How to Improve Indoor Air Quality: Essential Tips for a Healthier Home

Indoor air can be filled with various pollutants that affect health and comfort. Here are some of the most common indoor air pollutants found in homes:

In addition to natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation systems such as exhaust fans, air conditioning systems, and whole-house ventilation systems provide consistent airflow and help trap pollutants. These systems are especially helpful in homes with poor ventilation or damp areas prone to mold growth, making it easier to maintain good air quality.

Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters are highly effective at capturing airborne pollutants such as dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and other small particles. By trapping these allergens and contaminants, HEPA filter air purifiers help clean indoor air, making it safer and more breathable, especially for those sensitive to respiratory triggers like pollen or animal dander. Portable air cleaners can also be placed in high-traffic areas to improve air quality in specific rooms.

Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% is essential for controlling moisture, which can help prevent mold growth and reduce the presence of dust mites. Dehumidifiers or air conditioning systems in damp areas, like basements or bathrooms, help regulate excess moisture and promote healthier indoor air. Keeping these areas dry and free from excess moisture can significantly reduce indoor allergens and enhance indoor air quality.

Regularly vacuuming floors, carpets, and furniture with a HEPA filter helps reduce dust, pet hair, and other allergens that contribute to poor indoor air quality. In addition to vacuuming, dusting surfaces, especially around electronics and vents, prevents allergens from becoming airborne, making indoor air cleaner and more pleasant. This can also improve ventilation by ensuring air ducts remain clear of buildup.

Many conventional household cleaning supplies release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, negatively impacting indoor air quality. Choosing natural, non-toxic cleaning products or fragrance-free alternatives can limit the release of harmful VOCs, provide cleaner indoor air, and reduce respiratory health risks associated with chemical exposure. This small change can lead to significant improvements in overall air quality and comfort in your home.

Certain houseplants have unique air-purifying properties that help improve overall air quality, making them excellent choices for clean indoor air. Here are some popular, easy-to-maintain plants known for filtering indoor air pollutants:

When choosing plants to improve indoor air quality, opt for easy-care varieties that act as effective air purifiers. Spider plants, pothos, and snake plants are visually appealing and require minimal light and water, making them ideal for busy households.

Select plants that are safe for families with pets or young children, as some plants can be toxic if ingested. These natural air filters can be placed throughout the home to enhance overall air quality.

Many everyday household items, like candles, air fresheners, and cleaning products, release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can degrade indoor air quality and pose health risks. Natural, unscented products can help limit exposure to these indoor air pollutants.

Minimizing the use of scented air fresheners and opting for fragrance-free or low-VOC cleaning products can prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals indoors and allow you to enjoy cleaner, fresher air.

Pets can bring joy to a home but also contribute to indoor air pollution through dander and allergens. Here are some simple tips for reducing pet dander:

For severe pet allergies, prescription treatments can provide more comprehensive relief and are usually recommended by an allergy specialist.

Replacing air filters every 1-3 months is vital for keeping HVAC systems running efficiently and maintaining good indoor air quality. A clean air filter effectively traps common pollutants like dust, pet dander, and small particles, preventing these contaminants from recirculating in indoor spaces.

This step is especially important in homes with pets, as hair and dander can accumulate quickly, affecting both indoor air quality and HVAC performance. Choosing high-efficiency filters, such as HEPA filters, can further enhance the system’s ability to remove indoor air pollutants.

Over time, air ducts can collect dust, mold spores, animal dander, and other indoor allergens, contributing to poor indoor air quality. Occasionally cleaning air ducts ensures that pollutants are removed and reduces the risk of mold growth, which can thrive in damp areas within ducts.

Cleaner air ducts also support better airflow throughout the home, making it easier to circulate fresh air and improve ventilation. Regularly cleaning ducts contributes to a healthier environment and keeps the HVAC system functioning optimally, further supporting improved indoor air quality.