The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that we spend 90% of our time indoors. As such, it’s important to monitor indoor air quality especially for those who suffer from asthma or allergies, as many allergens and asthma triggers lurk in homes. Here are eight ways to improve the air quality in your home:
1. Cockroaches – Cockroaches contain a protein that is a common allergen in many people and their droppings can trigger asthma attacks. Remove moisture in dark areas and limit open food sources. Don’t leave dirty dishes overnight, keep the kitchen clean, and cover trash cans. Use roach traps or call an exterminator if you have a serious cockroach problem.
2. Dust – Dust in homes contains dust mites which can trigger asthma attacks. Minimize the amount of dust in your home by vacuuming surfaces where dust and allergens accumulate. Remove stuffed animals and clutter from your bedroom. Wash your bedding on the hottest water setting.
3. Carpet – If you have carpeting in your home, make sure to clean it regularly as it can trap a large amount of dust and allergens. However, it’s better to have tile or wood floors that are easy to clean. Consider removing wall-to-wall carpeting in your home.
4. Furniture – Dust and allergens can easily get trapped in upholstery. Choose furniture that is easy to clean, such as leather sofas. Avoid furniture upholstered in woven fabric.
5. Mattress and pillows – Dust and allergens can easily get into mattresses and pillows. However, you can use special covers for mattresses and pillows that keep dust and allergens at bay. Sanitize old mattresses and pillows before covering them.
6. Pets – Animal dander is a common allergen that can also trigger asthma attacks. If pets cause your allergy or asthma attacks, keep them outside as much possible and bathe them once a week. Vacuum your home often.
7. Mold – As mold grows in damp areas, keep your home as dry as possible. Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity below 50%. Fix water leaks and dry wet areas immediately. Check out this link to learn what causes mold in homes.
8. Cigarette Smoke – If you have asthma, you should not smoke. Second-hand smoking is also dangerous as it can trigger asthma attacks. Ask smokers in your home to smoke outside and away from you.
Find out more ways to keep indoor air fresh and allergen-free in this article. Your heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays an important role in keeping indoor air healthy. But when and how often should you clean your air ducts? Click here for more information about air duct cleaning. For water damage repair, mold removal or air duct cleaning, contact your local PuroClean office.
