Most homeowners think about the outdoors when they hear about air pollution. But, the air inside often contains pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and dust. Poor ventilation, harmful chemicals, and high humidity affect indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are many ways to improve the air in your home, even if you’re on a budget. Here are some tips to help purify your home’s air.
Purify Your Home’s Air with Houseplants
Plants are one of the best natural ways of boosting indoor air quality. They not only help to purify the air but also enhance your home’s décor. Certain plants like lilies, dracaenas, and ferns help remove contaminants and chemicals from the air. Place them around your home to improve indoor air quality.
Use Natural Cleaning Products
When buying cleaning products, choose natural and organic options. Other products contain toxic chemicals and could spread harmful VOCs throughout your living spaces after use. Even once you’ve wiped or cleaned the area, the pollutants are already circulating throughout your home.
To avoid harmful cleaning products, make your own with natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemons, and essential oil. If you have to use commercial cleaning supplies, open windows while you clean to let fresh air indoors.
Open the Windows to Purify Your Home’s Air
Open your windows to boost circulation and remove irritants from your home’s air. You don’t have to keep them open all day. Just 30 minutes of fresh air will significantly improve indoor air quality.
On hot days, open your windows in the early morning hours or wait until after dusk. You’ll enjoy the air while also reducing pollutants in the home.
Keep the House Clean
Better indoor air quality means maintaining clean living spaces. Make it a habit to regularly clean your home to remove dust, dirt, mold, and pet dander. Dust and vacuum at least weekly, and more often if you have pets or family members with allergies.
Allergens can become trapped in the fibers of your carpet and furniture, so vacuuming is necessary. Clean the bathroom and wipe any drips and spills to prevent mold and mildew from developing. Mold growth in the home can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. Clean living spaces will improve your indoor air quality.
Use an Air Purifier
An air purifier can absorb up to 99% of the pollutants circulating in your home. The filter traps airborne irritants, making your indoor air healthier. A purification system is a worthwhile investment, especially for people with young kids or older adults at home.
Improving indoor air quality is integral to keeping a healthy home. Follow the above tips to reduce allergens and pollutants in your living spaces.
Arrow Home Inspections provides inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the Charlotte Metro Area. Contact us to request an inspection.