Has the air in your home ever felt stale? Damp? Dusty? Modern houses are becoming more energy-efficient, which is excellent for the environment but less ideal for the air we’re breathing in our homes. Tightly sealed windows and doors mean less air is filtered in and out, which means managing air quality is more important than ever. Luckily, there are easy steps you can take to improve the quality of air in your home and maintain that new standard. Here are eight easy ways you can take control of your home’s air quality:
1. 1. Get an Air Purifier
Here’s our first two-for-one recommendation. A high-quality air purifier can filter and circulate clean air indoors and reduce allergens and pollutants. You’ll be especially thankful for your air purifier during high-pollen days in the spring and summer.
2. 2. Invest in a High-Quality Vacuum
Spend the money to get a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter that can suction up and hold dust, mites, and allergens. And be sure to clean that filter often, so you’re getting the most out of it.
3. 3. Throw Open Your Windows
This sounds like an easy one, but people don’t always realize how important it is to let in fresh air by opening all your windows. Be sure to open windows not just to bring in new air but also to keep your house from taking on odors when you’re cooking. Of course, don’t go for this option if it’s an especially high pollen count day or if there are natural issues causing pollutants or dust in your area.
4. 4. Regularly Clean Your Vents and Ducts
It’s time to call in the professionals and invest in a cleaning every now and again. You might be surprised how much dust, mildew, and other junk accumulates in your vents over the years – and how badly that affects your air quality.
5. 5. Don’t Neglect Your Dryer Vents
This one isn’t just a hazard to your air quality. You should thoroughly clean your dryer vents at least once a year to remove lint, hair, dust, and whatever else might accumulate in there. By keeping this vent clear, you’re also minimizing fire risk, so don’t skip this one.
6. 6. Avoid VOC Products
Hairspray, household paint, synthetic pillow stuffing, cleansers, and wrinkle-free sheets can contain volatile organic compounds or VOCs. These compounds can irritate your sinuses and make it difficult to breathe, so you should try to stick with products with low VOCs or none at all. Personal care products can sometimes contain VOCs, so check labels often to make sure you’re avoiding them.
7. 7. Check for Water and Keep Humidity Low
Water leaks and humid air can cause mold and mildew to form, which are top home air pollutants. Regularly check for water damage and fix any leaks you find. Additionally, use dehumidifiers in places like crawl spaces and basements to keep humidity low.
8. 8. Bring Some Green into the House
Did you know some plants can act as air purifiers? In addition to giving off oxygen, many household plants like bamboo palms, spider plants, and Boston ferns actually remove chemicals from the air. Add plants in your house to bring vibrant life – and better air quality – to every room.
Managing the air quality in your home doesn’t have to be a full-time job – or cost a ton of money. Installing air purifiers, investing in a high-quality vacuum, and taking care to bring non-toxic products into your home will go a long way in making sure your family is staying healthy and breathing clean air.
