Most of us aren’t conditioned to think of our homes as a threat to our health. Yet, many of the substances that go unnoticed, from the products we use to clean to the carpet fibers we walk on, contribute to allergies and an array of other health problems. In many cases, indoor air quality is generally more polluted than the air we breathe when we go outside. Many of the products we rely on to freshen the air in our homes contribute directly to poor health. It’s a particularly dangerous situation for children, who are especially vulnerable to pulmonary health problems. And in the age of COVID, it’s more important to ensure the quality of your indoor air is top-notch.

Here are some ways you can breathe cleaner air at home, presented by Riley Shaia Fitness.

Factors

Natural and man-made factors combine to create an unhealthy indoor environment. Synthetic fabrics which are present in upholstered furniture and carpeting, contribute to respiratory issues and can cause allergic reactions, ranging from red eyes to a chronically runny nose. Pet dander, common household dust, mold spores, and dust mites, which are present in most homes, require constant attention to cleaning and proper ventilation. However, bleach, chlorine, and formaldehyde are present in many widely used cleaning fluids and powders. Even common indoor air freshening products, such as plug-in air fresheners, emit a mix of chemicals that can be unhealthy and dangerous to individuals with asthma and other breathing-related issues. What can you do?  Try to buy natural fabrics as often as possible and choose cleaning products without harsh chemicals.

Pet Grooming

Pet dander is an ever-present problem in homes where dogs and cats live. Dander can cause asthma-like symptoms and make it difficult for many people to breathe freely. You can keep the problem under control by grooming your pet regularly, including brushing them outdoors, which gets rid of excess hair as well as accompanying dander. Vacuuming your floors regularly using a HEPA filter will also help reduce the presence of dander.

When you’re grooming your pet, take a closer look at your furniture. If you discover that it’s covered with hair, some stains, and a few unwanted odors, bring in a professional to bring your furniture back to life. Use sites like Angi.com to find the best upholstery cleaning compnay in your area, and remember to read reviews and check ratings. Although you can try to DIY this project, it’s probably best to leave this to the pros.

Air It Out

Central air and heating systems do a good job of regulating the temperature in our homes, and consequently, many people rarely open their windows. Yet, it’s very important to create a good flow of fresh air throughout the home. Five to 10 minutes a day can greatly reduce the presence of indoor air pollutants that accumulate in a closed environment. Make sure your air ducts are kept clean to prevent a buildup of mold spores and other indoor air pollutants. Allergies can be triggered by many factors, producing sneezing, rashes, or shortness of breath. Typically, allergic reactions are caused by the presence of pet dander, dust mites, and pollen.

Old or malfunctioning appliances in your home may also contribute to poor indoor air quality. For example, a poorly functioning refrigerator is more likely to release VOCs into the air and may be suseptible to mold growth as well (which is also harmful to air quality).

Go Green (with Houseplants)

Incorporating house plants throughout your home can improve the quality of the air you breathe. Many plants do a very good job of filtering harmful agents out of the air without any negative effects. For instance, spider plants can alleviate the presence of toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, benzene, and xylene. Aloe vera, golden pothos, and chrysanthemums are also effective natural indoor air “purifiers.”

Essential Oils

Essential oils have become a popular alternative for creating a freshened and pleasant-smelling indoor air environment. Substitute essential oil diffusers for commercial air freshening products, and spread the aroma of essential oils like tea tree oil, lavender, eucalyptus, clove, and rosemary throughout your home. Additionally, many natural oils have antibacterial properties and can reduce the presence of dust mites.

Many of the allergens and pollutants that are commonplace in your home can be kept under control by regularly cleaning, vacuuming, and airing out your home by opening doors and windows. It’s easy to do, and it’s an important investment in your children’s long-term health.