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Our degree of exposure to household allergens, irritants, and chemicals is far greater today than in previous generations. We generally spend more time indoors and our homes are far more airtight (and energy efficient) than in previous generations. The array of household pollutants has also increased over the past decade. The air quality in your home may be compromised by lead (in old paints and in house dust), radon, formaldehyde, fire-retardants, and a host of volatile chemicals found in a variety of fragranced products and from common household cleaners. Add to this mix a variety of allergens from microscopic dust mites, mould, and pet dander. Some pollutants are tracked into the home, while some arrive via new furniture, carpet cleaners, or a coat of paint on the walls.
There are several risk factors that can lead to indoor air pollution, and a full assessment of your indoor air quality could reveal a surprising array of indoor pollutants. A quick and inexpensive test of radon levels is a good way to start assessing your indoor air quality. Radon is a radioactive gas that has been linked to higher incidence of lung cancer. Radon comes from the natural decay of uranium found in nearly all soils and typically moves into your home through cracks and holes in the homes foundation. Granite countertops have also been linked to radon and should be tested.
Mould and Mildew can also be a significant source of indoor air pollution. To keep mould and mildew under control, you should keep your home’s humidity at a healthy level, between 30 – 50%. We must also be careful not to add any chemicals to the air. The chemicals used in air fresheners as well as the synthetic fragrances in laundry products emit dozens of different chemicals into the air. If the air in your home does not smell as fresh as it should, consider opening a window and letting in some fresh air rather than spraying a synthetic “air freshener”. Look for fragrance-free or naturally-scented laundry products and consider switching to milder organic cleaning products that do not include artificial fragrances. Also consider putting a stop to using aerosol sprays – deodorants, hair sprays, carpet cleaners, furniture polish, and air fresheners. Let the fresh air in! And it goes without saying, if your aim is clean air; make your home a no-smoking zone.
