Air pollution is a severe health hazard. It can cause and worsen respiratory problems, allergies, asthma, and other diseases. Pollution inside the home is just as dangerous: it’s what gives your children that “sick” feeling when they’re indoors all day long; it’s what makes you sneeze every time you dust or vacuum; it’s what poisons your family pets with chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene.
But don’t despair; here are some simple steps you can take to make the indoor air cleaner and safer for everyone in your household.
Get the air in your home tested
One way to find out the air quality in your home is to have it tested. Numerous companies offer this service, and most municipalities have their environmental health departments that can test the air for free or for a nominal fee.
Once you have the test results, you can determine what, if anything, needs to be done to improve the air quality. For example, if you detect a high level of radon gas in your home, you’ll need to install a radon mitigation system.
Replace your air filters
Air filters are a vital part of any air purification system. They trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens before they can circulate through the house. They also help keep the HVAC system clean and running efficiently. Most filters should be replaced every three to six months, depending on the number of people in your home, pets you have, and anyone suffering from allergies or asthma.
In addition, some air purifiers require their own special filters. Once again, you’ll need to check your owner’s manual to determine the best replacement schedule for these filters.
Wash and dry your bedding frequently
You should change the bedding often because it can harbor food particles, dust mites, pet dander, and other contaminants. Bed bugs may also come in through the bedding.
This makes it highly important to wash and dry your linens regularly. It’s best if there is a designated day or even time of the week to do this activity so that shortcuts aren’t taken.
Every surface in your home breathes air back into the room, causing indoor air quality issues that affect allergy sufferers positively or negatively to varying degrees depending on sensitivity levels. A sheet change at least once per week for bedding and once per month for pillowcases can help control exposure to airborne particles.
Vacuum often with a HEPA filter
Vacuuming is one of the best ways to clean your floors and furniture and eliminate allergens and dust mites. It’s essential to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture the tiniest particles, which can cause respiratory problems.
It’s also important to vacuum regularly. The recommended frequency depends on the type of flooring you have and the number of people and pets in your home. For example, you should vacuum hardwood floors every week and carpets every other week.
Ensure that you empty the vacuum bag or canister to prevent dust from recirculating after each use.
Use the exhaust fan in your bathroom or kitchen
Exhaust fans are a great way to keep your home clean and pollutant-free. They draw air out of the room and send it outside, which helps to keep the indoor air clean.
When cooking, it’s important to use the exhaust fan in your kitchen, as cooking can produce harmful fumes and pollutants. The fan will help remove these fumes from the kitchen and keep them spreading throughout the house.
The exhaust fan in your bathroom should also be used whenever you shower or bathe, as the humid air can cause mold and mildew to grow. The fan will help remove the moisture from the air and keep it from spreading throughout the house. It will also help keep the bathroom dry.
Keep your pets groomed
Pet dander is one of the most common allergens. It’s important to keep your pets groomed and free of dander to reduce the number of allergens in your home.
Dander is released when a pet scratches or licks itself. It can stick to your clothing and come into your home on your shoes. Grooming pets frequently will help control the amount of dander in the air and keep it from spreading throughout the house.
Install a quality air purifier
One convenient way to purify your home’s air is by investing in an air purifier. Typically, these devices filter the air and remove dust, pet dander, and other contaminants. Air purifiers can also help you save money on your heating and cooling bills by removing excess humidity from the air.
Air purifiers also help prevent respiratory problems like asthma attacks and allergic reactions. There are different types of air purifiers, so choose the one that’s right for your home. For example, you might choose a purifier with a HEPA filter if you have allergies or asthma.
Breathe Easily and Safely
Air quality is paramount, and it impacts health in many ways. Remember: when all of these strategies are combined, they’ll keep your family safe from airborne viruses while also reducing allergens that can trigger respiratory problems like asthma attacks or allergic reactions.
You can breathe a little easier knowing you and your family are breathing clean air.
