5 Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is extremely important to our health. Many of us don’t even realize how much a home can cause allergies etc. Even cause us to sleep badly. We combat that by using either all natural cleaners or, almost exclusively just a combination of white vinegar and water for almost all of our cleaning needs. We also make our own dishwasher and laundry detergents which is huge for me as I have very sensitive skin. Plants also help keep the air in our home clean.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

Many people are unaware that the air inside their homes and businesses can be more polluted than the air outside. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Several factors contribute to poor indoor air quality, including dust, mold, pet dander, and cleaning chemicals. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that you can take to improve the air quality in your home or office.

Avoid Using Harsh Cleaners

When cleaning our homes, we often reach for the most potent products available, thinking they will do a better job getting rid of dirt and grime. However, using harsh chemicals can contribute to poor indoor air quality. These chemicals can off-gas into the air, polluting the air we breathe and exposing us to harmful toxins. Additionally, many conventional cleaners contain volatile organic compounds, which have been linked to various health problems, including respiratory tract irritation, headaches, and dizziness.

Fortunately, there are plenty of safe and effective alternatives to harsh cleaners. You can use microfiber cloths and plain old vinegar to clean surfaces without dangerous chemicals. For more challenging jobs, there are now several natural cleaners on the market made from ingredients like bamboo charcoal and essential oils.

Keep Your Air Conditioner Clean

A well-functioning air conditioner can improve air quality by removing pollutants and allergens from the air. However, air conditioners can also be a source of pollution if they are not properly maintained. A dirty air conditioner can circulate mold, dust, and other allergens throughout the home, aggravating respiratory conditions such as asthma.

To ensure good indoor air quality, it is essential to have regular air conditioner service. A professional technician will clean the coils and other parts of the unit, removing any build-up of dust and debris. This simple step can make a big difference in the air quality of your home, and it may even help you breathe a little easier.

Indoor Plants

One way to improve indoor air quality is to add plants to your home. Plants help filter out harmful toxins and pollutants and increase humidity levels, which can be beneficial for people with respiratory problems. In addition, plants help to purify the air by releasing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide.

Clean Regularly

One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is to clean regularly. Dust, pollen, and other allergens can build up over time, causing problems for people with allergies or asthma. Vacuuming and dusting regularly can help reduce the number of allergens in the air and create a healthier environment for everyone in your home.

Ventilate Your Home

Ventilation helps remove stale, polluted air from your home and replaces it with fresh, outside air. This can help reduce dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants. In addition, ventilation helps to control moisture levels, which can prevent the growth of mold and mildew. While opening a window is the simplest way to ventilate your home, a fan or mechanical ventilation system can be even more effective. 

Indoor air quality is of utmost importance as it can have profound health implications. While we can’t always control the quality of air outside, we can do a few things to ensure the air inside our homes is as clean and healthy as possible. By following these tips for better indoor air quality, you and your family can breathe easier knowing that you’re taking the necessary steps to improve your home environment.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)