Respiratory health plays a crucial role in overall health. Poor indoor air quality can have a detrimental effect on our health and well-being, with respiratory problems, allergies and fatigue all commonly arising. To create a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment for you and your family, we lend our top tips on how to improve the quality of the air you breathe:
Frequent household cleaning is essential for maintaining good air quality indoors. To remove allergens such as dust build-up and pet fur, regularly vacuum carpets and rugs, as well as harder surfaces. Another useful method to capture dust particles is using a wet cloth to wipe surfaces, instead of just dispersing them into the air with a dry cloth. Also, regularly wash bedding in hot water, frequently groom your pets, and fix any leaks or water damage to prevent mold growing.
Indoor air pollutants can also be reduced by adequate ventilation. Fling open your doors and windows (When the UK weather permits!) to allow fresh air to circulate through your household.
For enhanced ventilation, you could also try using an exhaust fan in rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms to draw out moisture and pollutants from cooking or showering.
Consider investing in an air purifier to remove airborne contaminants such as pollen, dust, mold spores and pet dander. When investing, look for a model with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate absorbing) filter for maximum effectiveness. Purifiers are best placed in frequently used areas such as living rooms and bedrooms.
Regularly burning scented candles or incense, using harsh cleaning products and smoking indoors are all major culprits of indoor air pollution. To minimise your exposure to chemicals, opt for natural cleaning products, fragrance free candles and head outside if you wish to smoke.
Many of the products we find around our homes, such as air fresheners, scented candles and perfumes, possess synthetic fragrances that can release harmful compounds into the air. Instead, choose essential oils for a naturally sourced, pleasant fragrance. Natural alternatives are always best to avoid harmful compounds.
Regular cleaning and replacement of the air filters in your home’s HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system can avoid clogged filters from restricting air flow and recirculating pollutants. Always check the manufacturer’s advice on how often to replace their filters.
For another natural and inexpensive method for improving the air quality in your home, consider introducing houseplants. Certain houseplants are known to absorb pollutants in the air while also releasing oxygen.
An experiment by the University of Birmingham found that common houseplants can reduce nitrogen dioxide, a common pollutant, by as much as 20 per cent.
Some houseplants we would recommend for boosting air quality are spider plants, snake plants, chrysanthemum and peace lilies. While improving the quality of your air, these plants will also give an organic enhancement to your home’s aesthetic.
As mentioned earlier, respiratory health relates closely to our overall health – so give our methods for improving air quality a go to give your well-being a boost. Regular cleaning routines are the simplest way to start, but today there are a whole host of cost-effective methods for cleaner air indoors such as air purifiers and houseplants.
If you have any questions or need some advice regarding indoor air quality, contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today.
