When most people hear the phrase “air quality,” they tend think about outdoor pollution, rather than the air quality level of their homes. And while your lungs may not be directly exposed to smoke or toxic chemicals inside your living space, you may still be at risk of harmful indoor pollutants that can affect you and your family’s health, especially during the winter months when we typically shut ourselves inside to stay warm.

Dust, for example, can contain plenty of irritants while household-cleaning products may carry harmful chemicals that cause respiratory problems in the future.

Luckily, there are a few simple tricks to implement at home that may help you improve its air quality.

4 Steps to Better Air Quality at Home

1.) Tidy Up Your Floors: In addition to collecting dirt and dust, household floors can become breeding grounds for chemicals, pet dander, and pollen. According to NationalAllergy.com, “Using anti-allergy vacuums with a true HEPA filter can trap 99.97 percent of airborne particles…” Many brand vacuum cleaners include a built-in HEPA filter to help you reduce indoor allergies and the spread of germs.

It’s also recommended that you remind kids and family members to leave their boots at the front door to prevent them from tracking in mud, dirt, or other germs into your home.

2.) Invest in An Air Purifier: This tip comes from Harvard Health Publishing and may benefit anyone in your family who’s living with allergies. While an air purifier won’t remove allergens completely, it can make a huge difference in capturing dander and reducing irritants within your living space.

3.) Change Your Air Fresheners: If you’re using air fresheners to mask odors or introduce a new fragrance into your home, try to avoid using aerosol sprays that can emit harmful chemicals. Instead opt for more natural odor eliminators like lemon and baking soda.

4.) Welcome More Indoor Plants: Certain houseplants can help improve air quality, such as pot mums, spider plants, or bamboo palm: “Through photosynthesis, [plants] convert the carbon dioxide we exhale into fresh oxygen, and they can also remove toxins from the air we breathe,” (TIME).

Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality this Winter

When it comes to your home’s indoor air quality, Burnsville Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., can help you find the best solution. Our team of specialists will help you ensure your home’s environment is healthy and breathable for every member of the family. Contact us to learn more about our air quality services, products, and support.