While it might feel more comfortable with the doors and windows closed and the curtains pulled tight, you still have to remember that the air quality in your home might not be the healthiest. While you might think that having everything closed up tight is protecting you and your family from pollen, pollution and other germs that gather outside, in reality, inside air can be just as bad or even worse for you, especially in the winter months.
So, while you’re thinking of gifts that your whole family can enjoy on Christmas, think about improving the air quality in your home for a start by following the tips below.
Start with your HVAC unit.
When searching for products for improving indoor air quality, you should start with your HVAC unit. Start by having a reputable AC technician come out and inspect your HVAC unit, your filters, and even the vents that your air comes through. Once he’s done his inspection, he’ll be able to tell you what you need to do to improve your air quality so that you and your family can breathe easier in your own home. He’ll also be able to suggest products to improve the air quality as well, such as indoor air cleaners and purifiers.
Let the outside air inside.
Since most heating and cooling units just circulate allergens, pollen, and other germs through the home, when it’s nice enough you should consider opening the doors and windows so that the fresh air can get into your house. It’s especially important to let the fresh air in if you’re painting a room, using a kerosene heater, or if you do hobbies like woodworking on the inside. Just make sure that you have screens on the windows so you don’t have pests fly in to bother you when you’re trying to get a good night’s sleep. There are also many other health benefits of getting fresh air, so don’t forget those as well.
Keep your home fresh and clean.
You already know that cleaning your house will keep germs and illnesses away, but did you know that keeping it clean will improve the air quality in the home also? Cleaning bedding and curtains often are important, as well as vacuuming carpets and rugs at least once a week with a good vacuum cleaner that has a high-quality Hepa filter. This is especially important if you have a family member who suffers from asthma or severe allergies. Keeping your home clean will improve the air quality and help you all breathe easier.
Make your home a no-smoking zone.
While you might feel that it’s rude to make family members and friends smoke outside, it’ll certainly make it easier for you to breathe in your own home. Second-hand smoke is known for releasing pollutants into the air, and it settles on your couch, walls, and carpets leaving an awful smell and making it even harder to breathe. Just politely tell your guests that smoking isn’t allowed in your house if they are truly your friends they will understand that you’re only protecting the health of your family.
Add air-filtering plants to your rooms.
Plants such as spider plants, bamboo, or even English ivy help to clean the air of allergens and toxins that make it hard to breathe. Not only do they help improve your oxygen levels in the house, but they also look amazing wherever you put them.
These are just a few of the ways that you can help your family breathe better at home by improving the air quality inside your house. Your family is your top concern, so good air quality is key to their health and happiness.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind