Six tips to improve indoor air quality

As temperatures start to drop, we often keep our windows shut and turn the heat up. However, these cozy winter habits can lead to stale indoor air and irritant accumulations in our homes. While we usually think of air pollution as an outdoor issue, often caused by smog, wildfires, or fine particles, indoor air pollution can pose a significant risk, especially during the winter months when we spend most of our time inside. With less ventilation, irritants accumulate quickly, making indoor air quality one of the main concerns for health and comfort during colder months.

Health Concerns of Poor Indoor Air Quality

The Government of Canada cautions that even low levels of air pollution can negatively impact human health. Research has linked air pollution to various health conditions, increased hospital visits, and, in extreme cases, premature death. Poor indoor air quality, in particular, may lead to long-term health effects, increasing the risk of conditions such as:

• Respiratory issues like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and allergies
• Cardiovascular problems, including arrhythmia, heart attack, and high blood pressure
• Stroke

Immediate symptoms of poor air quality may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, sneezing, dry and irritated eyes, nose, or throat, fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. If these symptoms arise or worsen at home or in specific areas of your home, they may be caused by poor indoor air quality.

For those sensitive to allergens or prone to respiratory issues, indoor air quality is especially crucial. In winter, closed windows, stale indoor air, and heating systems can trap allergens and irritants, exacerbating asthma and allergy symptoms. Our immune systems are often more vulnerable in colder months, making healthy indoor air quality essential for well-being.

Simple Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality Naturally

Whether you’re managing pre-existing conditions that worsen each winter or aiming to prevent long-term health effects, the good news is that there are simple and effective ways to improve indoor air quality in your home.

1. VACUUM REGULARLY

Dust, dander, and other particles naturally accumulate on surfaces, and unfortunately, they are common irritants in our homes. This is especially true during winter when indoor air quality declines. To maintain a healthier home environment, regular vacuuming is crucial.

For the best results, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture even the smallest particles. Be sure to clean the vacuum filter regularly to prevent the spread of irritants. Don't just focus on high-traffic areas – vacuum all surfaces, including under the couch, to reduce hidden dust. Pay extra attention to carpets and upholstered furniture, where dust quickly builds up, and use the right vacuum attachments for a thorough cleaning. This simple step can significantly improve indoor air quality and help reduce allergens in your home.

2. CLEANING AGAINST DUST BUILDUP

In addition to regular vacuuming, it's essential to clean floors and surfaces with damp microfiber mops and cloths. Microfiber is especially effective due to its textile's extremely thin fibers, designed to trap dirt, dust, and even bacteria, preventing them from being spread around your home and therefore improving indoor air quality.

To reduce dust and allergens further, frequently change and wash your bed linens, pillow covers, curtains, drapes, tablecloths, and other textiles that can accumulate particles. Opt for a natural, fragrance-free laundry detergent to avoid irritation and keep your home's air fresh.

Conventional cleaning products often pollute indoor air, so choosing eco-friendly, natural cleaning products is essential. Look for VOC-free or low-VOC cleaners. VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, are chemicals that can quickly vaporize into the air, irritating your respiratory system and causing allergic reactions. Long-term exposure to VOCs can have serious health effects, which is why the Government of Canada recommends minimizing VOC exposure. By selecting low-VOC natural cleaning products, you can reduce indoor air pollution and create a safer home environment.

3. ACTIVELY AVOID HUMIDITY

Controlling humidity levels in your home is crucial for maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Excessive humidity can promote mold growth, and inhaling mold spores can irritate the airways, causing coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation. Long-term mold exposure can lead to reduced lung function and chronic respiratory conditions like asthma.

Always use your kitchen fan when cooking and your bathroom fan while showering to manage humidity effectively. Allow the fans to run for at least 30 minutes after use to ensure proper ventilation. Ensure both fans exhaust air outside, effectively removing excess moisture from your home and preventing mold buildup.

4. CHANGE AIR FILTERS, CLEAN AIR VENTS AND DUCTS

Regularly changing the filters in your kitchen and bathroom fans and your HVAC system is essential to prevent the buildup of dust and particles. Clean, dust-free filters are necessary to ensure that air is properly transported outside, and fresh air is brought inside. Otherwise, dirty filters can circulate irritants throughout your home, worsening indoor air quality.

Be sure to clean both indoor and outdoor air vents. Start by wiping down the exterior of the vent, then unscrew the cover and soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes. Use a sponge or cloth to clean it and a toothpick or similar tool to remove dirt between the vent slats. If your air ducts are dusty, consider scheduling a professional cleaning to eliminate trapped dirt and irritants, ensuring your home’s air stays fresh and clean.

5. LET THE FRESH AIR IN

Even during cold or dreary weather, it’s essential to open your windows wide several times a day to let stale air out and bring fresh air in. For optimal ventilation, open interior doors to allow air to circulate throughout your home, improving airflow and reducing indoor pollutants.

While many indoor plants are known for their potential to filter toxins and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, recent studies suggest their effectiveness in improving air quality may not be as significant as once thought. In fact, plant soil can harbor bacteria, pesticides, and mold, especially if overwatered, and plant leaves often collect dust that can irritate your airways.

Despite this, plants still offer numerous benefits for your home. If you have indoor plants, choose varieties that don’t emit VOCs, water them only as needed, and regularly wipe their leaves with a damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and particles. This simple step can help maintain better indoor air quality while reaping the other benefits plants provide.

6. SMELL GOOD NATURALLY

For the sake of your indoor air quality and the environment, avoid aerosol sprays, air fresheners, deodorants, and hair sprays, as they are often packed with VOCs. These artificial fragrances can irritate your skin and airways, negatively impacting your health. Whether it’s in your cleaning products, laundry detergents, or dishwashing products, remember that clean doesn’t have to smell! Opt for unscented or naturally scented alternatives, like those lightly scented with essential oils.

To naturally freshen the air in your home, consider using essential oils in a diffuser. Not only can essential oils like lavender promote relaxation, but citrus oils can help uplift your mood—without the harmful chemicals that could degrade indoor air quality.

Improving indoor air quality this winter doesn’t have to be complicated. Regular cleaning is essential to keep dust and allergens at bay, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. With AspenClean’s all-natural home cleaning service, you can schedule regular cleanings that fit your routine without worrying about bringing unwanted VOCs or other harsh chemicals into your home.

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