By Lettecha Johnson

Good indoor air quality (IAQ) goes beyond using some air freshener, as it involves a combination of low humidity, ventilation, nonexistent or pleasant odors, and low concentrations of pollutants. Controlling indoor exposure to outdoor elements also matters. Without clean indoor air, residents may experience health issues such as allergies, severe asthma attacks, congestion, dizziness, and throat irritation. 

With Americans spending as much as 90% of their time indoors between work, home, school, and cars, that’s a lot of potential exposure to indoor air with pollutants often several times more potent than those outside, per the EPA. Luckily, you can optimize your living space with certified cleaning products, sealing gaps, using kitchen and bathroom vents, and professional carpet cleaning.

Learn more about the steps you can take for improving indoor air, the common air pollutants to be aware of, and signs that your health is being affected. 

What Are Common Indoor Air Pollutants?

According to the EPA, common sources include tobacco products, household cleaning products, outdoor sources like pesticides, and combustion sources like gas or kerosene. Additionally, dust isn’t just a cleaning nuisance but a potential source of respiratory health disturbances in the majority of American homes.

Mold

Several American homes have mold or mildew lurking around, but Utah homes have some of the lowest levels and rank at #34. This nasty element thrives in damp environments like bathrooms, basements, attics, kitchens, and anywhere with high humidity.

In as little as 24 hours, mold spores can sprout on a wet surface, which is why it’s essential for homeowners to quickly address leaks and control humidity levels. Otherwise, residents may experience respiratory issues and trigger allergies due to mold spores circulating in the air.

VOCs

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can seep from cleaning products, furniture, paint, carpets, etc. Symptoms of exposure may include temporary throat irritation or something more serious, such as damage to the liver or nervous system.

Dust Mites

Dust mites can enter your home through pets, clothing, or outside air currents; some travel across continents by hitchhiking on people and luggage. They feast on dead skin cells that shed daily and occur in about four out of five American homes, according to the American Lung Society. 

Proper vacuuming with a HEPA filter, using allergen-proof covers over mattresses and pillows, and maintaining low humidity (they absorb moisture instead of drinking water) can control dust mite levels.

Outdoor Elements 

Utah may have stunning natural beauty, but as the Salt Lake Tribune reported in 2024, wildfires and phenomena like winter inversions can trap unhealthy levels of fine particulate matter. Shutting your home door or windows won’t automatically keep such toxins out when you have vulnerabilities like cracks and gaps.

How Do Carpets Affect Home Air Quality?

If you wear shoes inside, have furry friends rolling around, have mold from high humidity, and don’t use a proper vacuum with a HEPA filter, you may be stepping on a reservoir of contaminants. 

However, if you live in Utah, regular professional carpet cleaning from the specialists at TruRinse can help reduce the amount of pet dander, dust, VOCs, and mold these carpets release.

What Are Symptoms of Poor Indoor Air Quality?

KSL recently reported that Utah has seen a rise in flu cases and related hospitalizations. However, if you’re feeling under the weather, it may be due to poor indoor air quality instead of a virus you caught at work.

Symptoms include:

  • Headaches
  • Congestion
  • Dizziness
  • Allergies
  • Worsened asthma
  • Respiratory infections
  • Eye irritation 

What Steps Can Homeowners Take for a Healthy Home Environment?

Good indoor air quality tips that can make you breathe easier start with using your vents. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms to reduce humidity and vents over stoves to absorb smoke and other cooking fumes.

Schedule regular HVAC maintenance and consider ductless option upgrades. When the weather permits, get some fresh air by opening a window or door for about 20 minutes.

Check product labels for allergens. Avoid added fragrances and look for certifications like Green Seal, EcoLogo, or EPA Safer Choice.

Properly seal homes to prevent outdoor pollutants and pests from seeping in. Start around common areas like windows and doors.

Vermin infestations pose a threat, as their urine and fecal matter can spread airborne viruses like hantavirus. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should My Indoor Air Quality Be?

Carbon dioxide levels should be below 800 ppm. Once they increase over 1000 ppm, they can have an adverse effect on cognitive function, like decision-making, as well as sleep. 

Without fresh oxygen, it also makes it easier to spread viruses between others in the room. Since people breathe out CO2, it can build up without enough ventilation.

Can I Measure AQI with My Phone?

Thanks to apps and weather widgets, you can use your phone to measure your Air Quality Index (AQI). Some people use Apple Weather, AirNow, or IQAirVisual. However, these apps are best for outdoor air monitoring. 

There are designated smart home air quality monitors to consider. Some top picks from the Spruce include:

  • Temtop LKC-1000S+ Air Quality Monitor
  • Temtop M10 Real-Time Air Quality Monitor
  • Airthings Radon & Air Quality Monitor
  • AirKnight 9-In-1 Indoor Air Quality Monitor

One safety feature homes should include is a carbon monoxide monitor that can prevent fatal poisoning from this odorless and colorless gas.

Can Plants Improve Air Quality?

Absolutely. Some studies have proven that common household pollutants and toxins may be absorbed by certain houseplants. Plants are an effective means of improving air quality because they naturally release oxygen while taking in carbon dioxide as part of the photosynthesis process. 

In addition to carbon dioxide, they may also be able to absorb other toxins as well. A NASA study showed that the Warneck dracaena plant removed 50 percent of the formaldehyde in a sealed chamber. 

Some other useful plants include:

  • Bamboo palm
  • Boston fern
  • English ivy
  • Holy basil
  • Spider plant
  • Peace lily

Step Inside for Fresh Air 

Indoor air quality is essential for being able to think, breathe, and sleep peacefully. By using toxin-free products, practicing better cleaning methods, sealing gaps, and taking various ventilation steps, you can prevent the onset of respiratory infections and other viruses.

After all, your home is your castle, so make sure you have a space where your health can thrive for years to come.