Key takeaways
With so much going on in our daily lives, it can be easy to overlook the air quality inside of our homes. But the fact is, indoor air quality can significantly impact our health and well-being. Here, you’ll learn:
What causes poor air quality.
Things you can do to improve air quality in your home.
How to make lasting changes to improve the quality of the air in your family’s home.
What causes poor air quality?
From allergens to pollutants, the air in our homes can harbor various unseen threats. Indoor pollutants like cooking, cleaning products, and furniture materials can also contribute to this.
The good news is that improving the air quality in your home doesn’t have to be a complicated or expensive process. Here, we’ll show you 12 simple and effective ways to enhance the air you breathe, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family.
12 simple ways to improve indoor air quality in your home
Making the air in your home better to breathe doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. From changing AC filters and using low-VOC products to adding indoor plants and ensuring proper ventilation, each of the following steps will contribute to better indoor air quality. Moreover, by prioritizing these actions, you can help prevent respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems, ensuring that you and your family can breathe easier and stay healthy.
1. Change your air conditioner (AC) filters—often
The filters in your AC unit are meant to trap dust and pollutants, preventing particles from circulating in the air and being breathed into your lungs. In fact, some of the best air filters can catch up to 99% of indoor air pollutants! However, for filters to work as effectively as possible, they should be changed regularly to maintain good air quality inside your home.
2. Inspect and clean air ducts
Regularly cleaning your air ducts prevents the buildup of dust and mold. In addition, scheduling an annual maintenance of your air ducts ensures that the system is working properly, circulating clean air throughout your home. Most experts advise having your ducts cleaned at least every two to five years to eliminate a possible heavy buildup of contaminants. However, if you see any visible signs of dust, mold, or dirt accumulation, get your ducts cleaned sooner rather than later.
3. Control humidity levels
Humidity can be a persistent issue in warmer climates, but it can impact any home lacking proper ventilation. The problem is that excess moisture in the air fosters mold and mildew growth, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Dehumidifiers help to lower indoor humidity levels, enhancing comfort but also improving air quality. Typically, most dehumidifiers will keep indoor moisture levels between 30-50%.
4. Use exhaust fans
Running kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans are an easy way to remove moisture and pollutants. Kitchen exhaust fans help remove fumes from cooking and cleaning products, while bathroom ventilation fans pull moisture from the air and expel it outside. And while extractor fans can be noisy, using them more often can significantly improve your home’s air quality.
5. Avoid smoking indoors
Keeping your home smoke-free helps to eliminate introducing harmful chemicals into the air. Secondhand smoke not only creates unpleasant odors but also significantly increases the risk of developing asthma, cancer, and other health issues. Insist that house guests who must smoke to step outside.
6. Use low-VOC products
Some paints on the market can cause dizziness or faintness due to their fumes. To minimize your exposure to harmful chemicals, choose paints labeled zero or low VOC. Additionally, opt for cleaning supplies and furniture that are labeled zero VOC.
7. Open windows for ventilation
When outdoor air quality and weather permits, open doors and windows to let the fresh air in and the stale air out. Always run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans when cooking and showering.
8. Clean carpets and rugs regularly
Allergens can build up on your floors, particularly if you have rugs or carpeting. To reduce harmful pollutants, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and regularly mop hardwood, tile, and vinyl floors. This will help remove dust and allergens, keeping your home cleaner and healthier.
9. Add indoor plants
Did you know that certain houseplants act as natural air purifiers by absorbing pollutants? Depending on your space, you will want to either select plants that thrive in sunlight or those that require minimal light and maintenance.
10. Test for radon and install CO alarms
Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that can increase the risk of lung cancer. It can be found in nearly all soil types and can seep into your home through the foundation. Regularly testing your home for radon—regardless of age—can help detect these dangerous gases. Installing carbon monoxide alarms can help to alert you to a possible radon safety issue.
Use an air purifier
Air purifiers with HEPA filters help remove allergens and pollutants from the air in your home. Use your air purifier in high-traffic or allergy-prone areas, like bedrooms and living rooms.
Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals
Traditional cleaning products can release toxic fumes into the air. Natural cleaning solutions (e.g., vinegar, baking soda, or essential oils) can minimize your exposure. Whenever possible, lean toward using them.
Improve your home’s air quality today
