There are many reasons for indoor air pollution in our homes. Most metro areas issue alerts when air pollution levels are high. We may be cautious about our outdoor activities to avoid poor air quality, but we should also consider that indoor environments can harbor harmful pollutants. Here are the seven most common sources of contaminated air in our homes and businesses.
The dirty truth about indoor air pollution
There are quite a few ways that your home’s interior can harbor harmful irritants. You may be surprised to find that some steps meant to improve your indoor air quality actually do more harm than good. Here are the dirty seven:
- Cooking is the most significant source of indoor air pollution. The aroma of your favorite foods is enticing, but smoke and certain gases are respiratory irritants. Consider converting to induction cookware and installing a ventilation fan that carries cooking odors outside. Additionally, opening a window while cooking can also help.
- Dirty HVAC filters, clogged with dust and allergens from infrequent changing, increase the airborne particulate matter in your house and cause your system to labor harder to operate. Change or clean filters monthly. Consider upgrading your filters to a higher MERV rating, but consult your HVAC professional to ensure your system can handle the increased airflow required by denser filters. Not all can.
- Pets bring us love and joy, along with nasal irritation from shedding hair and dander. Vacuum upholstery and floors often to keep the flying hair down.
- Mold can grow in appliances and plumbing fixtures, as well as in any place that is continually wet. Drains, washing machines, and refrigerator water dispensers are all sources. Leave the door partly open for 30 minutes after washing a load of clothes or dishes. Keep showers, tubs, and sinks clean to prevent mildew from gathering. Leave the shower door open for 30 minutes after use.
- Cleaners make surfaces shiny, but the chemicals can be respiratory irritants, especially if the label boasts of its germ-killing prowess. This usually means it contains bleach or other pungent agents to prevent pathogens. Use the cleaner sparingly or dilute it with water.
- Now for the surprising pollutants: Lighting aromatic candles or burning incense may smell heavenly, but both produce smoke. They essentially release carbon emissions into your house! Use things that burn only for special occasions to limit your exposure.
- Likewise, sprayed air fresheners, although they smell fragrant and mask odors, contain strong chemicals that can also irritate the breathing passages. It’s better to simply open windows for a while to banish odors and let fresh breezes naturally cleanse the air.
Related – Protecting Indoor Air Quality from Wildfire Smoke
