Breathing Easy: Simple Hacks to Improve Indoor Air Quality This Spring
- Kenyon Kores
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
Indoor air quality often takes a hit during the winter months when homes are sealed tight to keep out the cold. As spring rolls around, it's the perfect time to refresh your indoor environment and ensure the air you breathe is as clean and healthy as possible. Here’s a comprehensive guide to improving indoor air quality with tried-and-true methods and a few out-of-the-box tricks.
1. Introduce Air-Purifying Plants
Plants do more than just beautify your space—they also act as natural air purifiers. Certain plants are particularly effective at filtering out harmful pollutants and releasing clean oxygen.
Best Air-Purifying Plants:
Peace Lily: Great for removing ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde.
Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue): Releases oxygen at night—perfect for bedrooms.
Spider Plant: Excellent for absorbing carbon monoxide and other toxins.
Aloe Vera: Absorbs formaldehyde and benzene, and serves as a handy treatment for minor burns.
Tips:
Place one medium-sized plant per 100 square feet of space for optimal air purification.
Dust plant leaves regularly to ensure they can efficiently filter the air.
2. Deep-Clean Carpets and Fabrics
Carpets, rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture all trap dust, pollen, and other allergens. Regular deep cleaning can make a noticeable difference in air quality.
Steps:
Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter at least twice a week.
Steam Clean Carpets: Steam cleaning helps eliminate trapped pollutants and dust mites.
Wash Fabrics: Clean curtains, pillowcases, and sofa covers every 2-4 weeks.
Use Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming to neutralize odors and break down allergens.
Out-of-the-Box Tip:
Invest in a vacuum sealer to store rarely used fabric items like seasonal blankets, reducing allergen accumulation.
3. Dust-Reducing Techniques
Dust isn’t just unsightly—it’s a mix of dead skin cells, pollen, pet dander, and other pollutants. Reducing dust can drastically improve your air quality.
Steps:
Use Microfiber Cloths: Unlike regular cloths, microfiber traps dust particles rather than dispersing them.
Declutter Surfaces: The fewer items you have collecting dust, the cleaner your air will be.
Change HVAC Filters Regularly: Replace filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak usage.
Seal Cracks and Gaps: Gaps around windows and doors allow dust to enter; caulking and weather-stripping can help.
Out-of-the-Box Tip:
Use an air purifier with a washable pre-filter. This catches larger dust particles before they reach the HEPA filter, prolonging its lifespan.
4. Natural Air Fresheners
Commercial air fresheners often contain harmful chemicals. Opt for natural options to keep your air clean and fresh.
DIY Natural Fresheners:
Essential Oil Diffusers: Lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint oils can purify the air while adding a pleasant scent.
Simmer Pots: Boil a pot of water with citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, and herbs for a natural, refreshing scent.
Activated Charcoal Bags: Place these in rooms or closets to absorb unpleasant odors and moisture.
Out-of-the-Box Tip:
Make your own gel air fresheners by mixing unflavored gelatin with essential oils and salt to act as both a scent provider and moisture absorber.
5. Additional Tips & Tricks
Leave Shoes at the Door: Prevent outdoor contaminants from spreading indoors.
Use Beeswax Candles: Unlike regular candles, beeswax emits negative ions that help purify the air.
Open Windows Strategically: When pollen counts are low, ventilate your space by opening windows for 10-15 minutes daily.
Salt Lamps: While studies are limited, many believe Himalayan salt lamps can reduce pollutants by emitting negative ions.
Out-of-the-Box Tips:
Household Electrostatic Cloths: Attach these to a broom or duster to pick up fine particles from hard-to-reach areas like ceiling corners.
Hydrogen Peroxide Spray: Lightly mist areas prone to mold or mildew to help prevent growth.
Conclusion
Improving indoor air quality is a blend of tried-and-true cleaning methods and creative hacks. By implementing these tips, you can breathe easier and enjoy a fresher, healthier home this spring.
Comments