Indoor air pollution can be worse than its outdoor counterpart. Surprised? It’s hardly been brought up in reports, as opposed to how well-discussed outdoor air pollution has been through the years. There have been studies done that showed just how important it is for everyone to be mindful of the status of air inside their homes and office buildings. There are various sources for indoor air pollution, and quite a number of them are household supplies that you use every day or at least every week.
Here are some air pollutants found in your home that you might have overlooked:
- Beauty products
Things like your beauty soaps, shampoos, and make-up often contain ingredients with traces of toxic chemicals, as well as artificial fragrances. Particularly for spray-on products, these chemicals may find their way airborne, thereby adding to the air pollutants in your home.
- Molds
There are a lot of places in your home where molds could grow, so to get rid of them, check out any area that doesn’t get as much sun or ventilation. And to avoid them from cropping back up again, make sure to keep surfaces dry, and use dehumidifiers where necessary. Bathrooms, particularly, are favorite places for molds to prosper, so always have the exhaust fan on when you’re showering to have extra moisture exit out of the room and allow for surfaces to dry quicker.
- Paints and Finishes
Depending on the type of paint and finish that you use, they could contain harmful chemicals that might cause learning disabilities in children who inhale them.
- Dust collectors
Dust can settle and collect on any surface in your home, including your bed, beddings, tables, and shelves. Not only does dust make your home dirty, but it can also make breathing uncomfortable. Additionally, dust may be home to dust mites, which can cause discomfort and misery to those allergic to them.
- Pesticides
Insect sprays contain toxic chemicals that kill pests on contact, and these are components that you wouldn’t want to inhale. Reduce the use of pesticides at home by looking into more alternative ways to get rid of pests.
- Your pets
Dander and hair from dogs, cats, and other furry pets that you might have can add to the growing list of indoor air pollutants found in your home. Regular bathing and proper household cleaning are key for people who own pets and keep them indoors.
Ensuring that indoor air is both clean and healthy should be a priority, especially when you consider the effects of indoor air pollution to health. By eliminating or cutting back on the use of some household products, as well as replacing your HVAC system’s air filters regularly, you can minimize the amount of substances that pollute your indoor air, making it safer for you and your family to breathe in.
