Clearning the Air: Ten Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality

When you think of air pollution, you probably focus your thoughts on problems like city smog. It might surprise you, then, to learn your lungs--and health--are more likely to fall prey to indoor air pollutants. These invisible impurities can irritate airways, worsen respiratory ills and increase symptoms of headache, fatigue, nausea and other health risks.

Some indoor air pollutants, like secondhand smoke, have gotten a lot of public attention. But according to the American Lung Association, there are a great many other indoor air pollutants. 


These indoor air pollutants can include:

• biological pollutants, such as molds, pollen, animal dander, viruses and bacteria
• combustion pollutants from stoves, furnaces, water heaters and fireplaces
• radon
• asbestos
• formaldehyde, commonly found in adhesives and bonding agents
• household chemicals

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency lists indoor air pollution as the fourth largest environmental threat to the nation. Prevalence of pediatric asthma and allergies has increased dramatically.

So what can be done? Here are 10 tips that can help improve indoor air quality, support body detox and improve the health of your family:

1. Change the filter in your furnace and air conditioner at least every 3 months and use a quality, high-efficiency filter.
   
2. Vacuum carpets regularly. When remodeling or building, consider other flooring. Carpets can harbor dust, dander and other allergens. Even the chemical fibers used in some carpets can be a concern.
   
3. Choose your candles wisely. Aromatherapy is increasing in popularity, but before you start filling your home with candles, keep in mind that conventional candles will actually contribute to air pollution in your home, not help the situation. Always select only clean-burning organic soy aromatherapy candles, which provide the benefits of aromatherapy while not contributing to indoor air pollution.
   
4. Don't allow smoking in your home. The hazards of second-hand smoke are well-documented. 
   
5. Use environmentally friendly cleaning products. Certain chemicals may really be tough on stains, dirt and grime, but they can also be damaging to your lungs. Do some research into natural and organic products that are just as effective.
   
6. Use a Himalayan salt crystal lamp to clear the air of electronic smog and other indoor air pollutants.
   
7. Replace particle board and pressed wood furniture with higher-quality pieces. Adhesives used in these more economical furniture styles often contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.
    
8. Use organic essential oils in a burner/warmer in place of harmful air freshener solids and sprays. 
   
9. Keep your space clean and dry. Leaky faucets or HVAC systems can cause water to puddle, leading to mold and mildew, which are major contributing factors to indoor air pollution. Likewise, keeping your home tidy will avoid molds and mildews, as well as dust, danger and other impurities from affecting your indoor air.
   
10. Bring in fresh outdoor air. When weather permits, open windows and doors, and operate window air conditioners and fans, to bring some fresher outdoor air into your home. Modern homes are often sealed tightly, so there is less opportunity for bringing fresh air indoors.
    

Your line of defense should include eliminating or reducing sources of indoor air pollution, as well as the use of air-purifying measures, such as Himalayan salt lamps, Himalayan crystal salt inhaler, essential oils for respiration support and improved ventilation of your home, allowing fresher airflow. 

There are many things you can do to improve your indoor air quality. The 10 steps above will get you started.

 

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Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. None of our products is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your treating doctor. The OM Shoppe does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional information expressed by The OM Shoppe are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition, see your physician of choice.