When we think of air pollution, we usually think of the outdoor air in big cities. Air quality can also be low indoors because pollutants get trapped in well-sealed buildings. Common indoor air contaminants include dust, chemicals, mold, and bacteria. Poor air quality affects everyone, especially children, the elderly, and people already suffering from asthma and allergies. Here are 5 ways to improve indoor air quality in the home.
Improve Indoor Air Quality by Adding Houseplants
According to a study by NASA, some plants filter pollutants from the air. Houseplants produce oxygen and act as natural air purifiers. Decorate with plants like English ivy, spider plants, and aloe vera to improve air quality indoors.
Reduce Chemicals in the Home
Take a look at the products you use to clean the house. Many chemical cleaning products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These chemicals can cause headaches, allergies, and other health problems.
VOCs are also released from some furniture, paints, and building materials. Purchase natural cleaning products or make your own. Choose materials with low or no VOCs when remodeling. Allow adequate ventilation when using aerosol products like hair spray.
Ban Smoking Indoors
Even second-hand cigarette smoke is unhealthy. Exposure to chemicals in cigarettes increases the risk of developing lung cancer and other respiratory conditions. Only allow smoking outdoors.
Reduce Irritants in Your Home
Keep the house clean to remove indoor contaminants. Dust your home at least weekly and vacuum carpets and rugs using a HEPA filter. Regularly launder bedding and draperies. Carpets trap pet dander, mold, dust, and other allergens. Replace carpeting with hard floors when making home improvements.
Increase Ventilation to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Improve air quality indoors by allowing fresh air into the home. Open windows to increase circulation and remove stagnant air, and use ventilation fans in the kitchen and bathroom to pull humidity and odors out of the house.
GreenTech Home Inspections provides home inspections to the Greater Las Vegas area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.