Clearing the indoor air: Tips for a healthy home
When we think of air pollution, we often picture smoggy skies and car exhausts. But did you know that indoor air quality can be just as harmful? Many of us spend up to 90% of our time indoors, where pollutants from everyday activities quietly accumulate. They weave into the very air we breathe, affecting not only our physical health but also our emotional well-being.
UNDERSTANDING INDOOR AIR POLLUTANTS AND THEIR IMPACT
Imagine the air in your home as a delicate ecosystem, easily disrupted by a myriad of pollutants. These include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints, furniture, and cleaning products, as well as allergens like dust, pet dander, and mould. Additionally, gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) can linger. The presence of these pollutants can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and even impact cognitive function and mood over time.
THE ROLE OF FLOORING AND CARPETS IN INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Just as your choice of paint and furniture matters, so does your flooring. Some products can emit VOCs, especially right after installation.
When considering allergies, some might prefer hard flooring, assuming carpets worsen the situation. In reality, carpets act as natural air filters, capturing particles that would otherwise circulate in the air. This helps reduce airborne allergens, contributing to a cleaner, more breathable atmosphere. However, maintaining your carpets and rugs is essential. Without regular vacuuming, they can become havens for dust.
TIPS FOR IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY
We’ve gathered the most essential tips to help you enhance the air quality in your home.
- Choose materials wisely: Opt for low-VOC materials certified for indoor air quality. Look for products that meet environmental standards and certifications.
- Regular cleaning: Vacuum your floors frequently using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to capture fine particles effectively.
- Control humidity: Maintain optimal humidity levels (around 30-50%) to deter mould and mildew growth, which can worsen indoor air quality.
- Bring in fresh air: Open windows regularly to ventilate your home and allow fresh air to circulate, reducing the concentration of indoor pollutants.
- Use air purifiers: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to further clean the indoor air of pollutants.
PAVING THE WAY TO HEALTHIER LIVING
Creating a healthy home starts with making mindful choices about the products we bring into our living spaces. At ITC, we understand the importance of creating not just beautiful spaces, but also healthy environments. That’s why we design our carpets with your health in mind, focusing on minimising VOC emissions and enhancing indoor air quality.
For more insights into creating a healthier home environment, explore our blog posts on acoustics and comfort. These topics are also intertwined with overall well-being and can complement your efforts in enhancing your living space.
