Clean air tips

* The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency affirms that indoor air often contains 2-5 times (and sometimes more) the amount of certain pollutants as outdoor air-indoor air quality is a major cause for concern. The average person spends at least 90% of his or her life indoors, and 65% of it at home. Problems with indoor air quality have lead to an increase in conditions known as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) and Building Related Illness (BRI).

• Some of the factors affecting indoor air quality include ventilation, chemical contaminants, and biological contaminants. The conventional building practice of making homes increasingly air-tight has compounded indoor air quality problems, not only by trapping indoor pollutants within the structure, but also by adding yet more pollutants. Conventional particle board, plywood and some types of foam insulation can contain formaldehyde, a suspected carcinogen and one of the most common VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Drapes and textiles may also contain formaldehyde. Polyurethane foam used in cushions, mattresses, and pillows can cause bronchitis, skin and eye problems, and can also release toluene diisocyanate, which can produce severe lung problems. Naturally occurring chemicals such as radon and carbon monoxide pose a very real threat to air quality and health as well. Radon in the home is a major cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking. Carbon monoxide poisoning accounts for several hundred deaths annually in the United States. Biological contaminants such as mold, mildew, dust and dust mites can aggravate asthma, allergies and dermatological conditions, cause general problems with breathing, and weaken the immune system. High temperature and humidity can increase the concentration of certain pollutants.

[edit] Clean Air Tips

• Ventilate: Air circulation will help existing toxic materials to off-gas more quickly.

• Eliminate chemicals which off-gas VOCs.

• Maintain built structures and the appliances within them to guard against threats from radon and carbon monoxide. Simple, inexpensive radon test kits and carbon monoxide detectors can tell you whether you need to bring in professional help to assess your mitigation options. Keep in mind that your water source may also need to be tested if radon is detected in your home.

• Eradicate biological contaminants by controlling temperature and humidity, cleaning regularly with non-toxic cleaning agents, and allowing natural sunlight to penetrate your home to inhibit growth. Using hygroscopic materials helps to regulate humidity, as these materials will absorb excess moisture, and then re-release it into the air as conditions change.

• Clean your air with the 100% Recyclable, Energy-Efficient AirPod, which is also so compact that you can take it everywhere you go or with the Air purifier for Allergy Sufferers and Mouldy rooms which is effective against bacteria, viruses, spores, airborne allergens, mould and also dust mites – both the allergens they release and the fungus they feed on.

• Air fresheners are a waste of money and can fill your home with toxic chemicals. Just open the windows! Houseplants will help purify the air too.

• Remove up to 87% of indoor pollution within 24 hours with a spider plant!

• Paint tips

• Use green cleaning products

• See Chemicals in the home tips