Indoor Air Quality

Good hygiene is highly related to the air around. In an air-polluted environment, people can never enjoy good health. A recent UN study has shown that in developed nations, people spend about 90 per cent of their time indoor and 65 per cent of that at home. Poor indoor air quality can have a significant impact on people’s lives, especially those who are the most vulnerable namely infants and children, pregnant women, elderly people and those who have chronic illness. Steps can be taken to help improve indoor air quality at home, in workplace and other closed environments. Green cleaning products, air purifiers are handy in cleaning up atmosphere. But those are not always risk free. Some green products and air purifiers generate toxic gases, which are very harmful. Ozone based green products or air cleaners are not advised for use.

Introducing plants to reduce the levels of air pollution is only minimally effective. Experts advise introducing toxin-consuming plants in indoor set up. Some plants like philodendron, spider plants, golden pothos, peace lilies, bamboo palms, mums and English ivy have the potency to remove harmful toxins from the air, but at extremely low rate. Instead use of natural household cleaning products and natural pest control techniques, regular cleaning of the vents of the kitchens and minimal indoor smoking can reduce air pollution. Excessive use of humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air-conditioners and refrigerators are harmful for indoor air hygiene. Gas appliances should be regularly serviced and central heating system inspected and cleaned regularly. Do not keep your car idle inside the garage for a long time. Test your home for radon. Radon can seep into the house from contaminated earth and rock under the home or from building materials, sometimes heaped outside. Scientists lay stress on human cleaning process to keep the indoor air free from pollutants.