Many people think that air pollution is something that happens outside our home; however, indoor pollutants are just as common and dangerous as those pollutants found outside your home. Learn about some of the more commonly found indoor pollutants and the steps you can take to reduce or eliminate these harmful substances to increase the quality of your home’s indoor air.
Moisture In Your Bathroom
Often the dampest area of a home, it is important to ventilate a bathroom during use and dry damp surfaces. Humidity can cause moisture problems, which will lead to mold growth. Mold can cause allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory ailments. Installing and using a ventilation fan will help to control moisture and inhibit mold growth.
Dust-Prone Bedrooms
A bedroom often contains materials that collect dust. Dust mites can trigger allergy and asthma attacks. They are on carpets, upholstered furniture, stuffed toys, and bedding. Remove dust from hard surfaces with a damp cloth and vacuum carpet and fabric-covered furniture and items regularly. Wash bedding once per week in hot water and use allergen-proof mattress and pillow zipped covers.
Living Room Pollutants
A living room is usually a well-used area of a home and may harbor indoor pollutants. It is important to ventilate properly, keep secondhand smoke outside of the house, and vacuum/mop and dust regularly. Consider also having your furniture and any upholstery cleaned at least twice a year, as dust and other pollutants can settle in these areas.
Kitchen Chemicals
A kitchen has appliances that may leak gases, and a kitchen often contains chemicals for cleaning or removing pests. It is important to properly maintain and ventilate appliances, and safely store chemicals. When you can, use fragrance-free, mild cleaners that don’t include artificial fragrances.
Basement Dehumidification
A basement is a source of air leaks and moisture and often contains various chemicals. It is important to ventilate, seal cracks, and properly store all chemicals. Because basements can be damp, install a properly sized dehumidifier to help keep your basement at an appropriate humidity level and reduce the potential for mold.
Keeping your indoor air clean and healthy for your family is an important goal. Check out our air quality products for information about our clean air solutions!
To find out how improving your indoor air quality could change your life, or to schedule a free in-home consultation, contact us today.
