The EPA ( Environmental Protection Agency ) have presented a thorough information on the quality of indoor air and the health risks an indoor air pollution can bring. To understand the issue surrounding this matter can truly help you take a proactive step in having a cleaner air to breathe. Indoor air pollution happens when particles are released in the air, causing health problems. This can be brought about by poor ventilation, or having not enough indoor air to dilute all these particles and pollutants that wreak havoc in our bodies. Humidity and high temperatures can also help the increase of indoor air pollutants.
Where Do These Indoor Air Pollutants Come From?
There are many sources of indoor air pollutions, namely: oil, kerosene, wood, coal, gas, tobacco, insulation containing asbestos, wet or damp carpet, pressed wood furniture or cabinets, heating or cooling systems, household cleaning items, personal items, or humidifiers. Outdoor air pollution can be caused by radons or pesticides. When a household item is deteriorating or malfunctioning, it can contribute to indoor air pollution. For example, a loose nozzle in your gas stove can leak dangerous carbon monoxide, which can be fatal in huge amounts. Also, cleaning solutions or solvents like paint strippers and other pesticide-containing products can also bring in air pollutants. Add to these the factor of having poor ventilation, these indoor air pollutants can grow and pose serious health problems. If you live in a humid and hot weather, you are at greater risk.
What are the Health Risks of Being Exposed to Indoor Air Pollutants?
Ten Natural Ways on Having A Better Quality of Air to Breathe
1. Stop using plug-in or any artificial air fresheners which contain harmful chemicals
2. Using natural, essential oils to give your indoors a fresh scent, minus the chemicals
3. Having more ventilation by opening the windows to allow fresh air to come in
4. Shopping green products for cleaning your home
5. Regularly cleaning your indoor space to get rid of dust mites, molds, mildews, animal dander, and other indoor air pollutants
6. Using plants and baking soda to filter your indoor air
7. Avoid ionizing products that may raise indoor ozone levels that can trigger your asthma
8. Make sure the filters of your home air-conditioning unit are clean
9. Choose green furniture, appliances, flooring, walls, and many more
10. Surround your indoors with live, indoor plants
Know that the ill effects of indoor air pollutants may take years before it will show. Lessen your risk of repeated exposure by being an informed consumer and always go for natural ways to bring health inside your home. When your home is the top place where your family feels safe, make sure that it truly stays safe with having a purer air to breathe inside. Love Your Green Living!
