Reducing indoor air pollutants in your home

There are many sources of air pollutants in the home. These can range from biologic contaminants like dust mites and pet dander to chemicals found in everyday cleaning products. However, some can be more harmful than others.

Common culprits

Exposure to indoor air pollutants can cause and worsen respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks. It can also lead to diseases, such as lung cancer. The contaminants that have the most significant impact on health include:

• Secondhand smoke, such as smoke from the burning end of a cigarette or smoke breathed out by someone who smokes.

• Radon is a clear and odorless gas that can enter homes through structural or foundation cracks, plumbing and sump pump openings.

• Carbon monoxide, similar to radon, can't be detected without using electrochemical sensors. It can enter the home through malfunctioning gas-burning stoves, furnaces and water heaters, as well as wood stoves and fireplaces.

• Formaldehyde is released mainly by building materials like composite wood products, such as hardwood plywood, particleboard and medium-density fiberboard.

• Acrolein comes from heating cooking oil to high temperatures. It also comes from cigarette smoke.

• Respirable particulates are tiny particles that can get into the lungs through inhalation. Familiar sources inside are tobacco smoke and burning candles.

Mitigating toxic sources

You can create a healthier home and improve your indoor air quality by following these tips:

Reduce allergens

• If pets make allergy or asthma symptoms worse, avoid having pets or keep them outside. If that's not possible, consider limiting their access to areas of the home where anyone who has asthma or allergies sleeps.

  • Maintaining your pet's hygiene, such as frequently removing pet hair and dander, can help minimize triggers. Speak with a veterinarian for guidance on what's appropriate for your companion.

• Keep your home clean and dry. Wash bedding in hot water, store food and trash in closed containers and vacuum often. Use HEPA filters in your vacuum and air filters, and clean or replace them regularly. And choose window coverings that are easy to clean, such as wood shades or blinds.

• Don't allow anyone to smoke in your home.

Control moisture

• Fix leaks and other sources of moisture. Remove water-damaged materials.

• Make sure your clothes dryer vents to the outside.

• Use an exhaust fan in your kitchen and keep it clean. Use the bathroom exhaust fan or open a window when you shower. Make sure bathroom exhaust fans pull air outdoors and not into basements, crawl spaces or inside the house.

• Keep outdoor gutters and drains clear of obstructions to prevent water from building up and creating moisture inside.

Avoid problems from heat sources

• Get furnaces, water heaters and gas ranges checked every year. Make sure that the air intake and exhaust systems are adequate, and clean and seal duct systems.

• Don't use kerosene space heaters or unvented gas heaters as your primary source of heat. Also, don't use charcoal grills or portable camping stoves inside.

• Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

• Make sure wood stoves and fireplaces have tight-fitting doors. Get flues and chimneys checked and cleaned. Don't store firewood indoors.

Check household furnishings

• When shopping for new furniture or cabinets, try to avoid materials like particleboard, as it may contain irritating chemicals that emit gases and odors. Reduce furniture with fabric. When possible, replace it with leather, vinyl or wood.

• If possible, replace carpet with hard flooring. If that's not an option, consider carpet with a short nap or use area rugs that can be cleaned frequently.

  • Regular carpet and steam cleaning can also help reduce the presence of indoor pollutants.

  • Avoid wearing outside shoes throughout the home to prevent tracking in pollen or other contaminants.

• Call an expert if you have to remove lead paint. Do not sand or strip off the lead paint.

Be careful with household products

• Take care when using cleaning products, paints, solvents and pesticides. Try to use them outside if you can. When using them inside, open windows or use a fan to blow odors and fumes out of your home. Paint can release gases for months after you apply it. Look for paints that don't contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Do not mix cleaning products! Follow the directions on the bottle. Consider using safer cleaners such as soap and water or baking soda. A vinegar and water mix can be used to clean glass. Try to choose unscented and non-aerosol products.

• Avoid using chemical air fresheners and deodorizers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.