As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, many of us turn our attention to spring cleaning. But remember, this season is not just about decluttering closets and hosting garage sales. While you’re cleaning your house and scrubbing floors, don’t forget about indoor air quality guidelines. The air you breathe is just as important as the aesthetics of your home!
Indoor air cleaning plays a crucial role in our health and well-being, and spring is the perfect time to give it some extra attention. We’re here to help you optimize your indoor environment and monitor indoor air pollution for the new season. From reducing allergens to eliminating pollutants, we’ve got the top tips to ensure your home’s air quality is fresh and clean this spring.
- Ventilate and Let Fresh Air In
One of the simplest indoor air quality strategies anyone can do is to keep the home well-ventilated. Here are some hacks:
- Open windows
- Open entryways (during non-peak pollen times)
- Install exhaust fans
Opening windows and doors allow fresh air to circulate throughout your space. Of course, do it when environmental conditions allow. If it’s too dusty and high with pollen, keep it shut. Moreover, investing in exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens remove fumes, excess moisture, and unwanted odors.
- Clean Regularly
Buying all the IAQ products won’t mean anything if you don’t have a cleaning routine. Indoor air pollutants like dust, dirt, and pet dander can accumulate quickly, especially in the spring when pollen levels are high. Make sure to do the following:
- Do frequent dusting
- Vacuum your home regularly
- Don’t forget hard to reach spots like under the furniture
Doing this means you remove allergens from surfaces and carpets. And while you’re dust-busting, don’t forget to clean or replace air filters in your HVAC system. This cleans the air and ensures optimal performance.
- Control Humidity
Did you know that excess moisture in the air can lead to mold and mildew growth? The presence of these icky gunk makes the air musty and foul smelling. They can also affect your respiration and cause frequent illness. Optimize your home’s IAQ standards and use a dehumidifier to maintain a relative humidity level of around 30-50% in your home. Be sure to fix any leaks or water damage promptly to prevent mold growth.
- Invest in Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are effective IAQ solutions. These cutting-edge inventions remove airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen, and pet dander from your indoor air. Look for purifiers with an IAQ sensor and HEPA filters, which can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns.
Pro tip: Be sure to place the machine in high-traffic areas like living rooms and bedrooms for maximum effectiveness. And don’t forget to regularly clean filters.
- Monitor Indoor Air Quality
Knowledge is power is indeed power! Use an indoor air quality monitor like uHoo. Its advanced monitoring technologies with highly-sensitive indoor air quality sensors allow you to track key air quality metrics such as:
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Levels of pollutants
- VOCs
- CO
- CO2
- And more
All of the data is given in real-time, so use this information to make informed decisions. With proper knowledge, you can think of concrete steps on how to improve your indoor environment.
- Go Green and Add Greenery
Indoor plants not only add a touch of nature to your home but can also help improve air quality. Make sure you use the following plants, known for filtering impurities:
- Snake plants
- Peace lilies
- Bamboo palm
- Aloe vera
These are known for their air-purifying properties. Place a few potted plants around your home to help filter out toxins and pollutants.
- Choose Natural Chemicals
Many household cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can release harmful VOCs into the air. Opt for natural or eco-friendly cleaning products whenever possible to minimize exposure. Apart from store-bought organic cleaners, you can try what’s in your pantry:
- Lemon
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Pamper Pets and Their Areas
If you have furry friends at home, their dander and fur can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Those with allergies are particularly susceptible. If you can’t live without your fur babies, make sure you make time for the following:
- Clean pet bedding
- Vacuum floors regularly to remove pet hair and dander
- Immediately sanitize pet baby accidents
- Consider grooming your pets regularly to reduce shedding
- Clean paws after coming outdoors to prevent tracking dirt inside
- Manage their food bowls properly
These simple yet effective tips can help you say goodbye properly to winter and ensure that your home’s air quality is top-notch this spring. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can create a clean, healthy indoor environment. With uHoo as your ally, you and your loved ones can enjoy all season long. Here’s to breathing easy and embracing the freshness of spring with open arms!
