few tasks to perform annually include:
The strong filters in air purifiers remove more particles and odor in the air than furnace filters, helping provide cleaner, fresher air in your home. You can find air purifiers in a wide range of sizes and prices from your local department store.
It’s essential to ensure rooms throughout your home are properly ventilated. For example, having bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans can reduce the amount of gasses and moisture in the air caused by cooking and showering, which would otherwise lead to air pollutants and mold growth.
If you don’t have exhaust fans installed, an alternative is frequent usage of ceiling fans as well as opening windows in the room to assist in air circulation.
While there are many benefits of having greenery in your home, such as increasing productivity and creating a relaxing environment, plants can also improve your air quality. Some studies show that certain plant species can help remove VOCs, gasses and chemicals in the air, from indoor areas.
If you’re looking for low-maintenance indoor plants great for cleansing the air, consider the Spider Plant, Boston Fern, and English Ivy. The latter is also great for reducing airborne mold.
For more tips or guidance on the best houseplants for your space, contact a Greenwall pro today.
Ashley Cottrell is a content creator, vegetarian, and strong advocate of wellness. When she's not writing, you'll find her jogging the beach or hiking through the rainforests.
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