17 Simple Ways to Improve Air Quality in Your Home

When you think of unhealthy air, you most likely don’t conjure up images of the inside of your home or office. But because we spend so much time indoors — especially in colder weather — keeping the air quality as clean as possible in your home, car and workplace is important for your health.

And, unfortunately, we bring most airborne irritants indoors ourselves.

Cigarette smoke

Experts say cigarette smoke is one of the most common indoor air irritants.

“The residual gas and particles from cigarette smoke that settle pose health hazards, particularly in rooms with a lot of fabric or carpeting,” says pulmonologist Sumita Khatri, MD. “We all have heard of second-hand smoke; this is called third-hand smoke.”

She says the risks are disproportionately high in children, who are more likely to be playing on the ground, and in people with chronic heart and lung problems.

Electronic cigarettes bring similar concerns, Dr. Khatri adds. The vapors emitted when someone smokes e-cigarettes contain volatile organic compounds, heavy metals and other chemicals linked to lung disease.

“Being smoke-free, including in the home, is your best approach,” she says.

Household cleaners

Household cleaning supplies can taint indoor air, as harsh chemicals in the products often give off fumes and odors that may irritate your nose, mouth and lungs.

“Those with sensitive lungs and upper airways, like people with asthma and chronic sinusitis, may notice their symptoms getting worse,” Dr. Khatri says.

The fumes can cause inflammation that can make it more difficult for people with chronic lung conditions to heal from infections. It can also worsen inflammation due to other triggers, such as allergies.

Dr. Khatri recommends using natural cleaning supplies and elbow grease to minimize risks.

Asthma or other chronic lung conditions also can be triggered by:

• Particulates from candles and incense
• Irritating perfumes
• Craft and office supplies, such as paints, glues and toner ink
• Fumes from dry-cleaned garments (many solvents used are carcinogenic)
• Allergens, such as mold, pollen, pet dander and dust mites
• Wood-burning fireplaces or stoves
• Improper ventilation, which can increase levels of radon and carbon monoxide gas
• Poorly ventilated gas stoves
• Older building materials with asbestos, formaldehyde and lead

Illnesses caused by unhealthy indoor air

Indoor air issues can increase a person’s chances of having flares of chronic lung problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

“In addition to worsening the symptoms of asthma and other chronic respiratory problems, particulates in indoor air can also irritate the nose, throat, eyes and lungs,” Dr. Khatri says.

There are also likely longer-term effects from ongoing exposure that are more difficult to measure, such as the likelihood of lung cancer from radon exposure, as well as secondhand and thirdhand smoke.

Role of ventilation and air filters

Although opening windows helps ventilate your home, car or office, that’s not always possible due to allergies or extreme temperatures.

Consider using air filters and getting your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems) checked regularly.

Also, air purifiers and aromatherapy can often make air quality worse unless they are the right kind, Dr. Khatri says. They need to be HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) air filters.

How to cut down your risk

Fortunately, there are ways you can improve the air quality in your home, car or at work to improve your health, Dr. Khatri says. Try these simple steps:

1. Avoid smoking indoors (but quitting smoking is the best answer for overall health)
2. Use craft supplies in well-ventilated areas
3. Make sure your gas stove is well-ventilated
4. Minimize clutter
5. Remove carpeting if possible
6. Use a dehumidifier and/or air conditioner to reduce moisture
7. Keep trash covered to avoid attracting pests
8. Remove shoes at the door
9. Have car emissions tested regularly
10. Minimize air freshener use
11. Test your home for radon
12. Use carbon monoxide detectors
13. Fix water leaks
14. Dust surfaces and vacuum frequently
15. Wash bedding weekly in hot water
16. Make sure exhaust fans are functioning in your bathrooms and kitchen
17. Keep a lid on scented candles