People spend around 90% of the time indoors. So, it's no wonder the indoor air can have an impact on their health. Learn why and what residents can do to improve the air quality in the home.
Indoor Air Pollution
According to the EPA, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air
According to the EPA, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. And 3.8 million deaths are attributed to household air pollution annually, says the World Health Organization.
Unhealthy air inside a home can pose serious health risks. Children, seniors, and people with asthma and allergies are particularly vulnerable.
Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
It is important to understand the sources of indoor air pollution.
- Allergens include pet dander, pollen, mold, dust mites, cockroaches, and more. Dust mites and pet dander can be found on surfaces in the home - especially fabric furniture, carpets and rugs, window curtains, and bedding. When these surfaces are disturbed, it can send these allergens into the air. Mold can be found in or near damp or humid areas of the home: sinks, showers, toilets, and near water leaks. Mold can also be found in closets, basements, and in the soil of overwatered houseplants.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. VOCs are found in building materials such as paints, solvents, and varnishes. VOCs also come from electronic equipment, cleaning products, furniture, and many other household products.
- Cleaning products can also release VOCs and other harmful gases. Scented products like air fresheners, essential oils, and self-care products all release VOCs.
- Fuel-burning heat sources and smoke also harm indoor air. These include wood-burning stoves and kerosene heaters. Smoke can come from cooking, candles, fireplaces, or tobacco. Cooking food can also release air pollution into the home.
- Outdoor air pollution can also find its way into the home, entering through gaps and cracks, open doors and windows, and clothing. This includes pollen, wood-burning smoke, dust, ozone, and emissions from cars and factories. Indoor air pollution can result from a concentration of what is around the home – if users are near a highway user might get exhaust emissions and/or atomized tire rubber inside. Even attached garages can leak dangerous carbon monoxide gas from cars, motorcycles, or lawnmowers through doorways, vents, and cracks.
What Can Users Do to Improve IAQ?
The best way to improve indoor air quality and reduce asthma and allergy triggers in the home is to reduce the sources of allergens and irritants in the home.
Small changes can make a big difference. Here are a few tips:
- Establish regular cleaning routines to remove dust, pollen, animal dander, and mold from the home. Users may need to wear a mask.
- Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach and items with strong scents like candles. Replace traditional scented candles with battery-powered ones.
- Keep the home’s humidity levels below 50%. If the user lives in a wet climate, the user may need a dehumidifier to keep mold at bay.
- Improve airflow in the home. Leave interior doors open and run exhaust fans while cooking and in bathrooms for at least 15 to 20 minutes after showering.
- Replace carpets with solid surface flooring if possible. Otherwise, vacuum regularly, depending on how many people and pets occupy the home.
- Keep windows closed during peak pollen times or during times of high outdoor pollution.
- Maintain the HVAC system and replace the air filters every at least three months. Users should also shoot for the highest MERV rating on a filter that the HVAC system allows.
- Air sealing can improve air quality. Check that the doors, windows, and any gaps/cracks are sealed properly to keep pests, dust, and other outdoor pollutants out of the home. Using an air sealant in these gaps can keep these pollutants out.
- Use CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® products, including laundry detergents, appliances, building materials like Knauf Performance+ insulation products, and many more.
Breathe a sigh of relief
The good news? By following the above tips, users can reduce indoor air pollution and improve their overall health and well-being.
In addition, better indoor air quality can help manage chronic conditions like asthma and allergies.
