Our homes should be our safe place. A haven to relax, unwind and enjoy family time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. So it probably comes as a surprise to learn that poor indoor air quality could pose a danger to your health.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. You can improve your indoor air quality by making a few simple changes.
Cleaning Products
When was the last time you checked the ingredients in your cleaning products? Cleaning sprays, bleach, and disinfectants all contain harmful chemicals.
You may think you’re keeping your house free from illness with your cleaning routine, but any toxins lingering in the air from the cleaning products have the potential to harm your health.
An easy way to stop chemicals hanging around is to store all your cleaning products, including mops, cloths, and sponges, in your garage or shed away from the house. You could also substitute hazardous cleaning solutions with more eco-friendly alternatives, such as vinegar, baking soda, and soap and water.
Teflon Pots and Pans
Nobody likes scrubbing pots and pans, which is why non-stick cookware is a fabulous way to save time washing up.
However, there’s more to the Teflon coating than you might think. When heated to high temperatures, Teflon releases toxic chemicals into the air, such as polytetrafluoroethylene. Research has shown that these chemicals can cause flu-like symptoms and significant health concerns.
Always check the manufacturer’s details on your cookware and try to avoid Teflon-coated products. It’s important to replace Teflon-coated cookware when it shows signs of wear, such as scratches or peeling.
Craft Supplies
If you have kids, you’ll know that crafting is an excellent way to help them learn while keeping them entertained. Painting, drawing, cutting, and sticking enable creativity to flow.
Of course, you need an array of craft materials to create masterpieces: glue, marker pens, paint, and adhesives.
The problem is, craft supplies release toxins into the atmosphere and pollute your indoor air. That’s why it’s always best to take crafting activities outdoors where there’s plenty of natural ventilation or switch to non-toxic, water-based craft supplies.
Air Fresheners
We all love a fresh-smelling home. Perhaps you have your favorite scented candle or plug-in freshener. Air fresheners can harbor dangerous VOCs and other toxic substances, however, some of which contribute to asthma, migraines, and neurological problems for some individuals.
Instead of opting for traditional air fresheners, use a range of natural products to leave your home smelling sweet. For example, bunches of herbs and fresh flowers will leave your indoor air smelling lovely without the toxins.
So, where’s the chemical going? The perchloroethylene slowly disperses into your indoor air — the air you and your family breathe in.
If you must use dry cleaning services, always hang your clothes in the garage for a few days after collection to prevent the chemicals affecting your indoor air quality.
But have you ever stopped to think about the effect of smoke on your inside air?
Although a fire looks lovely, the fine particles of smoke linger in the air. Breathe in these particles over a long period of time, and it can lead to respiratory diseases and even heart disease.
A good way to reduce smoke escaping from the fireplace is to ensure the flue is fully open. Burning dry seasoned wood also reduces smoke.
Tobacco Smoke
We’re all aware of the harmful effects of smoking. But, the fact is, passive smoking or secondhand smoking also poses a serious threat to your health.
Smoking indoors releases nicotine particles into the air, which can cause breathing difficulties, especially in children. The EPA states that there is no risk-free level to secondhand smoking.
There’s a simple fix to prevent tobacco smoke from polluting your indoor air — stop smoking. Your home will smell better, tobacco won’t stain the interior yellow, and your family won’t be at risk of passive smoking-related diseases.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality With a Ventilation System
Ventilation systems and air conditioning can help improve the indoor air quality of your home. In addition, investing in quality air filters that capture dust and fine particles helps keep your indoor air pure.
Air scrubbers also reduce the levels of pollutants in your home. Some air scrubbers are even powerful enough to filter out bacteria and viruses.
Looking to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality? Call Moore Home Services
The experts and technicians at Moore Home Services know how important indoor air quality is. Call us today and find out how we can help!
