On March 16, 2016

Improve indoor air quality all year long

Submitted

Mopping after vacuuming can remove any lingering allergens and improve indoor air quality.

(MS) As winter wears on, it’s not uncommon for people living in cold weather climates to experience some cabin fever. In addition to contributing to cabin fever, winter weather can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. While air pollution is something most often associated with densely populated cities, the air inside homes is not immune to pollution, especially during long winters when windows are often closed for months at a time. Though open windows in spring and summer can vastly improve indoor air quality, there are ways to ensure that air stays fresh and healthy regardless of the season.

Dirty floors are one of the chief contributors to poor indoor air quality. Dust, dirt, pollen, and pet dander can accumulate on floors, leading to poor air quality and potentially aggravating respiratory conditions such as asthma. When vacuuming, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which is a uniquely designed mechanical air filter that traps harmful particles. When you finish vacuuming, mop floors to gather any escaped dust or allergens.

Control indoor air moisture. Moist air is great for dust mites and mold, both of which are very bad for humans, so do everything you can to maintain healthy levels of indoor air moisture. Dehumidifiers can reduce indoor air moisture and control allergens, but it’s important to take additional steps as well. When bathing, try to keep a bathroom window open on a slight crack to prevent mold growth. When preparing meals in the kitchen, make use of your exhaust fan. In addition, don’t overwater houseplants, as they can become breeding grounds for mold.

Resist synthetic fragrances, such as those found in detergents and air fresheners, as they may be providing that welcoming scent at a heavy cost to a home’s inhabitants. Such fragrances may be emitting various chemicals, including volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, into the air, affecting indoor air quality and possibly even human health. When buying laundry products, look for those that are fragrance-free, also choosing home cleaning products that do not include any artificial fragrances.

Homeowners can take simple yet effective steps to ensure the air in their homes is healthy all year long.

Do you want to submit feedback to the editor?

Send Us An Email!

Related Posts

New Vermont fluorescent lightbulb restrictions begin in 2024

November 22, 2023
  Starting Jan. 1, 2024, a new state law will prohibit the sale of specific mercury-containing fluorescent lightbulbs in Vermont. Restrictions include the sale of general purpose, indoor/outdoor, residential, and business mercury-containing four-foot linear, compact fluorescent, and twist-based fluorescent lightbulbs. Twist-based (GU-24) Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs (CFLs) are also restricted from sale, according to a Nov. 14 news…

New business mentoring program matches energy professionals with business coaches

November 22, 2023
  Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund (VSJF) launches 18-month program pairing energy services business owners with business coaches to address workforce challenges, strategic planning and project management. VSJF, in collaboration with Efficiency Vermont and its Energy Excellence Network, is launching an advanced business assistance program for Vermont energy professionals. Starting in January 2024, a cohort of…

Property values soar, but overpricing proves costly 

November 22, 2023
Courtesy Nathan Mostroeni, Sotheby’s International Realty A  home on Trailside Drive in Killington was listed for $2.49 million on Nov. 20, just after a home on Trailsdie Drive broke a record in Killington, when it sold for $3.75 million.      By Katy Savage Housing prices continue to break records in Killington. In October, a…

Creating a biodiverse vegetable garden with flowers and herbs

May 3, 2023
By Nadie VanZandt When planning this year’s vegetable garden, consider companion planting with flowers and herbs. It’s a rewarding way to attract pollinators, manage pests and promote biodiversity in your garden. The practice will improve your soil’s health and the quality of your harvest. As an added benefit, you might enjoy gathering bouquets of fresh-cut…